Golf in the Arab world is experiencing a milestone transformation, driven by ambitious investments, a surge in grassroots, and the emergence of world-class tournaments. But while the region has attracted some of the sport’s biggest names and a growing fan base, a critical piece of the puzzle has been missing – a clear, structured, tournament-led ranking system to identify, develop, and elevate homegrown talent.

The Arab Golf Federation (AGF) is now filling that gap with the launch of the new Arab Golf Series (AGS) and its official ranking system, and the timing couldn’t be better. This game-changing initiative is designed to unify amateur competition and create a crystal-clear pathway for rising talent all the way to the very top, with the ultimate ambition of delivering a future Arab champion on golf’s global stage.

Founded with the mission to grow the game across the Arab world, the AGF represents the interests and ambitions of 17 national federations. A driving force to elevate the sport, foster the development of amateur and professional players, and increase access to the game for future generations. Beyond competition, the Federation is committed to promoting the sport at the grassroots, increasing participation, and securing the-long term sustainability of golf in the region.

With the Middle East leading a regional golf revolution—hosting elite tournaments, investing in grassroots golf, and championing player development at all levels—the AGS provides the missing link: a system that allows the region’s amateurs to track their progress, earn opportunities, and compete against the biggest and best names in world golf.

For the first time, Arab golfers will have a standardised, points-based system to rank their performances, just like the professional tours and aligned with global standards. The AGS assigns points to rising amateurs based on three key factors:

• Strength of field – High-caliber events will carry more ranking significance

• Number of players – Larger, more competitive field increase point values

• Consistency of performance – Strong results over multiple events equal stronger points

More than just a ranking, the system serves as a launchpad. For example, a young golfer from Riyadh who consistently performances in AGS events can now establish their status, earn invites to elite regional and international tournaments, and open doors to the global stage.

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The 39th Qatar Open Amateur Golf Championship, held at Doha Golf Club from February 20-22, 2025, marked the official launch of the AGS ranking system. To those involved, the tournament wasn’t just another amateur event; it was a turning point.

For the first time, a regional tournament implemented the AGS ranking system, awarding points that will shape the AGS’ first official standings. With a strong field of amateur golfers from across the Arab world, the event showcased emerging talent and set a precedent for how the ranking system will influence competitive golf in the region.

Qatar’s own Saleh Al-Kaabi took full advantage of this new era of regional golf, showcasing exceptional skill to top the leaderboard – and secure a strong opening footing on the AGS rankings – with a one-stroke victory in front of a home crowd.

With visions now firmly set on the future, the AGS will expand with a full regional schedule, including tournaments such as the Cedars Golf Championship at Al Zorah Club in Ajman, UAE, the Pan-Arab Ladies & Juniors Championship in Egypt, and the Jordan Open. The growing calendar will provide more players with ranking opportunities, increasing visibility and competitive depth across the region.

Beyond individual tournaments, the real impact of AGS will be seen in how it reshapes golf’s ecosystem in the Arab world. By providing a unified competitive structure, it will make talent identification more seamless, improve the region’s standing in international golf, and inspire the next generation of Arab Golfers to pursue the sport at the highest levels.

The Launch of the Arab Golf Series and its ranking system marks a defining turning point for the sport in the region. With a clear pathway for amateur players, the AGF is ensuring that talent is not just recognised, but actively championed.

For Saudi Arabia, this initiative is particularly significant. With world-class tournaments, a growing base of young talent, and Golf Saudi’s commitment to long-term development, the country is positioned to become one of the most influential forces in global golf.

As the AGS unfolds over the coming seasons, it could very well be the catalyst that produces the first wave of Arab Golfers to truly compete on the world stage. What was once a distant dream is now a structured, achievable reality – and the future of Arab golf has never looked stronger.