By Kent Gray
The UAE’s oldest bank is backing the Emirates Golf Federation’s (EGF) push to make golf the game of a lifetime for UAE nationals.

Mashreq Bank has come on board as title sponsor of the Emirates Golf Federation’s 2019–2020 United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Monthly Medals.

Starting October 26, the EGF will host six events across four emirates. The medals are stableford affairs were all competitors must an official handicap. In addition to the open men, ladies, junior and senior divisions, the EGF has added a Par 3 division at each event to give players in the EGF Junior Development Program the opportunity to “compete and socialise with the other UAE golfers.”

“It is an honour for Mashreq Bank to sponsor the 2019-2020 Emirates Golf Federation tournament in the UAE,” said Ibrahim Al Mheiri, CEO of Mashreq Al Islami & Head of UAE National Segment at Mashreq Bank.

“Events such as these are not only a great way to create a sporting legacy here in the UAE but also a source of pride for UAE nationals. Through our involvement with the Emirates Golf Federation, we aim to foster a culture of sporting excellence in the country and provide a platform for UAE golfers to excel in their professional careers.”

Yas Links Abu Dhabi will host the first event of the season on Oct. 26. The EGF will also call at Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club, Al Hamra Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai Hills before their season-ending championship at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club.

“This platform is perfect for Mashreq Bank and their networking and business relations with UAE Nationals. The bank will be exposed to a wide verity of nationals from different ages and genders,” said EGF Secretary General, Khalid Mubarak Al Shamsi.

“The EGF is looking to use this sponsorship to grow the participation at these events while developing the opportunity for UAE nationals to learn or enhance their golf game. By having a strong brand such as Mashreq Bank affiliated to these events we are excited at the EGF to see how this will impact our season.”