For any sport to grow at a grassroots level, it is essential that senior members of the local community support its development, but equally as important is their personal interest in the sport itself. Abdullah Al Naboodah, Chairman of Phoenix Capital, the title sponsor of this week’s inaugural DP World Tour event in Ras Al Khaimah, fits that bill perfectly and has been one of the most prominent figures behind the local golf scene for close to 20 years.
“This is a historic week for the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah as we welcome the DP World Tour and some of the world’s best golfers for the first time, having previously hosted the Challenge Tour on three occasions,” said Al Naboodah.
“The transformation of the game in the region has been massive. Just look at the courses that have been built out here, the golf tourism as well as domestic golf numbers. The UAE has a significant inbound golf business as well as domestic audience.
“We extend our sincere thanks to Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi for his vision in bringing the DP World Tour to Ras Al Khaimah, while we also thank the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority for helping bring the eyes of the golfing world to this wonderful part of the world.”
Al Naboodah and his businesses’ long-term support of golf in the region includes helping build Emirates Golf Club, the first grass course in the region, as well as sponsoring a number of players and junior programmes.
“At Phoenix Capital, we strive to uphold the same values that make a great golfer — honesty, integrity, and sportsmanship,” said Al Naboodah. “This is why we are committed to supporting this wonderful event, promoting golf’s appeal to fans around the world and providing a further showcase for golfers to visit the UAE and the Middle East as a whole. I will continue to support junior golf development in the UAE. They’re the future and I love to see UAE players progress.”
