In an exclusive interview, Akram Skaik, the Director of the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), shed light on the Federation’s initiatives, partnerships, and future plans to elevate the standard of golf in the UAE.

Skaik emphasised the importance of grassroots programs, noting that the EGF’s primary focus has always been on nurturing local talent from a young age. He highlighted the success of players like Ahmad Skaik, who started with the Federation and progressed under its guidance.

“Ahmad began taking lessons a few years ago and has received full support from the EGF,”

Skaik explained, adding that this type of commitment is provided to many young players who show promise.

The EGF’s goal is not only to foster individual talents but to promote golf as a sport throughout the UAE. Skaik believes that nurturing a broad base of talent is key to elevating the sport nationally.

Strategic Partnerships for International Exposure

One of the standout aspects of the EGF’s strategy is its partnership with the European Tour, which allows national players to compete in international tournaments. Skaik explained that these partnerships are vital for player development, as they expose Emirati golfers to high-level competition abroad.

“By having that partnership, we exchange spots internationally for our players to compete and understand how it feels in a big field in Europe,” Skaik noted.

This international exposure helps players learn how to navigate the pressures of top-tier golf, which is essential for their growth on the global stage.

Empowering Women in Golf

Skaik also highlighted the EGF’s ongoing efforts to promote women’s participation in golf. Although details were brief, supporting female athletes is a significant part of the Federation’s mission. The EGF is actively working to create opportunities for women to thrive in the sport, both locally and internationally.

Technological Innovation in Training

As golf becomes increasingly data-driven, the EGF is integrating advanced technologies like Trackman to enhance player performance. This technology allows golfers to analyse their swings and make data-backed improvements. Skaik mentioned that these tools are a ‘jewel’ in their training process, showing how vital technology has become in modern golf coaching.

Mental Toughness: The Underrated Factor

While physical skills are essential, Skaik was quick to mention the importance of mental toughness in golf. He suggested that psychological readiness is often the deciding factor in high-stakes situations.

“There’s a lot of psychology involved in golf, especially at the professional level,” he stated, emphasising that mental preparation is just as important as physical training.