The Evolution of Golf in the Middle East: The Prosports International Journey

10.56am 4th June 2025 – As we delve into the world of golf in the Middle East, we find a narrative woven through passion, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the sport. Back in the early 1990s, the Middle East was a mere curiosity for golf enthusiasts. With few golf courses and even fewer golfers, the idea that the arid desert would transform into a global golfing hotbed seemed far-fetched. However, amid this backdrop, Prosports International was quietly laying the foundations that would change the game forever.

The Birth of a Vision

Founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Saeed Mohamed Hasher Al Maktoum, Prosports International emerged as one of the region’s first dedicated golf distributors and retailers. The company played a pivotal role in capturing the burgeoning interest in golf, catalyzing its spread throughout the UAE and beyond. As the company celebrates its 30th anniversary, Sheikh Saeed reflects on the serendipitous beginnings that sparked this remarkable journey.

A Chance Encounter on the Greens

The seeds of Sheikh Saeed’s golfing passion were planted during an ordinary evening at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, where a casual dinner transformed into an unexpected love affair with golf. "People often ask how I first got into golf. The truth is that it all started by chance," he recalls. It was here that he and his business partner, Ara Nakhnikian, were introduced to the sport, leading to a shared enthusiasm that would soon evolve into a thriving business venture.

Dubai’s Forward-Thinking Spirit

During the formative years of Prosports International, the golf scene in Dubai was still in its infancy, making the decision to invest in the sport a bold but optimistic one. Sheikh Saeed emphasized how Dubai’s vision has always been about looking forward, even in its earliest days. He reflected on a time when the city primarily thrived on trade rather than oil, illustrating its entrepreneurial spirit. This foundational philosophy of trust and integrity has been instrumental in building Prosports’ solid reputation.

Growing the Game and Supporting Local Talent

A point of pride for Sheikh Saeed is the dedication to supporting Emirati golfers from the onset. He fondly remembers the early days of collaboration with Ismail Sharif, the first professional Emirati golfer, highlighting a commitment to nurturing local talent beyond the realm of publicity. “You help because you care, not because you want credit,” he notes. Today, other Emirati players, like Ahmad Skaik, are making history, a testament to how far the sport has come in the UAE.

Transforming the Golf Landscape

As golf matured in the UAE, Prosports International became instrumental in servicing not only the new generation of pros relocating to Dubai but also in fostering the sport in meaningful ways. Reflecting on key milestones, Sheikh Saeed recalls a critical moment around 2011 when the DP World Tour Championship faced jeopardy due to financial constraints. Stepping in with proactive support, Prosports secured vital sponsorship and ensured the event’s survival, paving the way for future successes.

Retail Operations and Community Engagement

Expanding further, the company now operates several large Golf Superstore shops across the region and works closely with various club pro shops. Sheikh Saeed describes the mission of Prosports as not just business-focused, but as a genuine partnership with clubs and customers. “It’s about serving both the clubs and the customers,” he explains, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in their operations.

A Unique Business Philosophy

At the core of Prosports’ success lies a simple yet powerful philosophy: integrity and authenticity. Sheikh Saeed attributes the ease of doing business in the UAE to minimal bureaucracy and a culture built on mutual respect. “Even now, I think the UAE is unique. Every nationality lives here together peacefully,” he states, capturing the essence of Dubai’s multicultural landscape.

Future Aspirations and Entrepreneurial Wisdom

Looking ahead, Sheikh Saeed expresses confidence in the continued growth of Prosports International and the evolution of the golf landscape. He emphasizes the importance of staying attuned to new trends and technologies within the sport. For aspiring entrepreneurs, his advice is straightforward yet profound: “Be honest, be consistent, and respect the people you work with.” This ethos encapsulates not just his journey but is also a guiding principle for future generations.

A Light-Hearted Legacy

And on a lighter note, Sheikh Saeed shares a humorous anecdote that adds a whimsical flavor to his story. Long-standing rumors about suggesting crocodiles as a hazard on the 18th hole at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club bring a smile, illustrating the playful spirit that has accompanied the serious business of building a golfing legacy.

Reflecting on three decades of transformation, Sheikh Saeed fosters a deep sense of pride in how far both he and the golf community have come—from those early par-3 laughs to a thriving, internationally recognized golfing hub in Dubai.