For irrefutable proof, check out the stellar cast already assembled for the 3rd edition of the Saudi International or the $1.5 million prize-fund the LET’s finest recently played for, also at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club.

Yet Golf Saudi’s plan to use golf to inspire the next generation and as a vehicle for Saudi’s wider ‘Vision 2030’ socio-economic transformation runs much deeper than attention-grabbing European Tour and LET events.

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The latest proactive move has seen Golf Saudi strike a partnership with The Club Managers Association of Europe (CMAE) designed to “discover the future leaders of golf in Saudi Arabia”.

Both organisations will collaborate on a multi-level, certified Arabic language educational programme designed to encourage Saudis to pursue a career in the game.

“CMAE will define, develop, design and deliver a custom-made education platform in Saudi Arabia, drawing on its industry-renowned approach to optimise national access to the most definitive education and qualification opportunity in the game,” Golf Saudi said in a statement.

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“The strategy will feed into CMAE’s existing Management Development Programme and certification criteria, assisting Golf Saudi in delivering its core human resources targets of growing the domestic golf talent pool and ultimately creating new Saudi National Certified Club Managers. “

Golf Saudi CEO Majed Al Sorour says the partnership is a key tenant in Saudi’s long-term strategy to ensure a legacy of golf in the Kingdom.   

“At Golf Saudi, we want to be a catalyst for transformation by becoming one of the most innovative golf markets in the world. This is only possible if we are able to upskill our domestic workforce,” said Al Sorour.

Golf Saudi and Saudi Golf Federation CEO Majed Al Sorour.

“Golf is good for business and can provide a direct boost to the Kingdom’s GDP, as well as providing lucrative jobs and creating new enterprise. These are exciting times for the golf industry in Saudi Arabia and this agreement with the CMAE helps us to develop a world-class and modern training programme, which will support young Saudi adults in unlocking the full potential of their future career paths within the golf industry.

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“The future of the game lies with the young and if we are to succeed, we need to convince as many young men and women as possible to believe that a future career in golf is as viable, as it is attractive. By providing access to the necessary skills, qualifications and training in Arabic, we will ensure the jobs in our growing golf industry are a perfect complement of qualified, expert Saudi Nationals and international specialists.”

CMAE’s Director of Education Torbjörn Johansson hailed Golf Saudi’s vision.

“Golf Saudi’s pursuit of creating a progressive domestic golf market is asking some big questions of the industry and leading organisations,” Johansson said.

“CMAE has worked to develop a unique strategy that factors in local nuance whilst providing access and opportunity for those inspired to embark on a journey in the golf industry. The domestic plans to not only train up but facilitate and equip aspiring talent is a major step and CMAE is proud to be a partner and on-hand to provide the tools and analytic expertise to elevate the educational uptake and qualification of Saudi Nationals.”

The post Golf Saudi strike partnership to inspire next gen onto the golf career pathway  appeared first on Golf Digest Middle East.