The MENA Golf Tour has announced two high-profile appointments as part of a strategic push to cement its status as the premier development pathway for professional golfers in the Middle East and North Africa.
The tour confirmed on Tuesday that General Abdullah Al Hashmi, President of the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), has joined its Board of Directors. In a simultaneous leadership move, industry veteran Mark Bull has been appointed as the tour’s new Tournament Director.
General Al Hashmi, a former fighter pilot in the UAE Air Force, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the regional game. His appointment follows his recent election as Vice Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC).
He joins a board that includes Chairman and Commissioner Keith Waters—the former DP World Tour Chief Operating Officer—and principal investor Donna Benton. Al Hashmi’s track record includes successfully bringing elite international events to the UAE, such as the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship and the World Amateur Team Championships.
"This Tour represents a vital pathway for talented golfers across the Middle East and beyond," General Al Hashmi stated. "I look forward to working alongside Keith and Donna to further elevate its status on the global stage."
New Tournament Director Mark Bull brings over 18 years of leadership in the golf and leisure sectors. Based in Dubai, Bull’s career includes senior roles at prestigious venues such as Celtic Manor Resort and Jumeirah Golf Estates. Most recently, he served as General Manager of 59club Middle East & Africa.
The timing of these appointments is critical as the tour prepares for the Egypt Golf Series, a four-event swing launching on January 19 at the New Giza Golf Club.
The MENA Golf Tour remains the only Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) recognized circuit headquartered in the Middle East.
| Feature | Details |
| Total Events | 12 Tournaments |
| Egypt Series Purse | $400,000 (Total) |
| Standard Event Purse | $100,000 |
| Ranking Eligibility | OWGR and WAGR Points |
"We are thrilled to welcome General Abdullah to the board and Mark as our tournament director," said Keith Waters. "These appointments significantly strengthen our ability to deliver on our ambitions... providing a clear pathway for golfers to reach the global stage."
The upcoming Egypt swing will see players competing across four consecutive weeks, offering intensive competition and a gateway to higher-tier tours through the MENA Golf Tour's formal progression discussions with the DP World Tour.
