The 18th Xerox Corporate Golf Challenge, one of the oldest corporate tournaments in the region, will begin and end at the brand new Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman.

The first qualifier of 2016 will be played at the recently opened Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and the series will then return to the 7,169-yard course in December for the Grand Final.

The Xerox Challenge has, since its first year when it hosted three qualifiers in 1997, become a highly popular addition to the GCC’s golfing calendar. It also visited South African for two qualifiers last year – in Johannesburg and Stellenbosch.

In the 2015 series, more than 1,300 golfers took part and the organisers have revealed that number is expected to be crossed easily this year with up to 16 qualifiers scheduled for the 2016 series.

Andrew Horne, general manager, Xerox Emirates, said: “We are delighted to announce the latest season for the Xerox Challenge, and we are very pleased to welcome Ajman Tourism as the Host City Sponsor for 2016’s Grand Final.

“We also welcome Devere Acuma and Chrysler as new sponsors of the Challenge.”

Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD) sees aligning with the tournament as a strong platform to promote sports tourism and are confident it will elevate the profile of the new golf course.

Faisal Al Nuaimi, general manager of ATDD, said: “We are proud to be the Grand Final Host City. This is a major amateur golf series across the GCC and South Africa, and we are confident that it will attract a large number of golfing enthusiasts to both the series and to the Emirate of Ajman.”

For 2016 qualifier dates, locations and more information, visit www.xeroxcgc.com.