The prize money for the tournament has been raised to $100,000 (Dh367,292). The tournament, part of the International Tennis Federation’s (ITF) women’s circuit, will be held between December 10-17. It is the 19th staging of the event and will be held at Habtoor Grand  Resort, Autograph Collection.

Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Al Habtoor Group chairman and founder of the tournament, said: “I am passionate tennis player myself and in 1998 when I founded the Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge, I gave my personal pledge to support women’s tennis in the region and worldwide.”

In previous years, former world number one Jelena Jankovic and current world No 3 Simona Halep have competed for the title.

Kyra Nagy, a former champion and now tournament director, added: “Last year, we had over 200 participants and this year we expect an equal or higher number of registrations.

“By upgrading the tournament to the highest category under the ITF ranking system, main draw players will receive a tax free on site prize money of $100,000 plus free accommodation in our five-star hotels.”

The tournament draw and press conference are set to take place on December 11 at the Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection. For player registration inquiries, you can email tennis@habtoorhospitality.com.