His Majesty Sheikh Saeed Mohamed Hasher Al Maktoum used vision, passion, and a three-decade dedication to turn the United Arab Emirates into a major golf force in the world:
From Casual Golfer to Golf Pioneer
A chance round on the par‑3 course at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club ignited Sheikh Saeed’s lifelong passion for golf—even though he’d never played while studying abroad. In 1995, he turned that passion into Prosports International, one of the region’s first dedicated golf retailers and distributors.
Establishing a Golf Ecosystem in the UAE
With more than 31 outlets, Prosports helped launch well-known brands like Greg Norman, FootJoy, Ping, and Titleist, among others, making premium gear widely available in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain. The company also became integral to club pro shops and merchandising at leading venues like Emirates, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, and The Els Club.
Nurturing Local Talent
Sheikh Saeed personally supported Ismail Sharif, the UAE’s first professional Emirati golfer, from early on—“We helped because we cared, not for publicity”. This support blossomed—Emirati golfers like Ahmad Skaik are now making waves on international tours.
Anchoring International Competitions
Sheikh Saeed and Prosports intervened to salvage the DP World Tour Championship during 2011–12 when sponsorship problems arose, obtaining infrastructure support and sponsorship with Nakheel. This support helped entrench the UAE as a global tournament hub, with the European Tour’s regional HQ at Jumeirah Golf Estates
Business Ethos: Trust & Excellence
Sheikh Saeed emphasizes the traditional Dubai values of trust, integrity, and relationship-driven business—“no shortcuts, no grey areas”. Prosports today is the region’s leading golf retailer and distributor, known for high-quality service and strong club partnerships.
Establishing a Golf Ecosystem in the UAE
With more than 31 outlets, Prosports helped launch well-known brands like Greg Norman, FootJoy, Ping, and Titleist, among others, making premium gear widely available in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain. At prestigious locations like Emirates, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, and The Els Club, the company also became essential to club pro shops and merchandising.
Developing Regional Talent
From the beginning, Sheikh Saeed personally backed Ismail Sharif, the first professional Emirati golfer in the United Arab Emirates—”We helped because we cared, not for publicity”—all around the world. Emirati golfers like Ahmad Skaik are now making waves on foreign tournaments as a result of this backing.
Anchoring International Competitions
Sheikh Saeed and Prosports intervened to salvage the DP World Tour Championship during 2011–12 when sponsorship problems arose, obtaining infrastructure support and sponsorship with Nakheel. With the European Tour’s regional headquarters located at Jumeirah Golf Estates, this backing helped solidify the UAE as a major venue for international competitions.
Company Culture: Excellence & Trust
Sheikh Saeed places a strong emphasis on the ancient Dubai values of honesty, trust, and relationship-driven business—”no grey areas, no shortcuts”—all around the globe. Today, Prosports is the top golf distributor and retailer in the area, renowned for its solid club relationships and excellent customer service.
Legacy and Prospects
Sheikh Saeed’s journey from par-3 enthusiast to industry leader has revolutionised golf in the United Arab Emirates over the past three decades, fostering talent development, organising international events, and innovating retail. Prosports International continues advancing, exploring new retail experiences and digital engagement to stay ahead in a booming golf market.
In summary, Sheikh Saeed’s personal passion laid the groundwork; his company built the infrastructure; and his leadership ensured the UAE became a global golfing hub—leaving a legacy of growth, inclusion, and excellence.
