Golf in United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
Desert resort golf you reserve as a guest
City-resort courses sell tee times to travelers. You book like a hotel spa. Membership exists; visitor golf is still the week. The setting is the trip.
- Guest tee times
- Resort booking
- Courses worth flying for
The vibe
Pristine emerald fairways carved straight out of coastal salt flats and desert sand create a surreal, championship-level contrast of green against gold. Teeing off during the comfortable winter months delivers the best conditions, well away from the searing heat of summer. The entire experience feels slick, welcoming, and effortlessly managed from club drop to the final green.
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Dubai
Dubai
Vladimir Yaitskiy / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This historic course is famous for its iconic clubhouse, modeled after traditional dhow sails. The layout features beautifully manicured fairways and water hazards that run alongside the Dubai Creek.
Access. Located in the heart of Deira, Dubai; easily accessible from the airport and city center.
Notes. A classic destination that offers a more traditional, lush feel compared to newer desert courses.
Emirates Golf Club, Dubai
Dubai
7777777kz / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Home to the iconic Majlis Course, this venue is the centerpiece of professional golf in the Middle East. It features lush, rolling fairways set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dubai Marina skyline.
Access. Located in central Dubai, easily accessible by taxi or metro; open to visitors with advance booking.
Notes. Best played between October and April; strict dress code applies.
Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
Dubai
dunes123 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Home to the Earth Course, designed by Greg Norman, this destination is famous for hosting the DP World Tour Championship. It offers a premium, parkland-style experience within a desert environment, known for its pristine conditioning.
Access. Located in the Jumeirah Golf Estates community; accessible via private car or taxi.
Notes. High-end facility with strict handicap requirements for certain tees.
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
Adman Payne / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Designed by Gary Player, this is the region's first oceanfront course, offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It is a unique 'ocean-desert' hybrid that integrates natural dunes with high-end resort play.
Access. Located on Saadiyat Island; accessible by car from Abu Dhabi city.
Notes. Watch for the local wildlife, including gazelles that roam the course.