So you’re looking to play golf at some of the best courses in Dubai? Cool, us too - when are we teeing off? Only half kidding... you’ve come to the right place.
Dubai is a hub of some of the best golf in the world. Often consisting of wide fairways and greens that roll true - otherwise known as millionaire golf… and while you don’t have to be a millionaire to play at these courses, you’ll probably be paying a bit more than you would at your local course in your hometown.
But, there's good news. Whether you're a scratch golfer, or just starting out, these courses are sure to give you lush fairways, stunning views, and a round of golf you won’t forget.
Reader's Digest
- In our opinion, the best round of golf is at Dubai Hills Golf Club - we explain our reasoning later in the blog if you wanna give it a read.
- While it's on the pricier side, playing Earth at Jumeirah Golf Estates will have you feeling like a pro, or the worst golfer in the world. But... #WorthIt
- If you're wanting to play at championship level courses, our pick is Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
How Many Golf Clubs Are in Dubai?
According to the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), there are 14 golf clubs in Dubai. Depending on the golf club, there are either 1-2 courses you can play, as well as a par 3 course that will scratch the golf itch if you don’t feel like playing a full round of 18.
What is the Best Golf Course in Dubai?
Choosing the best golf course in Dubai is highly dependent on design, amenities, difficulty, and condition of the course - which can all be subjective. However, there is one course that stands above the rest. In our opinion, the best golf course in Dubai is the one and only, Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club.
8 Dubai Golf Courses You Need to Play At
From lush fairways to stunning views, we've scoped out the best Dubai golf courses that you absolutely gotta play at! Here’s our favorites, in no particular order:
Jumeirah Golf Estates: Earth Course
Truthfully, after DP World... who wouldn't want to play a round on this course? Teeing off at Jumeirah Golf Estates' Earth Course is like stepping into a golfer's paradise sculpted from the sands of Dubai. Designed by the legendary Greg Norman, this course offers an unparalleled golfing experience through dunes and lakes, challenging your skills at every turn. Pro tip: Make sure your bunker game is on point before teeing off, this is after all, the desert.
Quick Facts
- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Greg Norman and Tad Burnett
- Founded: 2009
- Course Type: Parkland
- Tournament Course?Yes, DP World Tour
Emirates Golf Club: Majlis Course
Before Dubai was, well... Dubai, this masterpiece golf course was designed and created in the heart of the city. It's actually wild to see some of the photos at this golf club. You can see just how little development had happened around the city when they decided to build and create Emirates Golf Club. If you only have time for one round of golf in the city, this is where it should be at. It's also the home of the Desert classic, where some of the top pros in the world compete for the distinguished trophy.
Quick Facts
- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Karl Litten
- Founded: 1988
- Course Type: Links Style
- Tournament Course? Yes, Dubai Desert Classic
Emirates Golf Club: Faldo Course
We like to think of this course as the cooler brother of the championship course, Majlis. Faldo, The Wadi', taken from the Arabic word for 'valley' is a flood lit course, meaning that if you've got too many plans during the day in Dubai, you can play this course till late with 18 holes under the lights. Dynamic and unforgiving at times, this course is definitely worth the money and will give you the ultimate Dubai golf experience.
Quick Facts- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Nick Faldo
- Founded: 1996
- Course Type: Links Style
- Tournament Course? No
Dubai Creek Golf Club
If your ball has a magnet for water, you may want to avoid a round at Dubai Creek. With that said, it could also be the best and most scenic round of your life. This championship course will offer you a memorable journey from the first tee to the 18th green. Tommy Fleetwood and Rory Mcilroy went head to head here during the Dubai Invitational 2024, showing just how unforgiving the 18th hole can be.
Quick Facts
- Par: 71
- Who Designed It: Karl Litten
- Founded: 1993
- Course Type: Desert Style
- Tournament Course? Yes, Dubai Invitational Golf Tournament
Montgomerie Golf Club
Even if you didn't grow up in Dubai, this course will give you a sense of comfort, feeling like your just steps away from your home... or mansion in this case. Nestles next to Emirates Hills, Montgomerie (AKA Monty's) is a course with wide fairways, generous staff, and some short par 4's thrown in there for you to really feel like a pro. If you're looking for a "Personal Best" on a course, Monty's is the move.
Quick Facts
- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Colin Montgomerie and Desmond Muirhead
- Founded: 2002
- Course Type: Links Style
- Tournament Course? No
Dubai Hills Golf Club
Go for the golf, stay for the roast. Dubai Hill Golf Club is a golfers paradise. With great fairways and a serene backdrop against the iconic Dubai skyline, Dubai Hills will make you ask yourself why you haven't or didn't move to Dubai sooner. And when you've finished your round, enjoy a nice roast and beer at the iconic Duck Hook.
Quick Facts
- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Gary Johnston and Troon Golf
- Founded: 2018
- Course Type: Desert Style
- Tournament Course? No
The Els Club
Pegged as an "Augusta like quality" for playing surfaces, The Els Club, located in the heart of Dubai Sports City, is the go-to destination for many European tour players. And not to mention, this course features the "Lions Den" at holes 9, 10, and 11. This three hole stretch challenges even the most talented players, with the club offering recognition for those who can make it through under par. So if you're ready to test your skills, the "Lions Den" is the place to do it.
Quick Facts
- Par: 72
- Who Designed It: Ernie Els
- Founded: 2007
- Course Type: Inland, Links Style
- Tournament Course? No
Trump International Golf Club
Drive just a short bit towards the desert, to Damac Hills specifically, and you'll come upon Trump International Golf Club. These greens are fast and the rough is thin, challenging you at all fronts to land chips clean and to putt with precision. But we all like a challenge right? Trump International Golf Club is an all round golf experience, and beyond that, the changing rooms and club house are top notch.
Quick Facts
- Par: 71
- Who Designed It: Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner
- Founded: 2017
- Course Type: Links Style
- Tournament Course? No
Where to Book a Round of Golf in Dubai?
Nearly every course in Dubai can either be booked online or by calling the pro shop. That said, there are some apps that offer exclusive deals for golf rounds and can get you a better pricing than the course itself. Check out our socials to see which ones we are talking about! (ig:sandiegolfdxb)
Dubai Golf Course FAQs
How Much Does a Round of Golf Cost in Dubai?
Great question. An 18 hole round of golf in Dubai will vary from course to course, the time of year, as well as the day of the week. In general, courses can range anywhere from 400 AED to 800+ AED on the weekday and 600+ AED on the weekend. Guests rates are also available if you're invited by a member.
Note: These prices are subject to change and highly dependant on the time of year, course, and day.
Can You Play Night Golf in Dubai?Yes! There are a few courses around Dubai that are flood lit, allowing players to play past sunset. These include the Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club, Meydan Golf at The Track, and the front 9 at Trump International Golf Club.
Can Tourists Play Golf in Dubai?Of course tourists can play golf in Dubai! Not that its a silly question, but yes. Courses are open to everyone.
Is it Too Hot to Play Golf in Dubai?I guess it depends on where are you from and what time of year you want to play in Dubai. Generally speaking, the late summer, winter, and early summer months are great times to play golf in Dubai. That said, when the temperatures rise, the prices drop, so weigh your options.
Can You Drink Alcohol on Golf Courses in Dubai?Yes, you can drink alcohol at every course in Dubai.
