Dubai: The Ultimate Golfing Destination

Golf has earned its spot as a favorite place across the world. In the world of golf, few places blend championship-level play, luxury living, and all-round sunshine quite like Dubai. With its flawless fairways, architectural brilliance, and rich lifestyle offerings, the city has firmly positioned itself as one of the premier golfing destinations on the global map. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, Dubai offers an unmatched golfing experience.
Why Golf is Booming in Dubai
Dubai’s enduring bond with golf is rooted in more than just the sport itself — it’s about the experience. The city’s world-class infrastructure, vibrant hospitality scene, and beautiful weather make it the perfect playground for golf enthusiasts. It’s also a hub for international tournaments like the DP World Tour Championship and the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, drawing elite players and global audiences, and boosting tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.
World-Class Golf Courses & Communities
Let’s explore some of Dubai’s most iconic golf courses and the unique communities and experiences they offer:
1. Emirates Golf Club – Where It All Began
Founded in 1988, Emirates Golf Club was the first grass golf course in the Middle East. Today, it’s an icon in the region’s golfing world.
• Majlis Course: Designed by famous architect Karl Litten, this championship course hosts the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and combines a desert landscape with lush fairways for a scenic yet challenging round. Famous golf champions like Tiger Woods, Rory Mcllroy and Ernie Els have performed on this 72 par course.
• Faldo Course: Named after golfing legend Sir Nick Faldo, this floodlit course allows for evening play and features elevation changes and tricky hazards.
Beyond Golf:
• State-of-the-art golf academy, expansive driving ranges, and event spaces for weddings and corporate functions.
• Dining: Enjoy French Mediterranean flavors at Carine, casual bites at the Pool Bar, or coffee and pastries at Roseleaf Café.
• Awards: Best Recreation Sport Facility (SPIA Awards 2024), and multiple F&B accolades for venues like Jones the Grocer and Carine.
⸻
2. Jumeirah Golf Estates – Championship Living
Designed by golf legend Greg Norman, Jumeirah Golf Estates is home to two world-renowned courses:
• Earth Course: Host of the DP World Tour Championship, this course features the challenging “Golden Mile” final holes and scenic design.
• Fire Course: A rugged, desert-inspired layout offering a completely different feel with strategic bunkering and wide-open fairways.
Top Features:
• The Tommy Fleetwood Academy, one of the most advanced training centers in the region.
• Dining: Choose from gastropub vibes at Crafty Fox, Italian at Bussola, Indian tapas at Kasturi, or BBQ at Tap & Grill.
• Residential options within the estate offer luxury villas, townhouses, and apartments for those wanting to live close to the green.
3. The ELS Club – Desert Links with a Touch of South Africa
Located in Dubai Sports City and designed by the Open Championship & US Open Winner Ernie Els, The Els Club offers a desert links-style course with rolling fairways and lush greens.
• Training Facilities: Home to the Butch Harmon School of Golf and CH3 Performance Academy, ideal for players aiming to fine-tune their game.
• Country Club: Includes an urban-chic gym, family pools, Padel courts, and coaching academies for various sports.
• Dining: Dine at the Big Easy Winebar & Grill, inspired by ELS’ South African roots, or unwind at 261 Bar & Restaurant with course views and comfort food.
4. Trump International Golf Club – Grand Scale Golfing
Set in the heart of Damac Hills, this course, designed by reknowned golf course architect Gil Hanse, is spread over 500 acres of championship-level terrain with luxury facilities.
• Highlights: Dramatic barrancas, multi-tee layouts for all skill levels, and a floodlit 9-hole Par 3 course for casual night play.
• Facilities: A high-tech Golf academy, luxury clubhouse, and exclusive member benefits like discounted stays at Damac Hotels.
• Dining: From gourmet meals at Prato to live sports and games at 71 Sports Bar, and casual eats at Caddy Shack Drive-In.
Additionally, the members of the club can avail exclusive room rates at Damac Hotels & Resorts by showing their membership cards.
5. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club – Waterfront Elegance
One of Dubai’s most scenic and historic courses, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club offers championship play with views of the city skyline and creek waters.
• Peter Cowen’s Golf Academy: One of the region’s best, offering expert coaching for all levels.
• Leisure: Features a vibrant yacht club, mini-golf for families, and top-tier restaurants.
• Dining: Enjoy waterfront dining at Boardwalk, a relaxed ambiance at Lakeview, and gourmet options at Jones the Grocer.
Live Where You Golf: Top Golf Communities in Dubai
Dubai’s golf courses aren’t just about play — they’re part of fully integrated lifestyle communities:
• Emirates Hills: Ultra-luxury living with golf course views.
• Jumeirah Golf Estates: A favorite for investors and residents alike.
• Damac Hills: Modern living around Trump International Golf Club.
• Dubai Hills Estate: A newer community with a beautiful 18-hole course.
• Arabian Ranches: A laid-back, family-friendly community with its own golf course.
Golf in Dubai: A Lifestyle, Not Just a Sport
Dubai has elevated golf from a game to an experience. Whether you’re teeing off under the stars, dining in award-winning restaurants post-round, or enrolling your kids in elite golf academies, Dubai offers it all. Add to that the seamless blend of sport, social life, and luxury, and it’s clear why the city remains unmatched as a golfing destination.
Ready to explore real estate in Dubai’s top golf communities? Contact Fluence Properties to learn how you can make this luxurious lifestyle your everyday reality.