Key Takeaways
- The UAE is home to several globally ranked golf courses, including Emirates Golf Club, Yas Links, and Jumeirah Golf Estates.
- Annual memberships range from AED 20,000 to AED 55,000, with green fees varying by course, day, and membership level.
- Courses cater to all levels of golfers, offering a mix of traditional, links-style, and desert layouts with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Abu Dhabi and Dubai remain the dominant golfing hubs, but emerging clubs in Ras Al Khaimah offer value and serenity.
- The UAE’s golf scene is intertwined with lifestyle and relocation appeal, drawing professionals and families seeking sun, luxury, and leisure.
Tee Shot: Introduction
The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself as a world-class destination for golf enthusiasts. With year-round sunshine, luxurious facilities, and a selection of globally renowned courses, the UAE offers an unparalleled golfing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, the region’s golf courses cater to all skill levels, blending challenging designs with breathtaking scenery. Here, we explore the best golf courses in the UAE, focusing on membership fees, green fees, global rankings, and the unique features that set them apart.
1. Emirates Golf Club – Majlis Course
Location: Dubai
Global Ranking: Consistently listed among the top 100 golf courses worldwide.
The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer. Designed by Karl Litten, it was the first grass course in the Middle East and remains an icon in the golfing world. The course hosts the annual Dubai Desert Classic, attracting top professionals from around the globe.
- Membership Fees: From AED 45,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 995 (weekday), AED 1,200 (weekend).
The Majlis Course offers challenging water hazards, rolling fairways, and stunning views of Dubai’s skyline, providing an unforgettable experience.
2. Abu Dhabi Golf Club
Location: Abu Dhabi
Global Ranking: Frequently ranked among the top 50 in Asia.
Home to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, this Peter Harradine-designed course is a favourite for its lush greenery and iconic falcon-shaped clubhouse. The challenging 18-hole layout is complemented by state-of-the-art practice facilities.
- Membership Fees: AED 30,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 895 (weekday), AED 1,095 (weekend).
The course's manicured greens and strategic bunkers provide an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels.
3. Jumeirah Golf Estates – Earth Course
Location: Dubai
Global Ranking: Hosts the DP World Tour Championship, one of golf’s premier events.
The Earth Course, designed by Greg Norman, is a masterpiece of golfing architecture. Known for its dramatic bunkering and white sand hazards, the course is as visually stunning as it is challenging.
- Membership Fees: AED 55,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 950 (weekday), AED 1,150 (weekend).
Golfers are treated to a picturesque experience with lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant greenery framing the course.
4. Yas Links Abu Dhabi
Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Global Ranking: Ranked among the top 50 courses globally by Golf Digest.
As the first true links course in the Middle East, Yas Links Abu Dhabi is a standout. Designed by Kyle Phillips, it offers spectacular coastal views and a challenging layout that requires precision and strategy.
- Membership Fees: AED 35,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 875 (weekday), AED 1,075 (weekend).
Its undulating fairways and seaside bunkers create an experience akin to traditional Scottish links courses, but with a touch of Arabian luxury.
5. Al Hamra Golf Club
Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Global Ranking: A rising star in the Middle East golfing scene.
Al Hamra Golf Club, designed by Peter Harradine, is a hidden gem offering a peaceful yet challenging golfing experience. The course integrates natural lagoons and desert landscapes, making it both scenic and technical.
- Membership Fees: AED 20,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 495 (weekday), AED 695 (weekend).
The relaxed atmosphere and affordability make Al Hamra a great option for residents and visitors alike.
6. The Els Club
Location: Dubai Sports City, Dubai
Global Ranking: Among the top courses in the UAE, designed by a world-renowned golfer.
Designed by Ernie Els, this course brings a touch of the South African bushveld to Dubai. With a desert-links style layout, The Els Club combines challenging greens with wide, forgiving fairways. The course is perfect for those who enjoy strategic play, making it a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned players.
- Membership Fees: AED 42,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 895 (weekday), AED 1,095 (weekend).
Facilities include a stunning clubhouse, fine dining options, and an excellent practice area, ensuring a top-tier golfing experience.
7. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Location: Deira, Dubai
Global Ranking: Iconic for its setting and design, with numerous accolades for its playability.
Set alongside the picturesque Dubai Creek, this course is a favourite for its scenic views and well-manicured fairways. Designed by Thomas Bjørn, it provides a mix of challenging holes and more forgiving ones, making it ideal for all skill levels.
- Membership Fees: AED 38,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 795 (weekday), AED 995 (weekend).
The clubhouse, shaped like a traditional dhow sail, is an architectural marvel, and the course offers an unforgettable waterfront golfing experience.
8. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Global Ranking: Praised for its eco-conscious design and stunning beachfront views.
This Gary Player-designed course is the first beachfront golf course in the region, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. With dolphins often spotted near the shore, it’s a course that truly connects players with nature.
- Membership Fees: AED 33,000 annually.
- Green Fees: AED 875 (weekday), AED 1,075 (weekend).
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club blends challenging bunkers and water hazards with sustainable landscaping, providing a memorable golfing experience in a serene setting.
Choosing the Right Course for You
When deciding on a golf course in the UAE, consider factors such as your skill level, budget, and proximity to the location. Most courses offer flexible memberships, including corporate packages and off-peak discounts. Additionally, many of these courses are equipped with world-class facilities, including fine dining, fitness centres, and luxurious locker rooms, enhancing the overall experience.
The Putt: Conclusion
The UAE’s golf courses represent the perfect blend of luxury, challenge, and natural beauty. Whether you aim to play at a globally ranked course like Emirates Golf Club or prefer the serene landscapes of Al Hamra Golf Club, there’s something for everyone. With competitive green fees, flexible memberships, and world-class amenities, the UAE is undoubtedly a golfer’s paradise.
Considering life in the UAE and want to align your lifestyle with world-class leisure options?
Through our Private Office, Kingsbury & Partners helps clients navigate every aspect of relocating, living, and working in the UAE — including access to top-tier golf and lifestyle memberships. Contact us to explore your options.