Golf in Dubai: Everything You Need to Know

Our Guide to Dubai Golf Courses

Dubai’s golf courses are among the finest in the Middle East, with designs by some of the biggest names in the sport:

• Emirates Golf Club – The flagship course of Dubai and home to the Dubai Desert Classic. Its Majlis Course is iconic, weaving between dunes and city skyscrapers, while the Faldo Course is floodlit for night golf.
• Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club – Famous for its sail-shaped clubhouse, this par-71 course runs along the Creek, offering both scenic views and a stern test of skill. Its academy is also one of the best for lessons.
• Jumeirah Golf Estates – Known for hosting the DP World Tour Championship, the Earth Course (inspired by famous European and North American courses) and Fire Course (with a desert-style layout) are a must for serious golfers.
• The Els Club – A desert links course created by Ernie Els, blending rolling fairways with undulating greens, with a country-club that is ideal for groups.
• Trump International Golf Club – Located in DAMAC Hills, this modern Gil Hanse design has quickly gained popularity with both locals and visitors.
• Dubai Hills Golf Club – One of the city’s newest courses, offering immaculate fairways and unbeatable skyline views of the Burj Khalifa.
• Yas Links Abu Dhabi – Just over an hour’s drive from Dubai, Yas Links is a true links experience designed by Kyle Phillips. Consistently ranked among the world’s best, it’s worth the journey for any golf lover.

How to Get There

Dubai is compact and well-connected, so most transfers between hotels and golf courses take just 15–30 minutes. Resorts often arrange private cars, while taxis and ride-hailing services are plentiful and reliable.

For Yas Links in Abu Dhabi, plan for a longer 70-minute drive each way. Many visitors choose to make it a day trip, but staying overnight allows time to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Best Time for Tee Times

• October to April – The prime golfing season, with cooler temperatures and blue skies. Tee off early in the morning or later in the afternoon for the most comfortable conditions.

• Summer months – It’s hot, but twilight and night golf under floodlights make it possible to play in the evenings, often at reduced rates.

Beyond the Fairways

What sets Dubai apart as a golf destination is everything off the course. After your round, you can:

• Relax at your resort’s spa or private beach.
• Enjoy world-class dining from Michelin-starred restaurants to vibrant souks.
• Take a desert safari or helicopter flight for a different view of the city.
• Shop in some of the world’s most glamorous malls.

A Dubai golf holiday balances sport with luxury and leisure, making it perfect whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or as a couple.

Golf in Dubai is more than just a game – it’s an experience. Championship courses designed by legends, luxury hotels within easy reach, and a city full of adventure ensure every moment feels unforgettable. With the option to extend your trip to Yas Links Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy a true Middle Eastern golfing journey that combines modern energy with world-class tradition.