Everything You Need to Know About Golf in the UAE

Are you planning a golf holiday in the United Arab Emirates but still don’t know where to start? With this golf guide, creating a golf holiday in the UAE is never as easy as it seems. We provide comprehensive information about golf in the UAE, the best time to visit, the top golf courses, and helpful tips. Let’s read now and note down all you need to know for an unforgettable golf holiday in the UAE!

Overview of golf in the UAE

What do you think when it comes to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? The skyscrapers, vast deserts, or luxury shopping malls? But there is something else you may not have discovered—a world-class golf paradise. Whether you are a professional player or just starting out with a golf club, the UAE will surprise you with the perfect combination of sports, culture, and luxury lifestyle. Come explore with GolfLux; you will definitely want to pack your bags right away!

The UAE stands out with luxurious golf courses designed by the world’s leading architects and set in unique desert landscapes. For instance, the Emirate Golf Club, home to the prestigious Dubai Desert Classic tournament, offers a golfing experience in a space where golden desert sand-perfect patches intersect. What’s special is that the golf courses here are all extremely well-maintained, using advanced irrigation technology to preserve the best quality of the course despite the harsh climate.

Dubai Desert Classic Tournament

Additionally, visitors can combine golf with luxury culture and entertainment experiences. After playing, visitors can enjoy rich Middle Eastern cuisine at the high-end restaurants right on the golf course or participate in activities such as camel riding, exploring the traditional market (souk), and enjoying the sunset in the desert. The UAE has made golf a part of the luxury lifestyle, suitable for those who love refinement and class.

Lastly, the UAE draws thousands of visitors because of the international tournaments and the opportunity to meet stars and celebrities. Events such as the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates not only bring a vibrant atmosphere but also allow fans to witness top performances firsthand. In addition, many golf courses here also organize special exchanges, where visitors can meet and learn from golf legends or participate in courses to improve their skills.

All these things mentioned above make the UAE an unmissable destination for golf enthusiasts. So, are you convinced to spend your next golf holiday in the UAE? Please visit our Best United Arab Emirates (UAE) Golf Holidays and Tour Package.

When is the best time to golf in the UAE?

November to April is the prime window for a golf trip to the UAE. Daytime temperatures sit between 20°C and 30°C, meaning you get clear skies and comfortable playing conditions. This is the region’s peak season, timed alongside major tour stops like the Dubai Desert Classic and the DP World Tour Championship, so the courses are kept in immaculate shape.

From May to October, daytime temperatures routinely clear 40°C, which is too brutal for a standard midday round. To handle the heat, courses like Emirates Golf Club and The Track Meydan run full evening operations under modern floodlights. Playing at night is the standard summer workaround here, it gets you out of the sun completely and lets you experience a completely different side of desert golf.

Go between November and April if you want ideal daytime weather and a busy tournament calendar. If you want a quieter trip and want to try playing under the lights, the summer months are worth a look.

Best time to golf in the UAE

>>> Are you still in the dark when choosing the best time to visit the UAE? Visit this blog for more comprehensive information.

The best golf courses in UAE

The United Arab Emirates is home to numerous world-class golf courses, each meticulously designed as a piece of art, nestled in the heart of the desert or by the sea. In this part, let’s explore the 5 most outstanding golf courses that not only challenge your skills but also bring unforgettable experiences to golf in the UAE.

Emirates Golf Club (Dubai)

Emirates Golf Club is known as the heart of the United Arab Emirates Golf Community and the venue of the famous Dubai Desert Classic. The course has two top golf courses: Majlis (the first 18-hole course in the Middle East) and Faldo (the only night golf course in Dubai). With the harmonious design of the natural landscape and modern infrastructure, every click here is a high-level experience. Not only that, the club also has a luxurious restaurant and leisure space, which is very suitable for resting after the game.

Emirates Golf Club (Dubai): Faldo Course at day and night

Jumeirah Golf Estates (Dubai)

Jumeirah Golf Estates is home to the DP World Tour Championship, the playground of the world’s top golfers. It has two famous courses: Earth Course and Fire Course, designed by legendary Greg Norman. The former replicates a vibrant European landscape, complete with lakes and lush green lawns, while the latter evokes a deep sense of desert with its distinctive shrubs. This is a place not to be missed if you want to experience challenging golf courses while still maintaining your breathtaking beauty.

Jumeirah Golf Estates (Dubai)

The Els Club (Dubai)

Designed by world-renowned golfer Ernie Els, The Els Club offers a unique experience with its desert links style. This 18-hole course features wide fairways and fast greens, requiring skill and good strategy. The Els Club offers a tranquil environment, set apart from the bustling city life. The clubhouse area is also famous for its luxurious restaurant and perfect service, which are very popular with international golfers.

The Els Club (Dubai)

Yas Links (Abu Dhabi)

Yas Links is the Middle East’s first world-class links-style golf course, located on the famous Yas Island. Designed by Kyle Philips, the course is set close to the waterfront, offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Although the unpredictable sea breeze is a challenge for players, it also creates its own attraction. After the game, you can visit Ferrari World or nearby Yas Water Park to enrich your journey.

Yas Links (Abu Dhabi)

Abu Dhabi Golf Club (Abu Dhabi)

The signature of this golf course is the unique falcon-shaped clubhouse, which has become a familiar sight at European Tour tournaments such as the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. With its vast expanse and lush landscape, this 27-hole golf course is designed to challenge even the most experienced golfers. The highlight of Abu Dhabi Golf Club is the combination of the natural environment and advanced maintenance technology, ensuring the course is always in perfect condition. In addition, this golf course also brings a friendly and comfortable feeling, suitable for both professional and beginner players.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club (Abu Dhabi)

>>> Visit our Best United Arab Emirates Golf Course for more inspiring information when planning your golf holiday in UAE.

What to do after golf in UAE

To make your complete golf holiday in the UAE, don’t forget to spend time exploring out-of-course activities. Whether you want to treat yourself to spa service, have dinner at fine dining restaurants, or participate in exciting activities in the desert, the UAE can meet all your demands!

Enjoy first-class unique cuisine in a luxurious restaurant

After playing golf for several hours, there is nothing better than enjoying delicious food at a famous restaurant in the United Arab Emirates. You can dine at Pierchic restaurant in Dubai, located on the sea and offering fresh seafood and first-class service. Alternatively, if you want to try local flavors, Al Fanar restaurant’s dishes such as shawarma, mezze, or luqaimat will also offer you a traditional Arabic culinary experience.

Pierchic restaurant in Dubai

Relax at the premier spa

To treat yourself properly after spending strength on the courses, don’t forget to ease your muscles at the premium spa center. Many golf courses in the UAE offer on-site spa services, such as Jumeirah Golf Estates or Abu Dhabi Golf Club, where you can enjoy enhanced massages with local herbal oils. If you want to experience a more unique experience, try the desert spa treatments at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, which combine nature with refinement.

Spa at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort

Explore the city from above with a helicopter tour

The UAE is a sight to behold from the air, such as the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah to the vast desert. Several companies offer helicopter flights in Dubai, such as HeliDubai, which provide a whole new perspective on the city. It’s a great way to end a day of golf, relaxing while taking in the stunning views from above.

Dubai helicopter tour

>>> Seeking a combination of playing golf and exploring the culture? Visit our Abu Dhabi Stay & Play Package 3 Days 2 Nights for more inspiring insight.

Ride a camel and admire the sunset in the desert

There is nothing better to embody the spirit of the United Arab Emirates than riding a camel in the desert at sunset. After conquering the golf course, you can embark on a desert adventure where you can ride camels, slide sand, and enjoy traditional Arabic tea under a Bedouin tent. Companies like Platinum Heritage offer exceptional experiences to help you better understand local culture.

Ride a camel and admire the sunset in the desert

Experience the world’s top theme parks

If you love excitement and energy, the theme parks in the UAE are a must visit. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, you can ride the world’s fastest roller coaster or explore Ferrari’s racing technology. Or if you’re in Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure will surprise you with thrilling rides inspired by famous superheroes and cartoon characters. It’s a great way to combine entertainment and exercise in one day.

Roller Coaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Getting around UAE

The UAE transportation system has grown significantly recently, making it easy and convenient to travel for both locals and foreigners. Here are some of the most popular means of transportation you can opt for during your golf holiday in the UAE.

Taxi

Taxis are usually your best bet, especially when you are lugging a heavy golf bag. They are everywhere in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. You can hail one on the street or use apps like Careem and Uber to book them. Fares are state-regulated and metered, so you don’t have to worry about getting ripped off. In Dubai, standard street meters start at around $1.4 and add about $0.5 per kilometer (expect a bit more at night). Airport pickups are pricier, starting at roughly $6 to $7 before the meter even rolls. 

Metro

Dubai has a massive, driverless metro system that links major spots like the airport, Dubai Marina, and the Dubai Mall. Tickets are cheap, ranging from $0.80 to $4.00 depending on how far you go. While it is great for saving money and skipping rush-hour traffic on the Sheikh Zayed Road, keep in mind it is only practical for sightseeing. Carrying a full set of clubs onto a packed metro car during peak hours is not something you want to try.

Depending on the number of areas you pass through. This is an ideal choice if you want to save money and avoid traffic jams.

Dubai Metro

Bus

The public bus system in the UAE is very developed, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. All buses are air-conditioned and operate on a specific schedule. In Dubai, you need to use the Nol card to pay, applicable for both buses and the metro. Ticket prices within the city are usually only $0.80/trip, while intercity bus routes such as Dubai-Abu Dhabi cost around $6.80/way, providing convenience for long trips.

Car Rental

Renting a car is the perfect option if you want to explore the UAE on your own. Companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar offer a wide range of cars, from economy to luxury. Rental prices range from $30 to $140/day, depending on the type of car and rental period. Note that you need an international driving permit (IDP) if you don’t have a UAE license. Gas prices in the UAE are quite cheap, only about $1/liter, helping save significantly when traveling.

River Tram

In Dubai, you should not miss the opportunity to cross the Dubai River by taking a traditional wooden boat. The ticket price is approximately $0.30/session, providing a unique experience and local culture. In addition, modern Dubai water buses and Dubai ferry routes are also an interesting choice, with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $15, suitable for exploring the coastline and enjoying spectacular views.

Dubai Ferry

Bicycles and electric vehicles

Dubai is promoting the use of bicycles and electric vehicles with public rental stations in areas such as Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai. Apps like Careem Bike allow you to rent a bike easily for around $5.50/day. This is a suitable means of traveling short distances and exploring the city in a relaxing, environmentally friendly way.

>>> Combine golf and entertaining activities with our Dubai Golf Package 7 Days for an unforgettable holiday.

How much does golf cost in the UAE?

The cost for a golf holiday in the UAE depends on many factors, such as the length of stay, the number of golf courses you want to experience, the type of accommodation, and the activities included. Here is a detailed estimate for your reference.

Flight ticket

If you depart from Europe or Asia, the cost would be around $500 to $800 (round trip). If you depart from the US, then it would cost from $1,000 to $1,500 (round trip). Please notice that flight ticket prices may fluctuate depending on the tourist season and airline.

Accommodation

• 4-star hotel: Budget around $100 to $150 a night. These are perfect if you just need a clean place to crash between rounds and don’t care about resort fluff.
• 5-star hotel: Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 a night. The prices scale up quickly if you want a room overlooking iconic fairways like the Majlis course at Emirates Golf Club or the coastline at Yas Links.
• Golf resort: Staying directly on-site at destinations like Jumeirah Golf Estates or the Abu Dhabi Golf Club runs between $300 and $600 per night. It is pricey, but it cuts your morning travel time down to zero and often includes preferred tee time access.

Green Fee

• The championship tracks: If you want to play the exact holes you see on TV like Jumeirah Golf Estates, Emirates Golf Club, or Yas Links – a single round of 18 holes will run you between $150 and $300.
• Mid-tier courses and twilight times: You can easily find quality intermediate courses or off-peak afternoon tee times for $100 to $150 a round. Just be prepared for the midday heat if you book late morning.
• Stay-and-play or multi-round deals: Never pay walk-on rates if you can avoid it. Booking a 3-round package at the popular clubs usually costs between $400 and $800, and sticking to weekdays will always save you a chunk of cash.

Estimated golf expense for 1 week in the UAE

Getting around

• Taxis and Uber: Expect to spend $15 to $50 a day. Taxis are heavily regulated and clean, but the distances between Dubai and Abu Dhabi courses are massive, so the meter can add up if your hotel is far from the first tee.
• Car rentals: Renting your own wheels runs about $30 to $140 a day. Petrol is incredibly cheap at roughly $1 a liter, which keeps road trips manageable. Just make sure you rent a mid-size SUV or larger, trying to cram two tour bags into the boot of an economy hatchback is an absolute nightmare.
• The Metro: At $2 to $10 a day, Dubai’s metro is great for an evening trip to the Dubai Mall, but it is completely useless for golf days. The tracks don’t drop you at the clubhouses, and nobody wants to haul a 40-pound travel cover through a crowded train station.

Food and beverage

• High-end clubhouses and fine dining: Eating at resort restaurants or famous spots like Pierchic and Nobu will cost you roughly $50 to $100 per person for a proper meal.
• Casual mid-range dining: Staying away from the fine-dining scene keeps meals around $20 to $40. There is a massive variety of international spots and traditional Middle Eastern restaurants where you can eat incredibly well for this price.
• Local street food: If you want to keep it simple, local spots serving up shawarma, kebabs, or biryani cost just $10 to $20 a meal and are often the best food you’ll taste all week.

Off-course experiences

• Desert safaris: A standard afternoon out in the dunes, including camel riding, sandboarding, and a sunset dinner, costs about $50 to $150 per person.
• Sightseeing: Tickets to the observation decks at the Burj Khalifa run between $40 and $100 depending on how high you go, while a day pass to theme parks like Ferrari World on Yas Island costs around $80 to $100.
• Resort spas: If you need a recovery session after walking 18 holes, treatments at a high-end hotel spa generally range from $100 to $300.

Helpful tips for your perfect holiday in the UAE

To make the most of your golf holiday in the UAE, we provide some helpful tips below. Please consider these tips and enjoy your unforgettable holiday in this stunning nation.

Book accommodation and tee time in advance

Some famous golf courses, such as Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, and Yas Links, are always full, especially during peak season (from November to April). So, book accommodation and tee time ahead two weeks to reserve your preference. It is important to book a tee time in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the daytime heat and enjoy the spectacular sunset.

Prepare appropriate clothes and equipment

Golf courses in the UAE require a strict dress code; therefore, you should follow them by bringing a polo, shorts, and sports skirts. Remember to bring a hat if you play golf in the sunlight.
If you don’t want to bring your clubs, you can rent them in the clubhouse. The cost ranges from $50 to $100/set, depending on the kind of club.

Protect yourself from the heat

Even in the cold season, the temperatures in the UAE can still cause your body to dehydrate quickly. We recommend you bring a bottle of water with you and drink enough water throughout the golf game. Don’t forget to use high-SPF sunscreen, carry sunglasses, and a wide ring cap to protect your skin and eyes from the harsh sun.

Many golf courses, such as The Track Meydan Golf or Emirates Golf Club-Faldo Course, offer night golfing services with modern lighting systems, providing an enjoyable experience and avoiding the heat of the day.

Visit Burj Khalifa

Combine golf with special experiences

Being the magnet to tourism around the world, there are tons of entertaining activities for you to enjoy besides golf. You should enjoy spa treatments at golf resorts such as Jumeirah Golf Estate or Abu Dhabi Golf Club to unwind after a golf game. Moreover, let’s explore the UAE through activities such as camel riding, visiting the Burj Khalifa, or participating in desert tours. And lastly, for food lovers, you can’t miss international cuisine or unique Middle Eastern cuisine at luxurious restaurants. We are sure these activities will make your time in the UAE much more memorable.

Plan a flexible schedule to enjoy more

For a holiday that combines golf and exploration, a smart itinerary is essential. You can arrange golf in the morning and travel to the desert or relax at the spa in the afternoon. Moreover, you should experience different golf courses. The UAE has many unique golf courses with distinctive design styles; therefore, trying on 2-3 different courses will bring diversity and novelty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, golf in the UAE is a valuable opportunity to experience world-class golf courses, luxurious services and amenities, and unique activities and culture. We hope this ultimate guide will help you have a well-rounded perspective on the experience in this stunning country. Please let us be your companion on your golf holiday in the UAE; we guarantee excellent service without compromising!

Read more:

• 10 Best Golf Courses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• How to Spend 5 Days Golf in UAE?
• How to Spend 6 Days Golf in UAE?

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