As Emirates Golf Club gears up to host the prestigious Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 16-19, the iconic Majlis Course is being meticulously prepared to welcome golf’s biggest names, including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland, and Tommy Fleetwood.
Leading this incredible effort is Matthew Perry, Course Superintendent at Emirates Golf Club, who oversees a dedicated team of over 100 professionals working tirelessly—often through the night—to ensure the course is in pristine condition.
“The preparation for the Hero Dubai Desert Classic is all about attention to detail,” says Perry. “In the lead-up to the event, we elevate our maintenance practices, rolling greens, increasing cutting frequency, and fine-tuning grass heights to achieve optimal tournament conditions.”
Year-Round Preparation
Preparation for the Hero Dubai Desert Classic starts as soon as the previous event concludes. The team identifies areas for improvement, from extending holes to refining specific course elements. Major projects are strategically scheduled during the summer to minimize disruption.
Sustainability at the Core
The GEO-certified Hero Dubai Desert Classic emphasizes sustainability. Collaborating with Falcon and Associates, the team employs innovative practices like moisture probes and resource conservation. These eco-conscious efforts have earned Emirates Golf Club recognition, including a sustainability award at the DP World Tour Championship.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
Dubai’s climate presents its own set of challenges. Cooler post-overseeding weather is ideal, but unexpected rain can affect course conditions. “We prepare for all scenarios to meet tournament standards,” Perry adds.
During tournament week, the team’s efforts include achieving green speeds averaging 13.3 on the Stimpmeter, ensuring flawless playing conditions for the world’s best golfers.
A Collaborative Effort
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, praises the synergy between the Dubai Golf agronomy team and event organizers:
“The work that Matt and the team do is amazing. Their attention to detail and precision ensure the Majlis Course delivers championship standards year after year. This collaboration guarantees a world-class experience for both players and fans.”
