March 8, 2025, marks the 37th anniversary of Emirates Golf Club, the pioneering venue that introduced the Middle East to championship golf. Opened in 1988, it became the region’s first all-grass course, forever altering the landscape of golf in the UAE and beyond.
Founded under the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Emirates Golf Club has grown into one of the most iconic golfing destinations in the world. At its core is the renowned Majlis Course, aptly nicknamed ‘the Desert Miracle.’ Designed by American architect Karl Litten, the course integrates seamlessly with the natural desert terrain, providing a stern but rewarding challenge while offering spectacular views of Dubai’s evolving skyline.
Home of Champions
Since 1989, the Majlis Course has played host to the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, the Middle East’s longest-running professional golf tournament. Over the years, some of the game’s biggest legends—including Seve Ballesteros, Ernie Els, Colin Montgomerie, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy—have graced its fairways, helping to establish Dubai as a major hub for elite golf.
Tiger Woods, a two-time winner of the Dubai Desert Classic, has praised the course, saying:
“The Majlis Course is a fantastic test of golf. It’s always in impeccable condition, and the layout forces you to think strategically on every shot. I’ve had some great memories here, and it’s one of my favourite stops on tour.”
EMIRATES GOLF CLUB: THE BIG BANG STORY
A Course That Evolves
Adding to the club’s allure is the Faldo Course, redesigned by six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo. Its strategic layout and undulating terrain make for an exciting test of golf, especially under floodlights, as it remains the only fully floodlit 18-hole course in Dubai—offering a unique night-golfing experience.
More Than Just Golf
Beyond the courses, Emirates Golf Club is a thriving centre for golfers of all abilities. It boasts world-class practice facilities, a Peter Cowen Golf Academy, a lively clubhouse, and a diverse range of dining options. The club has also embraced innovation, introducing the first Topgolf facility in the region—now one of the most successful Topgolf venues worldwide—alongside other growing sports, particularly Padel.
A Bright Future Ahead
Renowned as one of the busiest golf clubs globally, Emirates Golf Club continues to set the benchmark for golfing excellence. Under the guidance of its senior management team, exciting plans are in place to further develop and enhance its facilities, ensuring it remains the flagship golfing destination in the MENA region and beyond.
The Origins of a Landmark
The club’s origins date back to the 1980s, when Sheikh Mohammed first conceived the idea of a grass golf course in Dubai following discussions with Pakistan’s President Zia-ul-Haq. With the approval of his elder brother, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, then Ruler of Dubai, 175 acres of desert were transformed into a world-class golfing venue. President Zia himself marked the grand opening with the inaugural drive—a moment that symbolised not just the start of a new golf course, but the dawn of a new sporting era for the UAE.
A Legacy That Endures
Today, Emirates Golf Club remains at the heart of Dubai’s sporting ambitions, hosting prestigious tournaments while inspiring the next generation of golfers across the region.
Happy Birthday, Emirates Golf Club! – By Nick Tarratt
