Established in 1988, Emirates Golf Club holds the honour of being Dubai’s oldest golf course – and the first grass course in the Middle East. Renowned for its challenging Majlis Course and the equally impressive Montgomerie Course, the club offers an exceptional setting for a round under the sun. Beyond the fairways, visitors can enjoy a wealth of facilities, including an interactive driving range, padel courts, and a variety of dining options within the clubhouse. Read on to discover everything you need to know about Emirates Golf Club.
Topgolf: Swing While Socialising
Set within the grounds of Emirates Hills Golf Club and facing Dubai Marina, Topgolf Dubai ranks as arguably one of the most scenic driving ranges in the world. Unfolding across two levels, the facility allows both beginners and seasoned players alike to practice their skills, with games and software designed to accommodate all levels.
Using the interactive screens, players can set up a variety of different activities ranging from one to four participants. Driving and target challenges feature – where players compete to see who can drive the ball furthest or hit a specific target respectively. In addition, traditional games can be enjoyed over either 9 or 18 holes. Beware, though: there is no traditional putting. Players must chip into the nearest target, which is as difficult as putting on a regular green!
One of the best things about Topgolf is the hospitality. Genial servers are on hand to help with screens or provide food and beverages from the expansive menu, meaning you can swing away knowing all your needs are taken care of.
Emirates Majlis Golf Course
An iconic course due to its rich history, Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis course is also one of the best in the country. Inspired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his vision for a progressive, more global country, the clubhouse is modelled in the style of a Bedouin tent and welcomes an abundance of expat members and visitors.
The course features some truly memorable holes, such as the par 3 seventh which forces golfers to play their tee shot across an open expanse of water. The only rule here is to not leave your tee shot short, else you will be forced into a two-stroke penalty. Home to the Dubai Desert Classic, the course has tested some of the world’s greatest golfers, with Tiger Woods memorably winning here in both 2006 and 2008.
Designed by Karl Litten - who arguably began Dubai’s golf revolution after designing this iconic course – Emirates Golf Club also features other exceptional holes such as the legendary 8th, which tests the mettle of even the professionals. Teeing off towards the panoramic vistas of Dubai Marina, you would do well to clear the initial sand-covered section before reaching the fairway. The par-4 dogleg right demands precision off the tee, while the uphill approach adds another layer of difficulty – culminating in a sloping green that tests even the most skilled players. It is, without doubt, a truly magnificent hole.
The 18th, like any truly world-class course, also provides challenges for the game’s aficionados. A mammoth 564-yard par-5, this hole has seen the challenges of many a golfer disintegrate – whether it be a friendly game between amateurs, or within the high-stakes world of professional golf. With a small section of fairway to aim at from the tee box before a sharp dogleg left, the hole continues to frustrate as players must decide whether to lay up or attempt a Hail Mary shot to the green, across the lake. Whichever shot selection, players can relax in the knowledge that even the great Tiger Woods has been caught out by this hole – famously falling apart in the 2001 Desert Classic tournament by carding a double-bogey 7 after a series of catastrophic miss-shots – which cost him the tournament.
Of course, it's not just the Majlis course on offer at Emirates Golf Club; there is also the par-3 course – ideal for youngsters who want to practice their pitch and putt skills, or those who are looking for a more relaxed and accessible golf experience.
Fuel Fore The Fairway
Emirates Golf Club, while providing exceptional golf facilities, also furnishes visitors with some excellent dining options.
Carine showcases charming French fare, brought to you by acclaimed chef Izu Ani. Featuring thoughtfully sourced ingredients and meticulously crafted dishes, the restaurant sparkles as an unpretentious addition to the Dubai restaurant scene. With floor-to-ceiling windows – perfect for capturing the allure of the famed Dubai skyline – the atmosphere at Carine allows visitors to unwind in the company of family and friends. An expansive terrace is also a particular highlight of this sophisticated eatery, ideal for those perfect winter months in the desert.
The menu – as expansive as it is refined – is also bursting with flavour. Crispy calamari, tuna carpaccio and harissa prawns are all inspired choices, while the tarte flambee is a contrast of creamy and crunchy textures. The main menu offers exceptional choices, with a wide selection of pasta, fish and meat dishes – the lobster linguini a particular highlight. The dessert menu is also not to be missed, with the pistachio ice cream and tiramisu providing delightful options.
Toad in the Hole, located within the Topgolf complex, is also an excellent option for food and beverages. With its relaxed atmosphere as a sports bar, it serves as an ideal spot for those seeking refreshments after completing a round.
An All-Encompassing Facility
Despite its name, Emirates Golf Club isn’t simply a golf course; there are a range of other health and wellness facilities within the complex.
Viya Fit Gym offers high-quality training and equipment: a wide range of cardio machines and free weights, as well as resistance machines, help guests achieve their fitness goals. The qualified instructors add to the appeal of the gym, helping provide personal training and nutritional advice tailored to each individual. Trainers will also provide a fitness assessment, as well as a gym orientation to maximise your workouts.
Visitors also gain from multiple padel courts, as well as the rejuvenating experiences on offer at SENSASIA spa. The winner of the 2023 and 2024 Fact Spa & Wellness Awards and the Luxury Lifestyle Award for Best UAE Luxury Spa & Wellness Centre, the facility is an oasis of calm. Offering a variety of treatments, the spa takes inspiration from Asian culture, providing a touch of Thai, Japanese and Balinese grace.
While Emirates Golf Club is primarily renowned as a world-class golfing destination, its offerings extend far beyond the fairways. In addition to its two top-tier courses, the complex features the vibrant Topgolf venue, a range of exceptional dining options, and comprehensive health and wellness facilities. Despite its long-standing presence, this iconic club continues to set the standard for excellence in a city which is gradually becoming one of the top golfing destinations in the world.
