Saudi Arabia Reaches New Heights In Golfing Excellence With World-Class Venues And Prestigious Tournaments Attracting Global Stars

Published on November 27, 2025

Saudi Arabia is rapidly establishing itself as a premier destination for golf tourism, driven by significant investments in world-class courses and a packed calendar of prestigious events. With venues like Royal Greens and Riyadh Golf Club attracting international stars and top-tier tournaments such as the Saudi International and LIV Golf, the Kingdom is not only enhancing its global golfing profile but also inspiring a new wave of local talent. This growing scene, combined with breathtaking landscapes and a commitment to sustainability, positions Saudi Arabia as an exciting and unique destination for both players and golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Golf in Saudi Arabia has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, transforming from a niche hobby to one of the country’s most dynamic sports. This rise has been fueled by substantial investments, world-class golf courses, and the increasing global interest in the Kingdom’s sporting landscape. With courses nestled in awe-inspiring and varied landscapes, Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a premier golf destination, combining elite competition with superb playing conditions.

The sport’s rapid development is not just a product of investment in infrastructure, but also the arrival of some of the world’s most renowned international golfers. High-profile events like the Saudi International and LIV Golf have put the Kingdom on the global golfing map, drawing in stars such as Ian Poulter, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Dustin Johnson. Their participation has not only elevated the visibility of Saudi courses but also sparked a surge of interest among local golfers, inspiring a new generation to pick up the sport.

Saudi Arabia’s golf scene, though still in its developmental stages, has already begun to make waves internationally. The quality of the country’s facilities is a testament to its ambition, with several courses now recognized as some of the finest in the region. The Kingdom is positioning itself as a central hub for golf in the Middle East, and its commitment to excellence is clear in both the caliber of its venues and the prestige of the tournaments it hosts.

Highlight Courses in Saudi Arabia’s Golf Landscape

Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, King Abdullah Economic City

A flagship venue in Saudi Arabia’s golf scene, Royal Greens Golf & Country Club is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course. Located in King Abdullah Economic City, this GEO-certified course is known for its challenging layout, with its fairways exposed to the wind and stunning coastal views. Holes 15 and 16, which overlook the Red Sea, are particularly famous for their beauty and difficulty. The course hosts prestigious events such as the Saudi International, Aramco Team Series, and LIV Golf Jeddah, solidifying its reputation as one of the Kingdom’s top golfing venues.

Riyadh Golf Club, Riyadh

Situated near the heart of the capital, Riyadh Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-72 course with a variety of rolling terrain, manicured greens, and artificial waterways. The course is fully floodlit, allowing golfers to play well into the evening. Riyadh Golf Club has earned the title of “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards for multiple years (2022, 2024, and 2025). The venue regularly hosts high-profile tournaments, including the LIV Golf League opener, PIF Saudi Ladies International, and the Saudi International, making it a key stop on international golfing circuits.

Nofa Golf Resort, Riyadh Province

Located southwest of Riyadh, Nofa Golf Resort offers a unique golfing experience with a stunning 18-hole course that runs alongside a mini safari park. Between holes 8 and 9, golfers might even encounter wildlife such as ostriches, Arabian oryx, and gazelles. This course has been nominated for “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” in 2024 and is also home to the annual Nofa Golf Tournament, a major amateur event in the Kingdom.

Dirab Golf & Country Club, near Riyadh

One of Saudi Arabia’s earliest golf destinations, Dirab Golf & Country Club is situated in the scenic Dirab Valley, just outside Riyadh. The course is GEO certified, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental sustainability in its golfing endeavors. Dirab is known for its lush fairways and well-maintained greens, making it a popular choice for both local and international players.

Shura Links, Shura Island (Red Sea)

Slated to open in late 2025, Shura Links is a coastal course designed by renowned architect Brian Curley. The course promises breathtaking seaside holes, offering players both a competitive challenge and stunning views of the Red Sea. Sustainability and regeneration are key aspects of the course’s design, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of environmental stewardship in its sporting infrastructure.

Additional Courses and Venues

Saudi Arabia’s golf offerings extend beyond these standout venues, with other notable courses such as Rolling Hills, Ain Nakhl, and Safaa Golf Club at KAUST further enriching the Kingdom’s growing golfing landscape. Each of these venues brings its own unique features, from challenging layouts to picturesque settings, contributing to the diversity of golfing experiences available in Saudi Arabia.

A Flourishing Tournament Scene

Saudi Arabia has become an essential stop on both the men’s and women’s international golf tours, thanks to its world-class venues and ambitious tournament schedule. The Kingdom is now home to a range of high-profile events that attract top-tier global talent:

• LIV Golf Riyadh (February 5–7, 2026): The season opener at Riyadh Golf Club, this event is set to feature top players competing under floodlights, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s growing status in global golf.
• PIF Saudi Ladies International (2026): Part of the Ladies European Tour, this event will offer a record-breaking $5 million prize fund, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to women’s golf.
• PIF Saudi International (November 19–22, 2025): Backed by both the Asian and European Tours, this event attracts elite male golfers and is another key fixture in the global golf calendar.

Sustainability and Grassroots Growth

Sustainability continues to be at the core of Saudi Arabia’s golfing strategy. Many courses are GEO certified, demonstrating a commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Additionally, grassroots initiatives like GoGolf have been launched to encourage wider participation, offering free training to beginners and making golf more accessible to a broader audience.

For fans and players alike, Saudi Arabia offers a unique fusion of sport, culture, and scenery. The Kingdom’s golf scene is not just about competitive play; it also invites visitors to experience the country’s rich heritage, modern infrastructure, and ambitious vision for the future of the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner looking to learn, Saudi Arabia’s golf offerings promise a fresh and exciting experience in one of the most rapidly developing golfing destinations in the world.