The Al Murooj community of the vast King Abdullah Economic City is the setting for the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club development where Dave Sampson of EGD first began to build a course in 2008.
Royal Greens Golf & Country Club
Makkah Province 23981, Saudi Arabia
The Al Murooj community of the vast King Abdullah Economic City is the setting for the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club development where Dave Sampson of EGD first began to build a course in 2008.
King Abdullah Economic City – the largest privately-funded new metropolis in the world – covers a vast 181-square kilometre area and is situated less than a 2-hour drive north of Jeddah, on Saudi Arabia’s west coast. The project consists of a Red Sea port, industrial areas and five residential districts, one of which, Al Murooj, is the setting for the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club development.
Construction of the golf course began in 2008 and sixteen of the holes were shaped before the global recession halted proceedings. Work recommenced six years later but it took until the end of 2017 before the clubhouse finally opened its doors to golfers with Troon Golf, the world’s largest operator of upmarket golf course facilities, managing the business.
The course has been grassed throughout with Paspalum Dynasty, a new strain of the salt and heat tolerant grass that doesn’t discolour during changeable weather conditions so the club doesn’t need to overseed with other grasses. The irrigation system, designed by UK- based company Irritech using Rainbird equipment, provides the all-important application of water, wasting as little as possible.
Notable holes on the course include the 470-yard 6th, the longest and toughest par four on the card, which doglegs left to the target and the 427-yard 15th, where the fairway also veers left from the tee towards a green that’s sited very close to the beach. The front and back nines conclude with demanding par fives, with water running along one side on either hole.
Architect Dave Sampson commented as follows: “The design intention was to create a course rich with variety and choice which the golfer will never tire of. With the prevailing wind off the Red Sea, the course has been routed in such a way that holes play in multiple directions, creating a layout brimming with risk-and-reward choices and opportunities for creative and varied shot making.’’
During the summer of 2018, the Saudi Arabia Golf Federation confirmed that a new European Tour event will take place at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club from January 31 to February 3 2019, featuring Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Justin Rose and Thomas Bjorn.
With the aim of establishing the Tournament as a leading fixture on the European Tour schedule, the SGF announcement also mentioned a special focus on families, community, charity and junior development as the Kingdom looks to develop its golfing pedigree. Dustin Johnson won the inaugural event by two shots and he reclaimed the title in 2021.
In November 2021, Royal Greens will host the last of four stages of the Aramco Team Series – the first team event of its kind on any professional golf tour – when three female professionals team up with an amateur. The unique series spans three continents with tournaments in London (Centurion Club), Sotogrande (La Reserva), New York (Glen Oaks) and Jeddah (Royal Greens).
Exploring the Premier Golf Courses of Saudi Arabia: Royal Greens, Nofa, and Dirab Royal Greens Golf & Country Club Located in the economic city of King Abdullah, near Jeddah, the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club is a luxurious and environmentally sensitive golf course that forms part of a larger residential and leisure complex. This championship 18-hole course is renowned for its picturesque views of the Red Sea and immaculate conditions. Designed by European Golf Design, the course plays host to several high-profile tournaments, including the Saudi International, part of the European Tour. With a modern clubhouse, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a family-friendly environment, Royal Greens is a top-tier golfing destination. Nofa Golf Resort Nestled in a secluded area near Riyadh, Nofa Golf Resort features an African-themed resort with a variety of recreational activities. The golf course itself is a desert-style 18-hole layout, offering a unique challenge with its sand dunes and native vegetation. The resort complements its golf offerings with equestrian facilities and a wildlife park, making it a perfect getaway for families looking for a diverse experience. The course's design focuses on strategic play, requiring golfers to carefully plan each shot amidst the stunning natural terrain. Dirab Golf & Country Club Dirab Golf & Country Club, located on the outskirts of Riyadh, is one of the oldest and most established golf courses in Saudi Arabia. Offering both an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole academy course, Dirab caters to all levels of golfers. The courses are set against a backdrop of the Tuwaiq mountains, providing spectacular views and a serene golfing experience. Dirab is well-known for its lush, tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens, making it a favourite among local and expatriate golfers alike. Conclusion Saudi Arabia's investment in golf is part of a broader vision to enhance its leisure and tourism sectors. Each of these courses—Royal Greens, Nofa, and Dirab—offers a unique glimpse into the diverse golfing landscapes available in the Kingdom. Whether you're seeking a luxurious seaside golf experience, a desert challenge, or a serene mountain backdrop, these courses provide exceptional golfing with world-class amenities. Find out more about travel to Riyadh Golf Club Why not register today to be the 1st to Receive World Rankings releases for 2024. Lockhart Travel Club Concierge Services FAQ What is the Lockhart Travel Club? Lockhart Travel Club is dedicated to offering its members unique opportunities for world-class golf exploration and adventure. It connects members with like-minded individuals worldwide, aiming to fulfil their desire to play at the best golf courses globally. The club originated from Robert Lockhart's passion, a Scotsman who introduced golf to America in the late 19th century, and it continues to embody his spirit of golf travel (Lockhart Travel Club). Who are the members of the Lockhart Travel Club? Members are individuals from some of the world's greatest clubs, sharing a common passion for golf and adventure. The club welcomes golfers eager to travel, play, and check off their bucket list of courses. They are driven by the opportunity to see and play the best courses worldwide, taking advantage of the club's network. What kind of experiences does Lockhart Travel Club offer? In 2023, the club provided opportunities to play in various top-ranked courses and locations, including the Sand Hills of Nebraska and Colorado, the best of Japan and Korea, the English Heathlands, the classic courses of France, and the best of New Zealand’s North Island. The 2024 schedule promises unique experiences in 19 different countries, including Thailand & China, Brazil, South Africa, the Northeast USA, and Australia. How do I join Lockhart Travel Club? Interested individuals can inquire about membership by contacting the club directly via their official email. The club values connections among golf enthusiasts and strives to plan unique, unforgettable opportunities for its members throughout the year. For more detailed inquiries or to apply for membership, please refer directly to the Lockhart Travel Club's official website or contact their membership services. Lockhart Travel Club About Us: Learn more about the club Top 100 Golf Courses - Lockhart Travel Club: Explore member experiences and trips
Experience Royal Greens – The Jewel of Saudi Arabia's Golfing Crown Your chance to walk the same fairways as the pros! Introduction Welcome to the Royal Greens Golf and Country Club, a place where the vibrant green fairways contrast beautifully with the azure of the Red Sea and the rich blues of the Saudi sky. Following the exhilarating LIV Golf Saudi Arabia tournament, we invite you to indulge in the same world-class golfing experience that the pros enjoyed. Discover the splendour of this unique golfing oasis, where every hole tells a story, and every swing brings a sense of achievement. Main Preview Embark on a journey through the Royal Greens – a course that seamlessly blends the challenge of a championship golf course with the luxury of a premier leisure destination. Envision yourself perfecting your game in the footsteps of golfing legends, surrounded by meticulously landscaped greens and breathtaking vistas. Stay & Play: After the thrill of the tournament, the Royal Greens opens its gates to enthusiasts looking to emulate their favourite players. Check out exclusive Stay & Play packages at Top 100 Golf Courses Travel for an unforgettable golfing retreat. Exclusive Access: Elevate your experience with a touch of exclusivity. Join the esteemed Lockhart Travel Club for VIP treatment and unparalleled service that complements the majestic setting of the Royal Greens. Register & Reserve: Ready to tee off on this majestic course? Sign-up now for an opportunity to secure your spot in paradise. Limited slots are available for those eager to challenge themselves where the greats have played. Course Review Page: Wondering if the Royal Greens lives up to the hype? Visit our Course Review Page to read testimonials from golfers who have experienced the magic firsthand. Your next golfing adventure awaits. Top 100 Lists: See how Royal Greens ranks among the best. Explore Top 100 Lists to see where this course stands on the global stage, and why it's a must-visit for any serious golfer.
The Middle East has firmly established itself as a world-class golf destination, and Top 100 Golf Courses reflects this evolution with an expanded Top 25 ranking for 2025. For the first time, dedicated panellists living in the region have played virtually every course in the region, ensuring the most informed assessment of the Middle East's premier golf courses. The region now spans seven countries, featuring exceptional layouts from the UAE's championship courses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as emerging destinations in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman. These rankings identify the courses genuinely worth building a golf trip around, distinguishing between the must-play experiences from the merely adequate. Middle East Top 25 Golf Course Ranking 50 Word Synopsis: Top 100 Golf Courses unveils its expanded Middle East Top 25 for 2025, assessed by dedicated regional panellists. Yas Links maintains its 13-year reign at #1, whilst five new entries include Saudi Arabia's Riyadh at #15. The UAE dominates with 17 courses, as the region's golf landscape continues to evolve remarkably. 2025 Rankings: The Top 25 Era The 2025 rankings represent a significant milestone. The chart has expanded from 20 to 25 courses, with all assessments based on play by dedicated Middle East panellists. An additional 21 courses can be played in the region but haven't made the rankings, not meeting the calibre needed to justify a dedicated golf trip. The exception is Shura Links in Saudi Arabia, which opened recently and will feature in the 2026 update once panellists complete their visit. 2025 Top 25 At A Glance The Unchanged Elite #1: Yas Links Golf Course (UAE) - No change - World Ranking #96 #2: Al Mouj Golf (Championship) (Oman) - No change #3: Trump International Golf Club Dubai (UAE) - No change The Rising Stars #9: Al Zorah Golf Club (UAE) - Up 4 positions #5: Emirates Golf Club (Majlis) (UAE) - Up 3 positions #7: Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club (UAE) - Up 3 positions #4: Jumeirah Golf Estates (Earth) (UAE) - Up 2 positions #6: The Els Club - Dubai (UAE) - Up 1 position The New Entries #14: Al Hamra (UAE) - New #15: Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) - New #18: Yas Acres (9 Holes) (UAE) - New #22: Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club (UAE) - New #25: The Montgomerie (UAE) - New Notable Movements #10: Dubai Hills Golf Club (UAE) - Down 6 positions #23: Emirates Golf Club (Faldo) (UAE) - Down 4 positions #24: Arabian Ranches (UAE) - Down 4 positions #8: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (UAE) - Down 3 positions #19: Royal Golf Club (Montgomerie) (Bahrain) - Down 3 positions #20: Doha (Championship) (Qatar) - Down 3 positions #21: Caesarea (Israel) - Down 3 positions Complete Top 25 #11: Royal Greens Golf & Country Club (Saudi Arabia) - Down 2 #12: Education City (Championship) (Qatar) - Down 2 #13: Ayla (Jordan) - Down 1 #16: Jumeirah Golf Estates (Fire) (UAE) - Down 2 #17: Abu Dhabi Golf Club (National) (UAE) - Down 2 Best Golf Courses by Country UAE Golf Courses Dominate 17 of 25 courses (68%) are located in the UAE Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue their head-to-head rivalry for the region's best courses Five new UAE entries join the Top 25 Yas Links maintains 13-year reign at #1 Saudi Arabia Golf Courses Emerge 2 courses in Top 25: Royal Greens (#11), Riyadh (#15 - new entry) Additional courses monitored: Dirab, Nofa, Shura Links (recently opened) 2030 development plans remain ambitious Regional Golf Destinations Oman: 1 course (Al Mouj at #2) Qatar: 2 courses (Education City #12, Doha Championship #20) Jordan: 1 course (Ayla #13) Bahrain: 1 course (Royal Golf Club #19) Israel: 1 course (Caesarea #21) What the Rankings Tell Us Consistency at the Top Yas Links has held the #1 position since 2012, an unprecedented 13-year run that speaks to Kyle Phillips's masterful design. The Abu Dhabi course remains the only Middle Eastern layout in the World Top 100, currently ranked #96 globally. Al Mouj's consistent #2 ranking demonstrates Greg Norman's ability to create championship golf in challenging environments. The top three positions remain unchanged for the second consecutive ranking, suggesting a quality gap at the elite level. Dubai and Abu Dhabi's Architectural Excellence The Emirates' dominance extends beyond sheer numbers. The region features designs from the world's elite architects, including Kyle Phillips, Greg Norman, Gil Hanse, Ernie Els, Gary Player, and European Golf Design. This depth allows for genuine competition, with courses moving significantly up and down the rankings based on conditioning, innovation, and playing experience. Dubai's golf courses benefit from healthy competition, driving standards ever higher. Great Golf Doesn't Always Mean 18 Holes Yas Acres becomes the first 9-hole layout to feature in the Top 25 at #18, recognising that exceptional short courses can match the quality and strategic interest of full 18-hole facilities. This inclusion reflects modern golf's appreciation for variety in the playing experience. Saudi Arabia's Golf Development Riyadh's debut at #15 and Royal Greens' solid #11 position demonstrate Saudi Arabia's commitment to golf development. With Shura Links recently opened and ambitious plans through 2030, the Kingdom is positioning itself to challenge the UAE's regional supremacy. The expansion of golf courses in Saudi Arabia represents the most significant Middle East golf development story of the coming decade. A Decade of Growth: 2012-2021 2012: The UAE Foundation The journey began in 2012 with a UAE Top 10, doubling the previous chart and establishing the foundation for regional rankings. Kyle Phillips's Yas Links in Abu Dhabi claimed the top position immediately, described as "the first links layout in the Middle East" and elevating modern golf course design to new heights. Greg Norman's Jumeirah Golf Estates Earth and Fire courses made their debuts at #3 and #5 respectively, whilst Gary Player's Saadiyat Beach Golf Club entered at #7. 2014: Regional Recognition Two years later brought significant expansion with the UAE chart growing to a Top 15 and the first comprehensive Middle East regional ranking. Oman emerged as a serious golf destination with Greg Norman's Al Mouj taking the #1 position in the Sultanate and claiming #2 in the wider regional rankings. The chart highlighted quality across the region, featuring Pete Dye's Caesarea in Israel, Peter Harradine's Doha Golf Club in Qatar, and Montgomerie's Royal Golf Club in Bahrain. 2017: The First Top 20 The inaugural Middle East Top 20 in 2017 brought together 14 UAE courses with six from neighbouring countries, recognising the region's importance following nearly three decades of growth since the first European Tour event in 1989. Yas Links retained its #1 position whilst Al Mouj held firm at #2. Notable inclusions were Peter Harradine's Championship layout at Doha Golf Club (#6), Pete Dye's rare international design at Caesarea (#11), and Montgomerie's Bahrain course (#13). 2019: Quality Deepens The first revision of the Top 20 showcased a region maturing rapidly, with 26 courses now featured across thirteen countries. The top three positions remained unchanged, demonstrating the quality gap at the elite level. Trump International Golf Club Dubai made an impressive debut at #7, the first new Dubai course in seven years. The Fire course at Jumeirah Golf Estates climbed to #13, whilst monitoring began on Dubai Hills Golf Club and Education City in Doha. 2021: The Modern Era The third biennial edition revealed European Golf Design as the most prolific firm with four courses listed, whilst Major champions including Els, Faldo, Nicklaus, Norman, Olazábal and Player all had designs featured. Trump International Dubai surged from #7 to #3, whilst Royal Greens in Saudi Arabia climbed five places to #9, taking nearly a decade to complete but delivering exceptional quality. Dubai Hills made its debut at #4, Education City entered at #11, and Arabian Ranches returned at #20. Planning Your Middle East Golf Trip These rankings serve a clear purpose: identifying courses worth building an itinerary around. The Middle East offers convenient travel between destinations, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi golf courses easily combined in a single trip. Qatar's Doha provides an alternative hub, whilst Saudi Arabia's emerging golf scene rewards the more adventurous traveller. The distinction between the ranked Top 25 and the additional 21 playable courses matters. These rankings focus on golf courses worth travelling for, not simply courses that exist. Every layout in the Top 25 offers something special—championship pedigree, architectural significance, or playing experiences unavailable elsewhere. Read our UAE & Abu Dhabi Travel Guide Looking Ahead The Middle East golf landscape continues to evolve at a remarkable pace. Shura Links in Saudi Arabia represents the future. Recently opened and highly anticipated, the course will undoubtedly feature in the 2026 update once our regional panellists complete their assessment. Tiger Woods's design at Trump World Golf Club in Dubai continues its development, whilst various projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia progress toward their 2030 targets. The region that began with a simple Top 10 for the UAE in 2009 now boasts 25 courses worthy of international recognition, with another 21 playable layouts and significant development in the pipeline. Kyle Phillips's Yas Links may have held the crown for 13 years, but competition intensifies with each passing season. View the complete Middle East Top 25 rankings
The latest ranking of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the World serves as the ultimate global golf bucket list. Most members of our World Top 100 Panel are seasoned golfers, each playing 20-30 of these courses annually while travelling extensively over decades to form their opinions on others. We recognise that opinions vary—even among our panel members. Rankings are subjective, and there are undoubtedly 50 or more courses in the UK and USA alone that could easily fit onto this list. Links Golf Pilgrimages The rankings
California, United States
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New York, United States
