The UAE is not just known for its luxury hotels and skyscrapers—it’s also a golf lover’s paradise. Whether you are a beginner wanting to learn the sport or a tourist looking for a fun activity, UAE has a variety of golf courses that cater to all skill levels. This guide will help you explore the top golf courses in UAE for beginners and tourists so you can enjoy a memorable experience.
Why Play Golf in the UAE?
Golf in the UAE is a unique experience because of:
- Beautiful landscapes – Courses are designed with lush greens, desert views, and water features.
- World-class facilities – Many golf courses are maintained to international standards.
- Tourist-friendly services – Courses offer lessons, equipment rental, and welcoming environments for beginners.
- Year-round play – The climate allows golf almost all year, especially in cooler months.
Even if you are new to golf, the UAE provides supportive environments to learn the sport and have fun.
Things Beginners Should Know
Before visiting a golf course as a beginner:
- Book a Lesson – Most courses offer beginner-friendly classes with certified instructors.
- Use Rental Equipment – You don’t need to bring your own clubs; rental services are available.
- Understand Dress Codes – Most courses require collared shirts, golf shoes, and appropriate pants or shorts.
- Start with Short Courses – Par-3 or executive courses are perfect for beginners.
- Stay Hydrated – UAE can be hot, so drinking water while on the course is important.
Following these tips ensures that even new players enjoy their golfing experience.
1. Emirates Golf Club, Dubai
One of the most famous golf clubs in the UAE is Emirates Golf Club. It is perfect for both beginners and tourists.
- Courses: Majlis (Championship) and Faldo (shorter and beginner-friendly).
- Lessons: Certified instructors provide private and group lessons.
- Facilities: Practice ranges, putting greens, and a pro shop.
- Experience: Surrounded by stunning desert and city views, it gives a luxurious golfing experience.
The Faldo course is ideal for beginners because it is shorter and less challenging. Tourists often enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings while learning the game.
2. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club offers a unique experience by combining golf and water views.
- Courses: Championship 18-hole course designed by Greg Norman.
- Lessons: Beginner-friendly classes are available with supportive coaching.
- Facilities: Driving range, putting greens, and rental equipment.
- Tourist Experience: Overlooking Dubai Creek, this club gives beginners a chance to practice while enjoying picturesque views.
Many tourists start here because the course is not too intimidating, and the staff is welcoming to those new to the sport.
3. Abu Dhabi Golf Club
Located in the capital city, Abu Dhabi Golf Club is one of the most popular golf destinations for tourists.
- Courses: Signature 27-hole course with various difficulty levels.
- Beginner Support: Golf lessons and short course options are available.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, practice greens, and rental equipment.
- Scenery: Desert landscapes combined with lush fairways create a memorable experience.
The club offers beginner-friendly coaching and shorter holes, making it perfect for tourists who want to try golf without pressure.
4. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is ideal for beginners because of its open fairways and forgiving layout.
- Courses: 18-hole course designed by Gary Player.
- Beginner-Friendly: Lessons and practice facilities help new players gain confidence.
- Tourist Experience: Located by the sea, it offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Facilities: Clubhouse, pro shop, and rental equipment.
This course is highly recommended for tourists who want to combine golf with a relaxing seaside experience.
5. The Els Club, Dubai
Designed by Ernie Els, The Els Club is one of Dubai’s premier golf courses and beginner-friendly spots.
- Courses: 18-hole championship course with practice facilities.
- Beginner Lessons: Coaches offer structured training for newcomers.
- Facilities: Driving range, putting greens, and a clubhouse cafe.
- Experience: The desert-style course is challenging but welcoming to beginners.
Tourists enjoy the serene environment and professional coaching while learning the game.
6. Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
Jumeirah Golf Estates has gained fame for hosting international tournaments, but it also caters to beginners.
- Courses: Earth and Fire courses, with the Earth course suitable for beginners.
- Lessons: Beginner-friendly lessons with certified instructors.
- Facilities: Golf academy, practice ranges, and rental equipment.
- Tourist Experience: The lush green fairways make it a pleasant environment for newcomers.
Beginners can practice in a professional setting without feeling overwhelmed by the championship layout.
7. Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club
For those in northern UAE, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club is a great choice for tourists and beginners.
- Courses: 9-hole executive course perfect for beginners.
- Lessons: Golf coaching available for new players.
- Facilities: Practice range, putting greens, and equipment rentals.
- Tourist Experience: Less crowded than Dubai, offering a calm environment for learning.
This course is ideal for tourists who want a relaxed golfing experience without traveling far from Sharjah city.
8. Al Hamra Golf Club, Ras Al Khaimah
For tourists visiting Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Golf Club is beginner-friendly and scenic.
- Courses: 18-hole championship course with gentle fairways.
- Lessons: Golf lessons and short course options for beginners.
- Facilities: Driving range, pro shop, and clubhouse restaurant.
- Experience: Beautiful views of the Hajar Mountains make it unique and memorable.
The calm surroundings and professional coaching make it a top choice for tourists and newcomers to golf.
Tips for Tourists Trying Golf in UAE
To enjoy your golf experience fully as a tourist or beginner:
- Start with Shorter Courses – Par-3 or executive courses help you learn faster.
- Book Lessons in Advance – Ensure you have guidance from experienced coaches.
- Rent Equipment – You don’t need to carry your own golf clubs.
- Check Dress Codes – Most courses require collared shirts and golf shoes.
- Plan for the Weather – Mornings and evenings are best, especially in summer.
- Combine Golf with Sightseeing – Many courses are near luxury hotels, beaches, or tourist spots.
Following these tips helps beginners feel comfortable and enjoy golf while visiting UAE.
Why Golf is Great for Tourists
Golf is not only a sport—it is also:
- Relaxing and stress-relieving – The calm courses and green spaces help you unwind.
- Social – You can meet locals or other tourists.
- Active – Walking the course and swinging clubs gives good physical activity.
- Scenic – UAE courses are designed with stunning views of deserts, water, and city skylines.
Even if you are new to golf, UAE makes it easy and enjoyable to start learning.
Conclusion
The UAE offers some of the best golf courses for beginners and tourists. Top options include Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, The Els Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, and Al Hamra Golf Club.
Whether you are visiting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah, you will find courses that welcome beginners, provide lessons, and offer rental equipment. Remember to book lessons, follow dress codes, and enjoy the beautiful views while learning.
Golf in the UAE is more than a sport—it’s an experience. As a tourist, you can enjoy professional coaching, scenic courses, and a relaxing atmosphere that makes learning easy and fun.
