Golf in Saudi has swiftly evolved from a niche pursuit into one of the country’s fastest-growing sports, powered by world-class facilities, a growing tournament calendar, and global recognition. With cutting-edge courses set against diverse landscapes, Saudi is emerging as a destination where the game meets excellence.
Driven by significant investment and international attention, the sport is attracting elite players and fans from around the world. Hosting major tournaments such as the Saudi International and LIV Golf, Saudi has solidified its place on the global golf map - with renowned names like Ian Poulter, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Dustin Johnson among the regulars on its courses.
While the country’s golf journey is still unfolding, it is already making its mark on the global stage, drawing top competition, inspiring a new generation of local talent, and setting new standards for golf in the region.
5 Major Courses for Tee-Time
- Royal Greens Golf & Country Club (King Abdullah Economic City): An 18-hole, par‑72 championship course north of Jeddah, this GEO-certified course is known for its challenging layouts, and wind exposure. Signature holes include the 15thand 16th, with stunning views of the water.
Major events held here are the Saudi International, Aramco Team Series, Ladies European Tour events, and LIV Golf Jeddah.
- Riyadh Golf Club (Riyadh): Located near the center of the city, this 18-hole, par-72 course is GEO certified. Undulating terrain, manicured greens and man-made waterways lend the course aesthetic beauty and strategic challenge. Its 18 holes are fully lit, allowing golfers to tee off after dark. The course has regularly been awarded “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards in 2022, 2024, and 2025.
This is the flagship venue for major tournaments such as: the LIV Golf League opener, PIF Saudi Ladies International, Saudi International (Men’s) and Saudi Open (Asian Tour).
- Nofa Golf Resort (Riyadh Province): This striking 18-hole course is located southwest of Riyadh. The course is integrated with a mini safari park between holes 8 and 9, with ostriches, Arabian oryx, gazelles and antelopes allowing for a very unique golfing experience. Nofa Resorts was nominated for “Saudi Arabia’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards in 2024.
Host of the Annual Nofa Golf Tournament, a high-profile amateur event
- Dirab Golf & Country Club (near Riyadh): Located in the scenic Dirab Valley, not far from the bustling capital of Riyadh, this is one Saudi’s earliest golf experiences. This GEO-certified course is noted for its environmental sustainability.
- Shura Links (Shura Island, Saudi Red Sea): Expected to open in late 2025, this luxury island course will feature dramatic coastal holes. Designed by Brian Curley, sustainability and regeneration lie at the heart of this design.
Additional courses include Rolling Hills, Ain Nakhl, and Safaa Golf Club (KAUST) and contribute to Saudi’s growing golf footprint.
Major Tournaments
Saudi is now a key stop on both men's and women's global tours, including:
- LIV Golf Riyadh (Feb 5–7 2026): Season opener for the LIV Golf League at Riyadh Golf Club, played under floodlights with stars like Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau.
- PIF Saudi Ladies International (2026 dates TBC): Part of the Ladies European Tour, the finale will be held in Riyadh, with a record $5 million prize fund – the highest in series history, and marking Riyadh as a premier destination for women’s golf.
- PIF Saudi International (Nov 19-22 2025): Held at Riyadh Golf Club and backed by the Asian and European Tours, the event attracts top international talent such as Joaquín Niemann.
Sustainability is at the core of Saudi’s burgeoning golf offering, with initiatives like GEO certifications and grassroots campaigns such as GoGolf - which offers free training to new players - helping broaden access and participation.
Looking for a place that blends sports, entertainment, and heritage? In the heart of Arabia, golf comes with a view, surrounded by cities and sites that capture Saudi’s unique blend of past, present, and future.
