Luxury resorts & world-class golf set in Arabian splendour

The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself as one of the world’s top golf destinations, combining spectacular desert landscapes, championship-calibre courses, and five-star hospitality. From the iconic fairways of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the relaxed coastal beauty of Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, every round promises a perfect balance of sunshine, luxury, and adventure.

Play the same courses that host the DP World Tour Championship and Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, then unwind in elegant beachfront resorts or sleek city hotels that redefine modern comfort. With immaculate greens, dramatic backdrops, and warm Arabian hospitality, a golf holiday in the UAE is every bit as unforgettable off the course as it is on it.

Why book a golf holiday to the UAE?

  • Play world-class, DP World Tour standard golf courses
  • Experience the ultra-modern city with luxurious malls & restuarants
  • Learn about the ancient Arabian culture or take a desert safari
  • Book now to earn Loyalty Breakpoints & get money off your next trip
  • Book with confidence & peace of mind with full ATOL/ABTOT protection

The world’s best desert golf

With its stunning mix of desert landscapes, coastal beauty, and modern design, the UAE is home to some of the world’s most spectacular golf courses, each paired with exceptional service and world-class resorts.

Whether you’re chasing iconic skyline views in Dubai, championship layouts in Abu Dhabi, or peaceful seaside rounds in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, every emirate brings its own unique charm. With excellent connectivity, a thriving golf calendar, and guaranteed sunshine, the UAE is where golf and luxury come together seamlessly.

Travel tips for golfers visiting the UAE

  • Best time to visit: October to April offers ideal golfing weather, with warm, sunny days and light breezes. Summer months can be extremely hot, so opt for early-morning or twilight tee times. The UAE has great night golf options.
  • Top tip: Pack light, breathable golf attire, plenty of suncream, and a hat. Hydration is key, and most courses provide cold water and shaded refreshment stations throughout the round.
  • Travel time: Direct flights from the UK to Dubai and Abu Dhabi take around 7 hours, with short onward drives to other emirates.
  • Transport: Taxis are reliable and plentiful in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, while car hire is ideal for those exploring multiple golf destinations. Many resorts also provide private transfers and shuttle services to nearby courses.
  • Booking tip: Championship venues such as Emirates Golf Club (Dubai), Yas Links (Abu Dhabi), and Al Hamra Golf Club (Ras Al Khaimah) are extremely popular, so secure your tee times early, especially during winter or tournament weeks.

Check out our UAE golf guide here to help you plan the perfect golf trip.

Top golf destinations in the UAE

Dubai – Best for iconic golf and luxury living

Dubai is the heart of golf in the UAE, home to world-famous courses like Jumeirah Estates and Emirates Golf Club. Tee off beneath the skyline, then unwind in one of the city’s many five-star resorts, enjoy fine dining at world-class restaurants, or relax on golden beaches. With its mix of modern architecture, high-end entertainment, and desert beauty, Dubai is the ultimate city golf destination.

Check out our Dubai golf holiday FAQs article here!

Abu Dhabi – Best for championship golf and culture

The UAE’s capital combines first-class golf with elegant sophistication. Play Yas Links, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, or Abu Dhabi Golf Club, all boasting immaculate conditioning and scenic backdrops. Off the course, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi, admire the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, or relax on Saadiyat Island’s pristine beaches. Abu Dhabi perfectly balances sporting excellence with culture, comfort, and calm.

Ras Al Khaimah – Best for relaxed coastal golf

A quieter alternative to the big cities, Ras Al Khaimah offers a more laid-back atmosphere with incredible natural beauty. The award-winning Al Hamra Golf Club is set along the coast, providing a scenic and rewarding challenge. Stay at the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah or Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, and enjoy peaceful beaches, mountain views, and a slower pace of life.

Ajman – Best for hidden-gem golf and boutique stays

Small but full of character, Ajman is the UAE’s hidden golfing gem. The stunning Al Zorah Golf Club, designed by Nicklaus Design, features mangrove-lined fairways and natural lagoons that attract local wildlife. Stay at the elegant Ajman Saray, a beachfront resort offering warm Arabian hospitality, great dining, and easy access to both the course and nearby Dubai.

Feel the warmth of desert-style courses on a UAE golf holiday

The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the world’s most spectacular golf courses, where desert beauty meets coastal elegance and world-class design. Expect a diverse mix of championship layouts crafted by some of the game’s greatest architects, including Greg Norman, Gary Player, Ernie Els, Kyle Phillips, and Karl Litten.

Here are some of the UAE’s best golf courses:

Yas Links Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi Architect: Kyle Phillips | Par: 72 | Opened: 2010

Set on the western shores of Yas Island, Yas Links Abu Dhabi is the best layout in the Middle East and home of the HSBC Championship. Kyle Phillips’ design blends rolling dunes, pot bunkers, and sweeping Arabian Gulf views into a course that’s as challenging as it is beautiful.

Travel tip: Play in the late afternoon for cooler conditions and incredible sunset views across the Gulf.

Dubai Hills Golf Club | Dubai Architect: European Golf Design (Gary Johnston) | Par: 72 | Opened: 2018

A standout example of modern desert golf, Dubai Hills Golf Club is set within the heart of Dubai Hills Estate. Wide fairways, sculpted bunkers, and elevated greens are framed by panoramic views of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa, creating a truly unforgettable backdrop.

Good to know: Book a morning tee time to capture unbeatable skyline photos and enjoy the coolest playing conditions.

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club | Abu Dhabi Architect: Gary Player | Par: 72 | Opened: 2010

The first beachfront course in the Arabian Gulf, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club combines natural beauty with world-class design. Gary Player’s layout flows between rolling dunes and turquoise waters, offering a tranquil yet challenging round that’s enhanced by native wildlife and sea breezes.

Course fact: Rated 4.8/5 on GolfPass for layout, scenery, and overall experience.

Jumeirah Golf Estates – Earth Course | Dubai Architect: Greg Norman | Par: 72 | Opened: 2008

Home to the DP World Tour Championship since 2009, the Earth Course is Dubai’s ultimate tournament venue. Inspired by classic parkland designs, it features brilliant white bunkers, lush fairways, and dramatic water features. It’s a true test for pros and amateurs alike.

Insider tip: Visit in November to catch the DP World Tour Championship and witness the world’s best players in action.

The Els Club | Dubai Architect: Ernie Els | Par: 72 | Opened: 2008

Designed by Major Champion Ernie Els, The Els Club is a desert-links hybrid that perfectly balances challenge and enjoyment. With more than 80 bunkers, wide fairways, and pristine greens, it’s a strategic yet accessible layout for golfers of all abilities.

Travel tip: Enhance your game with a lesson at the Els Performance Golf Academy, one of the finest facilities in the Middle East.

Emirates Golf Club – Majlis Course | Dubai Architect: Karl Litten | Par: 72 | Opened: 1988

The legendary Majlis Course is where Dubai’s golf story began, and it remains one of the world’s most recognisable layouts. Home to the Dubai Desert Classic, this lush course is framed by the iconic city skyline and renowned for its immaculate conditioning and unforgettable vistas.

Course tip: Don’t miss the signature 8th hole, offering one of golf’s most photographed backdrops, the Dubai Marina skyline rising above the green.

Al Zorah Golf Club | Ajman Architect: Nicklaus Design | Par: 72 | Opened: 2015

A hidden gem in the emirate of Ajman, Al Zorah Golf Club is set amid natural mangroves and tidal lagoons. The course changes character with the tides, creating a dynamic and scenic experience that showcases the UAE’s natural side. It’s a must-play for those seeking tranquillity just a short drive from Dubai.

Insider tip: Time your round with the tides, low tide reveals wider fairways, while high tide adds stunning reflections across the lagoons.

Explore by map

Not sure where to play? Browse our map and find your ideal destination in a continent of possibilities. We know you will be spoiled for choice! Remember our knowledgeable golf experts are ready to answer any questions.

Best-selling golf holidays in the United Arab Emirates

UAE golf tour experiences

Check out some of our favourite golf tour packages in the UAE. And remember, they are all fully customisable, call up one of our Golf Travel Experts and they'll help tailor a trip to your preferences!

High-living & prestigious hotels

If you’re planning a golf holiday to the United Arab Emirates, you’ll find an incredible range of accommodation to suit every style of golfer. From Dubai’s luxurious city resorts and Abu Dhabi’s coastal sanctuaries to the relaxed beach retreats of Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, the UAE combines world-class golf with equally unforgettable places to stay.

Best for iconic Dubai city stays Perfect for golfers who want to pair championship golf with Dubai’s vibrant nightlife, shopping, and skyline views.

  • Vida Emirates Hills Chic and contemporary, Vida Emirates Hills sits alongside The Address Montgomerie Golf Course and is moments from Emirates Golf Club. With sleek design, relaxed dining, and views over the fairways, it’s perfect for golfers seeking stylish comfort in a prime location.
  • Media Rotana Offering exceptional value near Dubai Hills and The Els Club, Media Rotana combines comfort with convenience. Spacious rooms, a pool, and great dining make it a practical, well-placed option for groups or business travellers mixing work and play.
  • The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle A modern, vibrant hotel with easy access to Dubai’s key courses, including Jumeirah Golf Estates and Dubai Hills. With its social atmosphere, rooftop pool, and excellent dining, it’s perfect for groups or couples wanting a lively yet comfortable base.

Best for golf & coastal luxury in Abu Dhabi Ideal for golfers seeking championship venues, pristine beaches, and a touch of culture.

  • The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort This elegant Mediterranean-style resort sits directly beside Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. With luxurious rooms, an award-winning spa, and beachfront dining, it’s one of the UAE’s most sought-after golf escapes.

Best for relaxation in Ras Al Khaimah & Ajman Perfect for golfers seeking a peaceful seaside base away from the city bustle.

  • Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah An Arabian-inspired palace by the sea, offering timeless luxury, private beaches, and direct access to Al Hamra Golf Club. With fine dining, a serene spa, and stunning views, it’s a world-class choice for a relaxing golf retreat.
  • Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort Combining French elegance with modern comfort, this new beachfront resort is steps from Al Hamra Golf Club. Perfect for golfers who value sophistication, spa indulgence, and serenity.

Want more variety? Book a custom UAE golf tour

Why not make the most of your trip with a customisable UAE golf tour? Follow in the footsteps of the pros and explore the best of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Ajman, all in one unforgettable golf journey.

A golf tour allows you to:

  • Play multiple championship courses, from Emirates Golf Club to Yas Links and Al Hamra
  • Stay in varied accommodation, from city icons to beachfront resorts
  • Customise your itinerary with desert safaris, spa days, or cultural excursions
  • Add extra experiences, such as the Burj Khalifa, Louvre Abu Dhabi, or a sunset show cruise

As the World's no.1 rated golf tour operator, we’ll help craft your perfect UAE golf escape, whether it’s a Dubai city break, a coastal retreat, or a multi-emirate golf adventure across the UAE.

Golf travel tips for UAE

Best months for golfing weather:

November to February

Best months for value:

September & May

Most popular months:

November, January & February

Our experts recommend:

October & March

The UAE’s hidden gems

Beyond the fairways, the United Arab Emirates offers a captivating mix of modern luxury, cultural treasures, and breathtaking desert and coastal scenery. From the glittering skyline of Dubai to the serene shores of Abu Dhabi and the laid-back beaches of Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, this is a destination that delivers far more than just championship golf.

Popular golf holiday types in the UAE

  • Luxury golf holidays – Combine five-star accommodation, world-class golf, and indulgent spa and dining experiences for the ultimate high-end getaway. Stay at elegant resorts such as The St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Park Hyatt Dubai, or Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah for the perfect balance of golf and glamour.
  • Golf & city trips – Ideal for those who love vibrant urban energy. Tee off at Dubai Hills, Emirates Golf Club, or Dubai Creek, then explore Dubai’s shopping malls, rooftop lounges, and beach clubs. In Abu Dhabi, enjoy championship golf followed by a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
  • Golf tours – Experience the region’s best courses in one seamless itinerary. Combine Dubai with nearby emirates such as Abu Dhabi, Ajman, or Ras Al Khaimah for a diverse golf adventure.
  • Group golf trips – The UAE is perfect for groups, with premium resorts, nightlife, and plenty of entertainment after golf. From Topgolf evenings to rooftop bars and desert safaris, it’s easy to combine great golf with memorable social experiences.
  • Night golf in the UAE – Experience the magic of golf under the lights with cooler temperatures, stunning skyline views, and championship courses open until midnight. Perfect for golfers seeking a unique and unforgettable way to play in the desert city.

Beyond the fairways in the UAE

  • Dubai – A playground of modern marvels. Visit the Burj Khalifa, shop at The Dubai Mall, or take a sunset cruise around Palm Jumeirah. For evening fun, head to Topgolf Dubai or enjoy rooftop cocktails with skyline views.
  • Abu Dhabi – The cultural heart of the UAE. Explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, relax on Saadiyat Island’s beaches, or visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. On Yas Island, you’ll find Ferrari World, Warner Bros World, and vibrant nightlife along the waterfront.
  • Ras Al Khaimah – A peaceful coastal retreat surrounded by desert and mountains. Play Al Hamra Golf Club, relax at beachfront resorts, or seek adventure with a zipline experience on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak.
  • Ajman – The UAE’s hidden gem, just a short drive from Dubai. Play the scenic Al Zorah Golf Club, stroll along pristine beaches, or enjoy the relaxed charm of the emirate’s smaller resorts and local markets.
  • Desert adventures – Go dune bashing in a 4x4, ride camels across golden sands, or take a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the desert for an unforgettable view of the dunes and distant skyline.
  • Dining & nightlife – From Michelin-starred restaurants and beach clubs in Dubai to seaside dining in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s culinary scene is world-class. Try Arabic, Indian, or international cuisine, then unwind at stylish rooftop bars or luxury lounges.

FAQs

Why book with Golfbreaks?

  • Tick icon Trusted experts
    Over 25 years’ experience sending more than 3.5 million golfers away
  • Tick icon Extensive choice
    With thousands of experiences worldwide, there's a golf break for every golfer.
  • Tick icon Unbeatable value
    We always offer the best value for money, with no hidden costs or extra admin fees.
  • Tick icon Safe & secure
    We're ATOL & ABTOT bonded so your booking is always protected & your money is secure.
  • Tick icon Excellent service
    We're here 7 days a week offering advice & support whilst saving you time & money.
  • Tick icon Loyalty rewards
    Save money off future trips with Breakpoints & access exclusive competitions, discounts & promotions.
  • Tick icon Total flexibility
    Tailor every aspect of your trip, from travel dates & tee times to room types & extras.
  • Tick icon Seamless journey
    Plan, manage & organise with ease through our app, your entire golf break in one place.
  • Tick icon Excellent service
    We're here 7 days a week offering advice & support whilst saving you time & money.
  • Tick icon Loyalty rewards
    Save money off future trips with Breakpoints & access exclusive competitions, discounts & promotions.
  • Tick icon Total flexibility
    Tailor every aspect of your trip, from travel dates & tee times to room types & extras.
  • Tick icon Seamless journey
    Plan, manage & organise with ease through our app, your entire golf break in one place.
  • Tick icon Trusted experts
    Over 25 years’ experience sending more than 3.5 million golfers away
  • Tick icon Extensive choice
    With thousands of experiences worldwide, there's a golf break for every golfer.
  • Tick icon Unbeatable value
    We always offer the best value for money, with no hidden costs or extra admin fees.
  • Tick icon Safe & secure
    We're ATOL & ABTOT bonded so your booking is always protected & your money is secure.
  • Tick icon Excellent service
    We're here 7 days a week offering advice & support whilst saving you time & money.
  • Tick icon Loyalty rewards
    Save money off future trips with Breakpoints & access exclusive competitions, discounts & promotions.
  • Tick icon Total flexibility
    Tailor every aspect of your trip, from travel dates & tee times to room types & extras.
  • Tick icon Seamless journey
    Plan, manage & organise with ease through our app, your entire golf break in one place.
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