The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club

Why it is on the list

The Majlis opened in 1988 as the first grass course in the Middle East, laid out by the American architect Karl Litten on dunes set aside by Sheikh Mohammed.¹² The Dubai Desert Classic has been played on it since 1989, the tour's first event in the region and a Rolex Series event since 2022; Ballesteros, Els, Woods and McIlroy are among its winners.³ The course record is Ernie Els's 61, set on 1994-01-27.¹ The round ends on the 18th, a 546-yard par 5 that turns left 90 degrees and asks for a third shot over water.¹

It is the wrong round for a high handicap: the club asks for a certificate, 28 at most for men and 36 for ladies.¹ The club's second course, the Faldo, is next to it.¹ For a day away from golf, take the Royal Platinum Desert Experience instead.

How to get it

Book a tee time through the club: call +971 4 417 9800 or write to ereservations@dubaigolf.com; rates and times are also in the club's Viya app.¹ Peak rates apply Friday to Sunday and on public holidays.¹ The green fee includes a shared cart, except in the walking season, and an hour on the range before play.¹ Clubs can be hired at AED 255 for 18 holes, shoes at AED 90.¹ Wear a collared golf shirt with golf shorts, skirt or trousers and soft spikes; T-shirts, denim, gym clothes, sandals and national dress are not allowed on the course.¹ The club's main line is +971 4 417 9999.⁴

Discretion

Tournament week in January turns the club into a stadium, with the world's leading players and the crowds that follow them; outside it, a round is a visitor's tee time at a members' club.³¹