Exploring Saudi Arabia’s Rapid Rise in Golf and Top Courses

Golf’s Flourishing Landscape in Saudi Arabia

Golf in Saudi Arabia has transformed rapidly from a niche pastime into a thriving sport, gaining momentum for its world-class venues and an expanding roster of prestigious tournaments. With courses boasting modern designs situated in diverse and scenic settings, the Kingdom is becoming an impressive destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Significant financial investment and international acclaim have propelled golf’s popularity here, attracting elite players and spectators alike. Saudi Arabia’s inclusion of major events, such as the Saudi International and LIV Golf tournaments, has established its presence prominently on the global golfing stage, regularly drawing household names like Ian Poulter, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau, and Dustin Johnson.

Key Championship Golf Courses

Saudi Arabia’s expanding golf footprint includes some of the region’s most distinguished courses, many of which hold international certifications and frequently host high-profile tournaments.

Additional venues such as Rolling Hills, Ain Nakhl, and Safaa Golf Club at KAUST continue to expand Saudi Arabia’s golf offerings.

High-Profile Tournaments Enhancing the Saudi Golf Scene

The country has become a strategic stop on international men’s and women’s golf tours, bringing world-class competition to its fairways.

• LIV Golf Riyadh (Feb 5–7, 2026): The season opener for the LIV Golf League at Riyadh Golf Club, notable for its unique floodlit evening play hosting stars like Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau.
• PIF Saudi Ladies International (2026 date TBC): A prestigious event on the Ladies European Tour with a record $5 million prize fund, highlighting Riyadh as a top destination for women’s golf.
• PIF Saudi International (Nov 19-22, 2025): Part of Asian and European Tours and featuring international elite talent including Joaquín Niemann.

Historical Context of Golf’s Growth in Saudi Arabia

Although golf is a relatively recent addition to Saudi Arabia’s sports landscape, the country has shown tremendous commitment to elevating the game. Looking back, golf’s roots in the region were quite limited, mostly confined to private clubs and expatriate communities. The past decade, however, has seen an aggressive development of signature golf projects tied to regional economic and tourism diversification plans.

Saudi Arabia’s drive to develop golf parallels global trends where sport tourism becomes a catalyst for international exposure and investment. Adoption of GEO certifications (which certify environmental sustainability in golf) demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to balancing sport and nature—something increasingly vital as Texas-green lawns and course ecosystems require innovative water and land use management.

The Broader Implications for Tourism and Regional Appeal

In a region more traditionally known for desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, golf’s rise symbolizes a new chapter focused on leisure tourism, bolstering Saudi Arabia’s appeal. International tournaments bring global visitors, media attention, and economic activity, complementing other tourist draws within the Kingdom.

With its strategic location and investment in infrastructure, Saudi Arabia is poised to become a serious competitor among golf destinations not only in the Middle East but globally. This momentum is likely to inspire more local talent, stimulate grassroots development programs, and cement the country’s reputation as a hub where modern sports, entertainment, and natural beauty converge.

Golf and Sailing: A Growing Synergy in Regional Tourism

While golf and sailing may appear as distinct leisure activities, their coexistence in vibrant tourist regions often plays into complementary lifestyle trends. Coastal developments such as Shura Island’s upcoming golf course could blend perfectly with nearby marinas and water sports, potentially attracting visitors who enjoy both sun-drenched beaches and championship sports.

For enthusiasts who love yachting and boating, destinations combining golf courses with scenic waterfronts offer a compelling package. Luxurious resorts with access to clear waters for sailing, fishing, or just boating around alongside superb golf facilities create ideal settings for multi-activity vacations.

Forecast for Golf’s Role in Saudi Tourism

Given current trajectories, golf will continue cementing its role as a pivotal element in Saudi Arabia’s tourism diversification. With major events anchoring international attention and new high-end courses enriching the landscape, golf is becoming a powerful magnet for affluent travelers and sports tourists. This bodes well for expanding related services, including yachting and other marine activities along the Saudi coastlines.

Summary and Conclusion

Saudi Arabia’s golf sector is on an exciting upward trajectory: from establishing world-class courses such as Royal Greens and Riyadh Golf Club to winning international tournaments that draw elite global players. Alongside investment in sustainability and unique course experiences like the wildlife-integrated Nofa Golf Resort, the Kingdom is painting itself as a modern sports destination. The intertwining of golf with emerging coastal tourism hints at a bright future where visitors can enjoy diverse activities ranging from competitive golf to sailing and yacht charter.

For those interested in golf alongside ocean-side adventures, Saudi Arabia’s evolving scene offers an intriguing combination of sun, sport, and sea. For travelers drawn to such dynamic destinations, the international platform GetBoat.com provides an excellent marketplace to explore and rent sailing boats and yachts, perfectly complementing the rich experience offered by golf and coastal leisure activities in this remarkable region.