400 courses. 320 days of sunshine. Spain has been the default European golf destination for decades, and it hasn’t coasted on reputation alone – the Costa del Sol, nicknamed the Costa del Golf, keeps building, keeps improving, and keeps drawing the best players and the most discerning travellers on the continent. From the Ryder Cup legacy of Valderrama to the Atlantic links of Galicia, you can play a different style of golf every day of a two-week trip and never feel like you’ve exhausted it.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November.
Nearest airport: Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), gateway to the Costa del Sol. Madrid Barajas (MAD) and Barcelona El Prat (BCN) for other regions.
Flight time from Dubai: Approx. 7 hours direct.

GOLF COURSES

1. Costa del Sol – Andalusia
• 70+ courses, 18 holes, Par 72
• This is where Spain’s golfing reputation was made and where it continues to be earned. Valderrama – host of the 1997 Ryder Cup and still the benchmark by which every Andalusian course is measured – anchors a stretch of coastline that also takes in world-class venues across Marbella, Sotogrande and Estepona. The sheer concentration of championship layouts within driving distance of each other is unmatched anywhere in Europe, all set against Mediterranean views and the particular pleasure of Andalusian light in the late afternoon

2. Northern Spain & Galicia – Atlantic Links
• Multiple 18-hole layouts across the region
• Serious golfers who think they know Spain often haven’t played the north. The Atlantic coast offers a contrasting links-style experience – lush, green, dramatic, and increasingly on the radar of players looking for something beyond the familiarity of Andalusia. It’s a different country in every sense, and a compelling reason to book a second trip.

WHERE TO STAY

1. Golf Resort Hotels – Costa del Sol
• Rating: ★★★★/★★★★★
• Why it stands out: The Costa del Sol’s accommodation has kept pace with its courses. From Marbella to Sotogrande, golf resort hotels range from four-star functional to genuinely luxurious, many with on-site courses, pools, spas and direct access to multiple championship layouts – all within minutes of each other. SO/ Sotogrande, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, the Marbella Club Hotel and The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa in Benahavís represent the upper tier of the region’s offer.

BEYOND FAIRWAYS

Must-try restaurants & cuisine
• Traditional tapas bars and seafood restaurants in Marbella’s old town remain the most honest introduction to the region – jamón ibérico, fresh fish, paella. This is not a destination where you need a restaurant recommendation as much as a willingness to walk down a side street and sit down.

Cultural highlights
• The Alhambra palace in Granada is one of the most visited monuments in the world, and it earns every visitor.
• Seville’s historic centre, Córdoba’s Mezquita and the whitewashed villages of the Pueblos Blancos complete an Andalusian cultural itinerary that would justify the flight on its own, even without the golf.

Activities & experiences
• Day trip to Granada’s Alhambra palace.
• Explore the whitewashed villages of the Pueblos Blancos.
• Marina and beach life at Puerto Banús.
• Ferry to Tangier from Tarifa for a short North Africa excursion.

Local tip
• Book tee times three to four weeks in advance during peak spring and autumn seasons. A handicap certificate is required at most Spanish courses – bring documentation.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average green fee
• EUR 50-250 per round, depending on course and season.
Getting around
• Car hire recommended for course-hopping.
• Taxis and ride-hailing are widely available in resort towns.
Currency
• Euro (EUR).
Language
• Spanish.
• English is widely spoken in resort areas.

spain.info/en/top/golfing-spain

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The arrival of Wells as Golf Course Superintendent and Samonte as Assistant Golf Course Superintendent marks the next chapter in the evolution of Shura Links, Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course, as the destination continues to build its reputation for exceptional playing conditions and a premier golfing destination at The Red Sea.

Harry Wells – Shura Links

Wells joins Shura Links from Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, where he served as Golf Course Superintendent and oversaw the maintenance and presentation of one of the Middle East’s most prestigious golfing venues. Originally from Hertfordshire, England, Wells grew up in the industry, inspired by his father who spent many years as a golf course manager in the United Kingdom.

Dubai Creek Resort, Dubai, UAE

Harry Wells built his experience at leading golf facilities across the UK, Australia, and the United States before joining Dubai Golf in 2020. After moving to Dubai Creek as Assistant Superintendent, he was promoted to Golf Course Superintendent in 2022 and later oversaw preparations for a DP World Tour event.

“Shura Links is a truly unique golf destination, and the opportunity to oversee agronomic operations at Saudi Arabia’s first island golf course is both an exciting challenge and a responsibility. Our focus will be on continuing to deliver exceptional playing conditions, developing the team, and implementing sustainable practices that support the long-term success of the facility. I look forward to working closely with Pat [Samonte] and the wider team as we continue to enhance the golf experience for our guests.”

Patrick Samonte – Shura Links

Joining Wells is highly respected turf professional Pat Samonte, who brings more than 16 years of experience in golf course construction, irrigation management, and course operations. 

Al Mouj Golf Course, Muscat, Oman

Samonte began his career at Port Royal Golf Course in Bermuda, where he played a key role during the renovation and grow-in phase before being appointed Lead Irrigation Technician. Since 2011, he has been part of the team at Al Mouj Golf in Oman, initially serving as Irrigation Foreman during the construction of the acclaimed Greg Norman-designed course before being promoted to Assistant Golf Course Superintendent in 2022.

Throughout his career, Samonte has developed a wealth of expertise in irrigation systems, agronomic programmes, staff development, course renovations, and operational management.

He has also contributed to the successful delivery of several international tournaments, including events on the DP World Tour and the Asian Tour’s The International Series.

Jon Brook – General Manager Shura Links

General Manager at Shura Links, Jon Brook said: “Harry and Pat bring an outstanding combination of leadership, technical expertise and international experience to Shura Links. Both have built impressive careers at some of the industry’s most respected golf facilities and have demonstrated a commitment to excellence throughout their professional journeys.

“Their appointments reinforce our ambition to attract top talent and continue building a team capable of supporting the long-term success of Shura Links as a leading golf destination in the Kingdom.”

Designed by Brian Curley and located on Shura Island at The Red Sea, the course combines a distinctive coastal links experience with Red Sea Global’s commitment to regenerative tourism and environmental stewardship.

The appointments of Wells and Samonte solidify Shura Links’ commitment to delivering exceptional playing conditions, sustainable course management practices, and a world-class golf experience for guests from around the world.

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Held at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre on June 8 and 9, Futurescape Global brought together all aspects of landscaping that enhance outdoor living and wellness and promote sustainable development, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Richard Allen, EcoBunker’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “We were privileged to be chosen as part of the team creating the incredible golf course at Royal Golf Club Wadi Safar, a short distance from the convention.

“Having seen first-hand the standards expected when working in the Kingdom, and the sustainable credentials necessary to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, we know that our technologies are a wonderful fit for projects in the region.”

EcoBunker showcased its latest pre-cut synthetic bunker technology at the event, demonstrating how it helps halve on-site build time while delivering all of the maintenance reductions, erosion control and sustainability expected from EcoBunker solutions.

Also on display was EcoBunker’s proprietary bunker liner, Ecotec, along with its AquaEdge lake edging, which was used to great effect on the project at Royal Golf Club Wadi Safar.

Allen said: “By exhibiting at Futurescape, we demonstrated our commitment to helping develop beautiful, sustainable and long-lasting bunker solutions in the Middle East. The event provided an excellent opportunity to connect with the wider industry and demonstrate what EcoBunker technology can do for the long-term planning of sustainable golf developments.”

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The GDME Team

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Set along the stunning coastline of Muscat, Al Mouj Golf offers one of the most scenic and unique golfing experiences in the Middle East.

Al Mouj Golf in Muscat, Oman

Designed by former World Number One golfer Greg Norman, this award-winning, 18-hole championship links course stretches along two kilometres of pristine Gulf of Oman shoreline, combining natural beauty with a challenging yet enjoyable layout for players of all levels.

Known for its immaculate conditioning and dramatic sea views, the course blends traditional links-style play with modern design, featuring rolling fairways, strategic bunkering, and coastal winds that add an exciting dimension to every round.

Sami Välimäki – 2020 Oman Open Champion

Al Mouj Golf has also hosted prestigious international events, on the DP World Tour and Asian Tour, further cementing its position on the global golfing stage.

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READ MORE: Where To Play

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Cover star Chris Gotterup shares an honest look at the swing thoughts, misses and practice habits he’s working through, reminding us that even tour winners battle the same frustrations as everyday golfers.

We also explore the evolving world of professional golf, from Luis Masaveau’s move to LIV Golf to The Undercover Pro’s candid take on life beyond the PGA Tour rumour mill. Behind the scenes, we examine the changing face of tour life through the lens of the European Tour Performance Institute and the realities of making a living as a golf professional.

Closer to home, Golf During a Conflict looks at the resilience of the Middle East golf scene, while our travel features visit Al Mouj Golf and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club ahead of the 2026 U.S. Open.

Instruction remains central, with lessons from J. J. Spaun, Aaron Rai and Phil Mickelson, plus our 2026 Hot List guide to the year’s best golf balls. We also continue celebrating regional golf through The Gulf Club and standout performances from across the Middle East.

All this and plenty more in the June 2026 edition of Golf Digest Middle East.

The issue is again free to our loyal audience. You can scroll through the ISSUU link provided here or download it to your favourite device for later. Alternatively, pick up a copy at your local golf club. Whatever option you take, we hope you enjoy the read.

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Blending sport, history, and global tourism, the golf course at Mena House is one of the few places in the world where golf is played in the shadow of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The partnership between Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) and RTJ II reflects a shared commitment to elevating the course’s international profile while preserving its distinctive legacy.

Mena House has held a singular place in Egypt’s hospitality and sporting history since the late 19th century, when it began as a royal hunting lodge before opening to guests in the 1880s. For generations, its setting beside the Great Pyramid has drawn travelers, dignitaries, and golf enthusiasts from around the world.

Golf has been played at Mena House since 1899, making the course one of Egypt’s oldest golf venues. Its proximity to the Pyramids gives it a character unmatched anywhere else in the world.

The redesign will honor that history while reshaping Mena House for today’s golfers and resort guests. RTJ II’s plan introduces a more flexible golf experience with multiple ways to play, broadening the course’s appeal to families, juniors, and international visitors.

“Mena House Golf Course is unlike any other golf destination in the world. It combines heritage, hospitality, and one of the most iconic settings imaginable,” said Omar Hisham Talaat, Chief Business Development Officer for TMG. “With the Giza Pyramids as its backdrop, the course offers an extraordinary opportunity to create a golf experience that is both globally distinctive and deeply rooted in Egypt’s cultural legacy.”

“Golf is a key part of our broader vision for sustainable development and healthy lifestyles,” Talaat said. “As we continue to grow our golf portfolio—which includes Madinaty Golf Club, the 18-hole SouthMED course on Egypt’s North Coast, and Sharm Bay in Sharm El Sheikh—we see Mena House as a crown jewel, one that deserves the highest level of design excellence and international attention.”

“This partnership builds on our successful collaboration with RTJ II, which previously designed the Madinaty and SouthMED golf courses,” Talaat said. “It reflects our confidence in their global expertise and ability to deliver a world-class golfing experience.”

Trent Jones III, Chief Operating Officer of RTJ II, emphasised the importance of honouring the site’s legacy while shaping its future. “This is one of the most meaningful sites for golf anywhere in the world.  We are honoured to steward a course with more than 125 years of history and to shape its next chapter with care, precision, and creativity,” Jones said. “Our vision is to embrace the history of this awe-inspiring setting as golfers play beneath the 4700-year-old Pyramids. Mena House has all the ingredients that make golf memorable: history, landscape, atmosphere, and a setting people will never forget. Our focus is on designing a course that belongs in that place.”

Known for its unmatched views, each hole at Mena House offers dramatic perspectives of the pyramids, creating a playing experience that is as memorable as it is challenging. The renovation will further elevate the guest experience through thoughtful enhancements and upgraded infrastructure—all designed to maintain the course’s identity while meeting the expectations of today’s international golf traveller. 

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Delta Hotels St. Pierre Country Club

The deal includes Delta Hotels Breadsall Priory Country Club, Delta Hotels St. Pierre Country Club and Delta Hotels Tudor Park Country Club — all operated by Marriott International under its Delta Hotels brand.

Together, the resorts comprise 380 hotel rooms across more than 900 acres of countryside estate, further strengthening Select Group’s growing UK leisure portfolio. The Dubai-headquartered company now controls five UK golf resorts with more than 530 rooms, following earlier acquisitions of Old Thorns Hotel & Resort in Hampshire and The Mere Golf Resort & Spa in Cheshire.

Delta Hotels Tudor Park Country Club

While the value of the latest transaction was undisclosed, property data linked to the previous sale of the assets suggests the three resorts were collectively valued at close to £39 million in 2024. Breadsall Priory reportedly changed hands for £9.8 million, Tudor Park for £10.9 million and St. Pierre for £18.2 million as part of a wider £869 million UK hotel portfolio deal involving KKR and Baupost.

Founded in Dubai in 2002, Select Group has become one of the UAE’s most prominent private developers, delivering more than 20 million sq ft of residential and mixed-use projects across the UAE, Europe and the UK. Its developments include Six Senses Residences Dubai Marina and the Peninsula waterfront project in Business Bay.

The acquisition also underlines growing Gulf investor appetite for UK hospitality assets, particularly golf and wellness resorts, which are increasingly viewed as resilient long-term investments tied to experiential travel trends.

Israr Liaqat, chief executive of Select Group, described the UK golf resort sector as “a compelling long-term asset class”, citing the resorts’ established brands, large estates and loyal customer bases.

Select Group said it plans to invest in operational upgrades across the three properties, including enhancements to golf operations, wellness facilities, events and guest experience, while Marriott International will continue to manage the resorts.

Industry forecasts estimate the global golf tourism market will grow from US$24.8 billion in 2026 to US$39.2 billion by 2036, driven by rising demand for integrated leisure and wellness destinations.

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Beyond golf, the venue is designed as a hospitality-forward sports bar and entertainment destination

Positioned near DIFC, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall, the new location at Damac Towers by Paramount is an approximately 6,500 sq ft venue designed to serve professionals, residents, and visitors seeking a high-quality environment for recreation, networking, and events in the heart of the city. The location is also well-positioned to cater to Dubai’s growing demand for indoor, experience-led venues that offer year-round entertainment, particularly during the summer months. 

The new venue features five Trackman-powered simulators with multi-angle swing analysis and access to hundreds of world-renowned courses, providing opportunities to practise, play, and compete year-round – regardless of weather conditions. Complementing the golf experience, the venue includes three multisport simulators offering interactive gameplay across sports such as football and disc golf, along with skill-based challenges designed for groups of all levels. A private simulator room offers a space for small groups, client entertaining, and corporate gatherings, while flexible booking options support everything from casual play to league participation as well as private events. Guests can evaluate their equipment and test the latest technology through Callaway club fitting experiences, creating a clear path from practice to performance.

“We have been very deliberate in selecting the location for our second Five Iron in Dubai, and Business Bay stood out as a natural fit,” said David Zabinsky, Managing Partner of Five Iron Golf UAE. “With its proximity to major office hubs and residential communities, this venue allows us to better serve Dubai’s after-work and social crowd, while continuing to offer a high-quality, accessible golf and entertainment experience.”

The new venue in Business Bay introduces Five Iron’s signature blend of technology-driven golf, premium hospitality, and social entertainment

Beyond golf, the venue is designed as a hospitality-forward sports bar and entertainment destination, featuring a full-service bar, lounge-style seating, and interactive games including pool and darts. The space reflects Five Iron’s modern design aesthetic, balancing elevated finishes with an energetic social atmosphere suited for after-work gatherings, client meetings, group outings, and private events.

“Dubai continues to be one of the most dynamic markets in the world for hospitality-driven entertainment concepts,” said Jared Solomon, Co-Founder and CEO of Five Iron Golf. “The success of our first Dubai location in Dubai Marina confirmed strong demand for an experience that blends technology, sport, and social connection. Expanding into Business Bay allows us to further serve a global audience of professionals, residents, and visitors seeking a premium, welcoming environment to play, practise, and connect.”

 

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Five Iron Golf first entered the UAE market with its flagship location at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina in 2024, establishing strong demand for technology-enabled golf and social experience in the region. The Business Bay opening represents a strategic expansion within the neighbourhood’s commercial core, positioning Five Iron to serve both business and leisure audiences in one of the city’s most globally connected districts.

Backed by leading investors including Callaway Golf and Danny Meyer’s Enlightened Hospitality Investments, Five Iron Golf operates more than 40 locations globally and continues to grow across major cities in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.

The Business Bay location is now open and accepting reservations for simulator play, private events, corporate functions, and group bookings.

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Developed in partnership with Himalayas Golf, the project aims to recreate and celebrate some of the most iconic par-3 holes in world golf within a single destination — a concept that organisers believe will be unlike anything previously seen in India.

17th Hole TPC Sawgrass

Among the legendary holes set to inspire the course design are the iconic 17th at TPC Sawgrass and the world-famous 12th at Augusta National Golf Club.

Will Zalatoris hits his tee shot into the 12th hole during the final round of the Masters – JD Cuban

Kapur, now based in Dubai, graduated from Purdue University before turning professional in 2004. Over the course of his career, he claimed seven professional victories across the Asian Tour, HotelPlanner Tour and the PGTI between 2005 and 2021. One of the highlights of his career came at the 2014 U.S. Open, where he made the cut and finished tied for 23rd — his best finish in a major championship.

Speaking about the vision behind Emgee Greens, Kapur said:

“I don’t think India has seen anything like this. The whole idea of the design is to bring the greatest par 3’s from around the world into one specific geographic location and bring India its first par-3 golf course.”

Asian Tour

“Golf is learned backwards — you chip and putt first, then you learn how to drive the ball — so I think we are onto something there.”

Himalayas Golf, known for designing and building sustainable facilities that deliver authentic golf experiences in innovative environments, described the project as “The World’s Greatest Par 3s. All in One Place.”

“We’re working hard on a new Par-3 course in partnership with one of India’s most decorated golfers, Shiv Kapur, in the beautiful mountainous area of Lonavala, India — just outside Mumbai. India has never seen anything like this,” the company said in a statement.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Lonavala’s mountain landscape, Emgee Greens is expected to offer a unique golfing experience focused on accessibility, entertainment and short-game development, while helping introduce a new generation of players to the sport in India.

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