Royal Greens Golf & Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City was the host venue for Saudi Arabia’s maiden European Tour stop in February. It is one of the properties set to benefit from the Troon-Saudi Golf MoU. 

By Kent Gray
Golf Saudi has called in the heavyweights to help lay the foundations for its ambitious development plan for the game across the Kingdom.

Troon, the world’s largest golf management company, has signed a memorandum of understanding deal Saudi Arabia’s governing body to provide strategic insights in areas such as infrastructure development, agronomy, operational planning and financial best practice.

Golf Saudi calls the partnership a statement of intent for its vision, unveiled at the country’s inaugural European Tour stop, the Saudi International powered by SBIA, which was won by Dustin Johnson in February. For their part, Troon has promised to “re-set the dial” and “help create one of the fastest-growing new golf markets in the world.”

Central to the partnership will be the support Troon provides Golf Saudi in the development of its five core pillars, encompassing Access & Infrastructure, Mass Participation, National Team & Elite Development, Events and Tourism.

“Troon will provide us with valuable insights to help set a new benchmark for golf development through our national golf strategy,” said Majed Al-Sorour, CEO, Saudi Golf Federation.

“Their blend of regional expertise, allied with a truly global presence, will allow us to effectively evaluate the implementation of our programme. We look forward to working with them and to growing a vibrant and healthy ecosystem for golf in Saudi Arabia.”

With over 30 years’ experience, Troon provides services to more than 465 locations and over 510 golf courses globally.

“We are proud to associate Troon with one of the world’s most progressive new golf markets,” said Troon Chief Operating Officer Bruce Glasco.

“Saudi Arabia is currently laying robust foundations for its golf programming and with buy-in from the government and local development stakeholders, it is well placed to deliver a truly innovative approach to bringing golf and sport to the Saudi people.

“This is therefore a great opportunity to reset the dial and introduce modern techniques that help create one of the fastest-growing new golf markets in the world.”