Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Jeddah & Makkah Province
Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses
Jeddah and the Makkah Province are rapidly establishing themselves as significant golfing destinations. The courses here blend stunning coastal views with challenging layouts, often adapted to the local terrain. The emphasis is on maintaining lush fairways even during the hotter months, a testament to innovative irrigation techniques.
1. Jeddah Club ( نادي جدة الغولف):
- Signature Hole: The par-3 16th, playing over a water hazard with the Red Sea as a dramatic backdrop. The design cleverly incorporates natural dunes, providing strategic challenges.
- Design Notes: A classic links-style course adapted to the desert environment. The undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers demand accuracy.
- Local Significance: Jeddah Club is a historic institution, deeply ingrained in the local golfing community. It's a popular venue for tournaments and a place where generations of Saudi golfers have honed their skills.
- Green Fee: SAR 350 - SAR 450 (USD 93 - USD 120)
- Terrain Adaptation: Extensive use of drought-resistant grasses and efficient irrigation systems.
2. Royal Saudi Golf Club ( نادي الملكي للغولف):
- Signature Hole: The challenging par-5 17th, requiring a long, accurate drive to reach the green.
- Design Notes: A modern championship course with a focus on strategic bunkering and water hazards. The layout is designed to test golfers of all skill levels.
- Local Significance: This course hosts prestigious national and international tournaments, showcasing Saudi Arabia's growing prominence in the golfing world.
- Green Fee: SAR 400 - SAR 550 (USD 106 - USD 145)
- Terrain Adaptation: Utilizes a mix of imported and locally adapted grasses, with a strong emphasis on water conservation.
3. AlMouj Golf ( مالجولف):
- Signature Hole: The dramatic par-3 12th, perched above a ravine with stunning views of the Red Sea.
- Design Notes: A visually stunning course with a challenging layout and well-maintained greens. The design incorporates natural features to create a unique golfing experience.
- Local Significance: AlMouj Golf is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of challenging play and beautiful scenery.
- Green Fee: SAR 300 - SAR 400 (USD 80 - USD 107)
- Terrain Adaptation: Features a variety of grasses suited to the coastal environment, with careful attention to drainage.
4. The Banyan Golf Club ( نادي بانيان للغولف):
- Signature Hole: The demanding par-4 15th, requiring a precise approach shot to a heavily guarded green.
- Design Notes: A lush, tropical-themed course with a challenging layout and well-manicured fairways.
- Local Significance: The Banyan Golf Club offers a relaxing and luxurious golfing experience, popular with both locals and international visitors.
- Green Fee: SAR 350 - SAR 500 (USD 94 - USD 135)
- Terrain Adaptation: Utilizes a variety of tropical grasses and incorporates extensive landscaping to create a lush environment.
5. Coral Club ( نادي كورال):
- Signature Hole: The picturesque par-5 18th, offering a memorable finish to the round with views of the coastline.
- Design Notes: A well-maintained course with a challenging layout and undulating fairways.
- Local Significance: Coral Club is a popular choice for local golfers, offering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- Green Fee: SAR 250 - SAR 350 (USD 67 - USD 94)
- Terrain Adaptation: Features a mix of grasses suited to the coastal environment, with a focus on drainage.
6. Dana Golf ( نادي دانا للغولف):
- Signature Hole: The strategic par-4 12th, requiring careful planning to navigate the bunkers and water hazards.
- Design Notes: A challenging course with a well-designed layout and fast greens.
- Local Significance: Dana Golf is a popular choice for serious golfers, offering a demanding test of skill.
- Green Fee: SAR 300 - SAR 400 (USD 80 - USD 107)
- Terrain Adaptation: Utilizes a variety of grasses suited to the desert environment, with a focus on water conservation.
7. Arabia Golf ( نادي أравиا للغولف):
- Signature Hole: The visually stunning par-3 14th, with a dramatic approach to a green overlooking a valley.
- Design Notes: A modern course with a challenging layout and well-maintained greens.
- Local Significance: Arabia Golf is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, offering a blend of challenging play and beautiful scenery.
- Green Fee: SAR 350 - SAR 500 (USD 94 - USD 135)
- Terrain Adaptation: Features a variety of grasses suited to the desert environment, with careful attention to drainage.
Hidden Gems
- Al-Safa Golf Club ( نادي الصفاء للغولف): A smaller, more intimate course offering excellent value. It's popular with local golfers and provides a relaxed atmosphere. Green fees are typically around SAR 200-SAR 300 (USD 53-USD 80).
- Jeddah International Golf Club ( نادي جدة الدولي للغولف): A well-kept course with a friendly atmosphere, often overlooked by international visitors. It offers a good value for money. Green fees are around SAR 250-SAR 350 (USD 67-USD 94).
Premium Options
- Royal Saudi Golf Club: As mentioned above, this is the premier venue for serious golfers.
- AlMouj Golf: Offers a luxurious experience with excellent facilities.
Value Champions
- Coral Club: Provides a good balance of quality and affordability.
- Al-Safa Golf Club: Offers excellent value for money.
International Golfer Essentials
Difficulty & Standards
- Handicap Ratings: Saudi Arabia uses the World Handicap System (WHS). Expect handicap ratings to be generally lower than in some European or North American countries, reflecting the prevalence of skilled local players. USGA/R&A slope comparisons are available through the WHS system.
- Local Handicap System: The Saudi Golf Federation maintains its own handicap system, which is used for local tournaments.
Language Considerations
- English Proficiency: English is spoken by many staff members at the more upscale courses and resorts. However, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic Arabic phrases.
- Key Golf Terms:
- "Tee" - "مقدمة" (Muqaddima)
- "Fairway" - "المسار" (Al-Masar)
- "Rough" - "العشب الطويل" (Al-Ashab Al-Taweel)
- "Green" - "البراري" (Al-Barari)
- "Pin" - "الهدف" (Al-Hadaf)
- Communication Tips: A polite greeting like "As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you) is always appreciated.
Cultural Golf Etiquette
- Dress Code: Golf attire is generally smart casual. Men should wear collared shirts and trousers. Women should wear skirts, trousers, or dresses. Modesty is appreciated. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
- Pace of Play: Maintain a reasonable pace of play. Be mindful of other players and avoid dawdling.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Saudi Arabia. However, it is becoming increasingly common to tip caddies for exceptional service.
- Respect for Prayer Times: Be mindful of prayer times, which are announced throughout the day. Quiet and respectful behavior is expected during prayer.
Booking Requirements
- Advance Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- Documentation: A valid passport is required for all visitors. Some courses may require a copy of your driver's license.
- Guest Policies: Most courses allow guests, but it's important to check the specific policy with the course in advance.
Seasonal & Climate Intelligence
Monthly Playing Guide
| Month | Weather | Temperature (Avg.) | Rainfall (mm) | Optimal Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Mild, sunny | 15-20°C | 20-30 | Excellent |
| February | Warm, sunny | 18-25°C | 10-20 | Excellent |
| March | Hotter, sunny | 25-30°C | 5-10 | Good |
| April | Very hot, sunny | 30-35°C | 0-5 | Limited |
| May | Extremely hot, dry | 35-40°C | 0 | Very Limited |
| June | Extremely hot, dry | 38-45°C | 0 | Very Limited |
| July | Extremely hot, dry | 38-45°C | 0 | Very Limited |
| August | Extremely hot, dry | 38-45°C | 0 | Very Limited |
| September | Gradually cooling, sunny | 32-38°C | 5-10 | Good |
| October | Pleasant, sunny | 28-35°C | 0-5 | Excellent |
| November | Mild, sunny | 20-28°C | 10-20 | Excellent |
| December | Mild, sunny | 15-22°C | 20-30 | Excellent |
Peak Season Strategy
- Peak Season: November to March.
- Pricing Fluctuations: Green fees and accommodation prices are significantly higher during peak season.
- Advance Booking: Book tee times and accommodation well in advance (at least 2-3 months).
Off-Season Opportunities
- Shoulder Season: April, May, and September.
- Reduced Rates: Green fees and accommodation prices are lower during the shoulder season.
- Fewer Crowds: Courses are less crowded, providing a more relaxed golfing experience.
Weather Contingencies
- Indoor Facilities: Many courses have covered practice areas and clubhouses.
- Covered Ranges: Driving ranges are often covered, providing protection from the sun.
- Alternative Activities: Explore the historical sites of Jeddah, visit the Red Sea coast, or enjoy the local cuisine.
Practical Travel Integration
Access & Transportation
- Airport Proximity: Jeddah International Airport (JED) is well-connected to major international destinations.
- Rental Car: A rental car is recommended for exploring the region.
- Public Transport: Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Careem) are readily available.
This information should provide a comprehensive overview of golfing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Enjoy your round!