
The Els Course
The Els Club


About this course
The Els Club sits in the Dubai Sports City development, a master-planned community in the interior of Dubai that consolidates athletic facilities and residential areas. Designed by Ernie Els and opened in 2008, the course represents the South African major champion's first design project in the Middle East. The layout reflects Els's playing philosophy, emphasizing strategic options and rewarding thoughtful course management over pure length. The course stretches across relatively flat desert terrain that has been shaped and contoured to create definition and movement. Water features appear on several holes, and the design incorporates substantial bunkering with varied depths and shapes. The routing includes risk-reward opportunities on par-fives and drivable par-fours, characteristic of Els's design approach. Fairways are generous enough to accommodate different skill levels, while green complexes feature subtle undulations that require careful reading. The facility operates as a semi-private club with membership available alongside guest play, serving both residents of Dubai Sports City and the broader golfing community in Dubai. The clubhouse provides dining and practice facilities typical of modern Dubai golf developments. The course has hosted professional events on regional tours, contributing to competitive golf in the Emirates. The Els Club functions as part of Dubai's extensive golf infrastructure, offering year-round play in a city that has positioned itself as a golf destination despite its desert climate. Maintenance standards align with expectations for Dubai courses, with irrigation systems supporting consistent playing conditions throughout the calendar.
Quick facts
- Location
- Dubai, AE
- Access
- Public
- Holes
- 18
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,893 metres
- Course Vaults score
- 8.3
Getting there
The Els Club is reached via Dubai International Airport, the region's principal gateway, or the newer Al Maktoum International to the south, both offering seamless connections to the city's modern highway network. Private aviation typically routes through Dubai South or the executive terminals at DXB, placing guests within a swift, air-conditioned drive of the club. The journey south from central Dubai unfolds along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, trading the glittering skyline for the emerging residential districts of Dubai Sports City, where the championship layout rises from the desert in a carefully sculpted oasis of emerald fairways and shimmering lakes.

FAQ
Common questions about The Els
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The Els has a Course Vaults score of 8.3 out of 10 based on 13 logged golfers.
Yes. The Els is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at The Els is 72.
The Els plays 6,893 metres from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The Els is a 18-hole course.



