Arabian Ranches Golf Club

Course overview

A more relaxed and traditional counterpoint to the showier courses of central Dubai, Arabian Ranches Golf club delivers the feel of a desert golf retreat with the convenience of being just 25 minutes from the city’s core.

Design

Designed by lan Baker-Finch in association with Nicklaus Design. This par-72 course offers a walking friendly layout that blends naturally into the surrounding sand dunes and residential community. I really enjoy playing this course as it’s a mix of Arizona-like target golf, inland links and Dubai scenery. Particularly now that the rough is far less penal.

The course’s topography and wide fairways make it enjoyable for a broad range of handicaps.

Scenery

Rather than water features or dramatic elevation changes, the Arabian Ranches course relies on its subtly contoured greens, strategic bunkering, and native desert flora to provide challenge and variety. Sandy waste areas and natural grasses border many holes, contributing to a sense of immersion in the desert environment without punishing less accurate players.

Final Take

Though it’s less known internationally than its high-profile neighbours, Arabian Ranches enjoys a loyal following. Its clubhouse is intimate and welcoming, housing a small hotel. It’s also one of the few clubs in Dubai where walking is genuinely feasible for much of the year. Popular with those looking to escape the glitz for a few rounds of relaxed, quality go in a calm and picturesque setting.