A Luxurious Golfing Gem in Saudi Arabia
Introduction
Situated along the pristine Red Sea coast, Royal Greens Golf & Country Club stands as one of the most luxurious and prestigious golf courses in the Middle East. Located in King Abdullah Economic City, Saudi Arabia, this stunning course blends world-class design, breathtaking coastal scenery, and a championship-caliber challenge that attracts elite players from around the world. Whether hosting prestigious international tournaments or offering a first-class experience for golf enthusiasts, Royal Greens is a must-visit destination for those seeking the ultimate golf experience.
General Information
Full Name: Royal Greens Golf & Country Club
Location: King Abdullah Economic City, Saudi Arabia
Year Established: 2017
Course Designer: European Golf Design
Designed by European Golf Design, Royal Greens is a par-72 championship course that seamlessly integrates modern golf architecture with the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape and coastal views. As one of the leading golf destinations in the region, it serves as the home of high-profile events, including the Saudi International and Aramco Team Series.
What Makes Royal Greens Unique?
Unique Features
Royal Greens offers a world-class golfing experience, boasting a meticulously maintained course with undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and pristine greens. The combination of desert terrain and sea views makes it one of the most visually striking courses in the world.
Course Type: Championship Parkland
Number of Holes: 18 (Par 72)
Total Yardage: 7,010 yards
Signature Holes and Standout Features
- Hole 16 (Par 3, 165 yards) – A breathtaking island green surrounded by the Red Sea, offering one of the most picturesque views in golf.
- Hole 18 (Par 5, 607 yards) – A dramatic risk-reward finishing hole featuring water hazards and a stunning amphitheater-style setting.
- Fast, Sloping Greens – The putting surfaces at Royal Greens are among the fastest and most challenging in the region, requiring precision and skill.
- Coastal Wind Challenges – The course layout is designed to embrace the natural elements, making wind a significant strategic factor in play.
Tournaments & Legacy
Major Tournaments Hosted
Royal Greens has quickly become a premier tournament venue, attracting some of the biggest names in professional golf. Key events include:
- Saudi International (European Tour & Asian Tour) – Since 2019
- Aramco Saudi Ladies International (Ladies European Tour) – Since 2020
- Aramco Team Series – Since 2021
Historic Moments
- Dustin Johnson’s 2019 Victory – The former World No. 1 claimed the inaugural Saudi International title in dominant fashion.
- Harold Varner III’s Iconic Eagle (2022) – One of the most dramatic tournament finishes in recent memory, Varner III sank a 92-foot eagle putt on the 18th to claim victory.
- Lydia Ko’s Record-Breaking Performance (2023) – The New Zealand star shot an incredible 21-under-par to dominate the Saudi Ladies International.
Champions of the Last Decade
Saudi International – Recent Winners
- 2024 – Abraham Ancer (-19)
- 2023 – Brooks Koepka (-14)
- 2022 – Harold Varner III (-13)
- 2021 – Dustin Johnson (-15)
- 2020 – Graeme McDowell (-12)
Aramco Saudi Ladies International – Recent Winners
- 2024 – Nelly Korda (-20)
- 2023 – Lydia Ko (-21)
- 2022 – Georgia Hall (-16)
- 2021 – Emily Kristine Pedersen (-14)
- 2020 – Lydia Ko (-19)
World-Class Facilities & Membership
Clubhouse & Amenities
- State-of-the-Art Clubhouse – Offers luxury lounges, fine dining, and panoramic course views.
- Exclusive Dining Experiences – The Greenhouse Restaurant serves gourmet cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Wellness & Spa – Premium wellness facilities include massage therapy, a state-of-the-art gym, and a sauna.
Membership & Green Fees
- Exclusive Memberships – Royal Greens offers a private membership program, with access to VIP events and world-class facilities.
- Public Tee Times Available – Visitors can book rounds, with green fees starting at approximately $300 per round.
- Golf Academy – Features cutting-edge swing analysis technology and professional coaching for all skill levels.
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Notable Players Who Have Competed Here
- Dustin Johnson – Multiple-time Saudi International champion and fan favorite.
- Brooks Koepka – Former World No. 1 who claimed victory in 2023.
- Phil Mickelson – Golfing icon and past competitor at Royal Greens.
- Lydia Ko – Set the course record with a 21-under-par performance in 2023.
Course Records
- Lowest Round: 62 (Lydia Ko, 2023 Saudi Ladies International)
- Longest Drive: 402 yards (Bryson DeChambeau, 2022 Pro-Am event)
- Most Birdies in a Single Tournament: 28 (Dustin Johnson, 2019 Saudi International)
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
- A Course Fit for Royalty – Royal Greens has been visited by members of the Saudi Royal Family, as well as international dignitaries and celebrities.
- A Rising Star in Global Golf – The course is quickly climbing the rankings, now considered one of the top golf courses in the Middle East.
- Aramco Team Series Innovation – Royal Greens has hosted one of the most unique formats in professional golf, where male and female professionals compete together in team events.
- Sunset Views Like No Other – The 16th hole at twilight offers one of the most breathtaking sunset views in all of golf, with the Red Sea as a backdrop.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
For golfers seeking a unique and world-class experience, Royal Greens Golf & Country Club offers an unparalleled blend of championship golf, luxury, and breathtaking scenery. Whether testing your skills on the wind-swept fairways, tackling the lightning-fast greens, or simply soaking in the oceanfront views, this course delivers an unforgettable experience.
Rankings & Reviews
- Top 100 Courses in the Middle East – Golf Digest
- Best Golf Courses in Saudi Arabia – Top100GolfCourses.com
- Premier Luxury Golf Resort in the Region – World Golf Awards
With its elite tournaments, unmatched facilities, and championship pedigree, Royal Greens Golf & Country Club is a must-visit destination for every passionate golfer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiastic amateur, this course offers an unforgettable challenge that belongs on every golfer’s bucket list.
