Course condition
Fairways and greens are repeatedly described as immaculate, with excellent maintenance even through summer.
Dubai Sports City
The Els Club in Dubai Sports City is a championship golf course with a demanding links-style layout, fast greens and deep bunkers. Beyond a round, visitors can book a Stay & Play experience with spacious rooms or settle into the clubhouse restaurants for food, drinks and sunset views.
Source: Google Maps
Fairways and greens are repeatedly described as immaculate, with excellent maintenance even through summer.
Fast, undulating greens, deep bunkers and desert wasteland make this a rewarding test for experienced golfers.
The clubhouse terrace and outdoor areas overlook the course, making sunset drinks a strong reason to visit without playing.
The package includes spacious, comfortable rooms, generous check-in and check-out times, and access to country club facilities.
Reviews mention family gatherings, kids activities and a relaxed setting for dining or watching sports.
The oxtail potjie, steak board and broad restaurant selection give diners more than a post-round snack.
One summer round included iced towels, ice lollies and drinks support in 48-degree heat.
The club can handle large golf groups; one reviewer praised the organisation of a 24-ball booking.
Reserve ahead. Book ahead for larger groups or outdoor seating, especially on busy weekends and evenings.
Plan parking. Allow extra time for parking at weekends and in the evening, when the venue gets busy.
Confirm dogs. Check the current dog policy before arriving; dogs may be accepted outside but not inside.
Know the difficulty. Beginners and medium hitters should expect fast greens, tight lies, bunkers and a demanding layout.
Check padel gear. If booking padel, ask about towels and balls beforehand, as one player received neither.
Try sunset. For a quieter visit, consider sunset; reviewers highlight the serene views, though evenings can become busy.
Plan the visit
| Mon | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Tue | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Wed | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Thu | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Fri | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Sat | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
| Sun | 6:00 AM – 11:30 PM |
Several diners report waiting to order, being overlooked and having tables left uncleared.
Two clubs were placed in another player's bag, and the golfer had to call to locate them.
Dog-friendly messaging proved misleading: dogs were not allowed inside, leaving one party outside in the heat.
One golfer found the green fees expensive relative to the experience.
A padel review cited dim lighting, a worn net, an untidy surface and no towels or balls.
The Bottom Line
The Els Club in Dubai Sports City works on two levels: it is a serious golf venue and a relaxed clubhouse destination. Golfers can play the championship course, use the practice facilities, or book a Stay & Play package with spacious rooms and access to country club facilities. The course is generally praised for immaculate fairways, superb greens and excellent upkeep.
This is not an easy round. Fast, sloping greens, tight lies, deep bunkers and desert wasteland punish imprecision, so less experienced golfers should arrive expecting a proper challenge rather than a gentle introduction. The terrace overlooking the 18th is a standout place to unwind after playing, especially around sunset.
Dining is another draw, with reviewers mentioning the oxtail potjie, steak board, drinks and several restaurant options. Families can use the relaxed setting, kids activities and sports-watching areas, while outdoor seating suits sunset drinks. Service feedback is mixed: some guests describe friendly, attentive staff, but others waited to order or had tables left uncleared.
Reserve outdoor seating or larger groups in advance, and allow extra time for weekend parking. If bringing a dog, confirm the rules first; dogs may be allowed outside but not inside.