Dubai Desert Golf Classic

Sports Venue

Dubai Desert Golf Classic

The Dubai Desert Classic is a prestigious European Tour golf tournament held annually at the Majlis Course of Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Established in 1989, it was the first European Tour event to be staged in the Arabian Peninsula and has since become a major highlight on the golfing calendar known as the "Major of the Middle East."

The tournament initially took place at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club in 1999 and 2000 but has otherwise been hosted exclusively at Emirates Golf Club, renowned for its challenging layout and iconic desert setting.

The event has attracted some of the world's top golfers, including legends like Seve Ballesteros, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Ernie Els, who have multiple victories here. Rory McIlroy holds the record for the youngest winner at age 19 when he clinched the title in 2009.

The tournament has gained a reputation for offering a significant prize fund and attracting a strong international field, a testament to Dubai’s global sporting ambitions. Over the years, it has also been part of the Rolex Series on the DP World Tour, reflecting its elevated status.

The Dubai Desert Classic plays a pivotal role in promoting golf tourism in Dubai and the wider region, showcasing the emirate as a world-class sporting destination. It is also notable for being one of the first golf events broadcast live on the Golf Channel.

The tournament has witnessed memorable moments and intense competition across its history, contributing substantially to the growth of golf in the Middle East. The 2025 edition continues the legacy of the event, drawing global attention to Dubai and enhancing its image as a premier venue for sports and entertainment.

Dubai is the perfect blend of culture, innovation, and tourism.

Taleb Rifai

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