The Els Club

At 7,538 yards from the back markers, this par 72 asks for committed tee shots and a sound approach game, yet four sets of tees, from 5,343 to 7,538 yards, make the challenge adaptable for mixed groups. Ernie Els has drawn on British links golf, using broad, undulating fairways, sandy waste areas and native planting to give the course an open feel within Dubai Sports City. The bunkering takes its cue from Royal Melbourne, while the greens have some of the firm-edged character associated with Pinehurst No. 2. There is room from the tee, but shifting elevation, traditional bunker faces and precise putting surfaces mean position matters all the way to the flag.

The conditioning holds up through the year, and the warm up facilities are properly geared towards a full golf day. After golf, 261 Bar & Restaurant looks across the course from its indoor dining room and terrace, serving beers, wines and cocktails alongside live sport. The Big Easy Bar & Grill follows a Western Cape influence, with grilled meats a natural choice after an afternoon on the course.