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Qiddiya City Set to Revolutionize Golfing: Why Saudi Arabia’s New Destination Will Be the Ultimate Golf Hub by 2026



Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Qiddiya City, a short 40-minute drive from Riyadh, is aiming to be among the most thrilling golf destinations in the world. Qiddiya, a city being built by humankind’s very first city, is truly contributing to change the sports and entertainment face of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Now, with news of a major new partnership with the Faldo Series and the introduction of an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo, the city appears set to become a force in the world of golf.

The vision for Qiddiya City is clear: it aims to become the premier destination for golfers of all ages and skill levels, offering world-class facilities, innovative designs, and exceptional experiences. The announcement that Qiddiya will host events for the Faldo Series, one of the most influential pathways for young golfers, is a pivotal step in establishing the city as a regional hub for youth golf in the kingdom. The Faldo Series partnership further underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to nurturing the next generation of golf talent.

Qiddiya’s Partnership with the Faldo Series

Qiddiya City’s new partnership with the Faldo Series marks a significant milestone for the city and for Saudi Arabia’s sporting landscape. The Faldo Series is renowned for providing pathways for young golfers, and its collaboration with Qiddiya ensures that the kingdom will be at the forefront of promoting the sport to its youth.

Qiddiya City is set to be a host venue for Faldo Series events in Saudi Arabia, with the city playing a major role in supporting grassroots golf within the kingdom and internationally. By nurturing young talent through these events, Qiddiya hopes to create a sustainable, long-term legacy for golf in the region. This partnership aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country’s sports offerings and promote active lifestyles among its citizens.

The Sir Nick Faldo Signature Golf Course: A Game-Changer for Saudi Golf

A centerpiece of Qiddiya City’s vision to become a global golfing hub is the Sir Nick Faldo signature-designed 18-hole championship golf course. Set to open in 2026, this stunning course will be nestled against the dramatic Tuwaiq Mountains, with breathtaking views of the towering 200-meter cliffs that create a unique and challenging landscape for golfers. The course is designed to cater to players of all levels, offering a combination of traditional golf elements and innovative entertainment experiences.

The course will feature a number of unique design features, including a ‘3-hole return’ layout, which aims to make the game more accessible for players of all abilities, encouraging greater participation. This accessibility is part of Qiddiya City’s broader ambition to make golf more inclusive and appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts, from beginners to professionals.

State-of-the-Art Golfing Facilities

In addition to the new golf course, Qiddiya will also offer a state-of-the-art clubhouse, practice facilities, and a golf academy, all designed to support players in every stage of their golfing journey. Slated to open in 2028, the facilities will provide an unparalleled environment for golfers to practice, learn, and refine their skills.

The clubhouse will be a hub of activity, providing everything from fitness and wellness amenities to meeting spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, and dining options. Designed to be both a social and wellness hub, the clubhouse will attract over 200,000 visitors annually, making it a central point for not just golfers, but also sports enthusiasts and visitors seeking leisure and relaxation.

The golf academy will feature cutting-edge instruction facilities, aimed at providing tailored learning experiences for newcomers, young players, and those looking to improve their game. This comprehensive approach ensures that Qiddiya is fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement for golfers at all levels.

Sustainability and Innovation in Design

The architecture of the golf facilities, particularly the clubhouse and practice range, fuses high-end design with sustainability. The courses will be designed with an emphasis on protecting the environment and providing a perfect fit within the desert while offering premier-play golf. Utilizing floodlighting for late play extends the course’s convenience and availability to all golfers day and night.

Qiddiya’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the golf course. As a key part of the city’s development, the golf facilities will serve as an example of how innovation and environmental consciousness can come together in the world of sports. The green-roofed structure connecting the various facilities will offer a visually stunning and functional space that invites both spectators and participants to experience the best of Qiddiya’s world-class offerings.

Qiddiya City: More Than Just Golf

Qiddiya City is one of the world’s largest urban developments, spanning 360 square kilometers. The city’s master plan includes more than 20 districts dedicated to entertainment, sports, culture, residential spaces, and hospitality. In addition to the golf course, the city will feature a variety of sports and cultural attractions, including the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will host major events, such as the 2034 World Cup, and the Speed Park Track, designed for motorsports.

The addition of the Mercedes AMG World of Performance, an immersive experience center, and the Performing Arts Center ensures that Qiddiya will be a hub for cultural events, sports fans, and tourists from around the globe.

Looking Ahead: A Premier Golfing Destination

Finally, the combined proximity to Riyadh, excellent access to the surrounding area and an ethos of innovation and inclusivity mean Qiddiya City has all the hallmarks of becoming a must-visit destination for golf fans and holidaymakers alike. Its dedication to the development of the golf industry, access to its elite facilities and stunning sceneries make it an influential force in the lead up to the 2010 PGA event. As work on the signature golf course continues and new partnerships continue to develop, Qiddiya’s dream to be the heart of golf in Saudi Arabia is on track.

For golf fans and visitors, Qiddiya City presents a vision of tomorrow where play and sport flow throughout a rich and luxurious world-class setting, providing an experience equally as fulfilling as it is thrilling. So whether you’re an accomplished pro looking to lower your score or a novice keen to tee it up, Qiddiya will soon provide the ideal backdrop for an amazing round of golf.