Saudi Arabia and the Rise of Golf

Golf is often associated with traditional powerhouses like the United States, the United Kingdom, and South Africa. Yet, in recent years, one nation has been quietly but steadily making its mark on the global golf scene: Saudi Arabia. From a sport with minimal presence in the Kingdom to hosting world-class tournaments and nurturing emerging talent, Saudi Arabia’s journey in golf reflects both ambition and strategic investment.

Early Beginnings
Golf is relatively new in Saudi Arabia compared to centuries-old traditions of football and camel racing. The sport began to gain traction in the late 20th century, largely in Riyadh and Jeddah, where international expatriates and business communities introduced golf clubs and courses. Initially, golf was seen as an elite pastime, accessible only to a select few. However, the Kingdom’s appetite for diversification and international sports events laid the groundwork for golf’s expansion.

Government and Investment Support
The turning point for golf in Saudi Arabia came with the launch of initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s strategic plan to diversify its economy and promote sports tourism. The Saudi Golf Federation, along with private investors, began building world-class courses, hosting professional tournaments, and offering programs to develop local talent. This ambitious vision included attracting international golf stars and making Saudi Arabia a premier golf destination in the Middle East.

Professional Tournaments and the LIV Golf Revolution
Saudi Arabia’s presence on the professional golf stage was cemented with the introduction of the Saudi International, first held in 2019. Part of the European Tour, this tournament brought top golfers, including major champions, to courses like the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club in King Abdullah Economic City.

More recently, Saudi Arabia has gained global attention through its sponsorship and backing of the LIV Golf series. Funded by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, LIV Golf has challenged traditional tours, attracting some of the biggest names in golf. While controversial due to its financial muscle and the debates around “sportswashing,” the initiative undeniably put Saudi Arabia on the golfing map.

Development of Local Talent
Beyond hosting international tournaments, Saudi Arabia has invested in grassroots programs to encourage local participation. Junior academies, scholarships, and partnerships with international golf organizations aim to develop the next generation of Saudi golfers. The Kingdom’s focus on youth development signals that its ambitions go beyond merely hosting events—it wants to nurture talent that can compete globally.

Looking Ahead
Saudi Arabia’s journey in golf is still in its early stages, but the trajectory is clear. With continued investment, world-class infrastructure, and a growing local interest in the sport, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a major player in the international golf scene. For golf fans and athletes alike, Saudi Arabia represents both an opportunity and a fascinating story of a nation embracing a sport once foreign to its culture.

Conclusion
From humble beginnings in private clubs to hosting tournaments featuring the world’s top golfers, Saudi Arabia’s golf history is a story of ambition, strategy, and transformation. As the Kingdom continues to integrate golf into its sports and tourism vision, the world will be watching its next chapters unfold—possibly witnessing the rise of new Saudi golfing stars and a permanent seat for the Kingdom in international golf.