Qiddiya golf club: 3 loops, 2026 fees & booking guide

The Qiddiya golf club, officially the National Golf Club, opened on 30 October 2026. It is open to the public with no membership required, and Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) has signed a five-year management deal with Golf Saudi to operate the course. The site is roughly 45 minutes north of Riyadh, and tee times are booked through the Qiddiya app. Green fees and daily hours should be confirmed on the official Qiddiya and Golf Saudi portals, as published rates can change.

When did the Qiddiya golf course open?

The National Golf Club opened its doors on 30 October 2026. That is just days before this guide was written on 5 November 2026, so the course is effectively brand new. It is part of the wider Qiddiya entertainment hub, a massive Public Investment Fund (PIF) project under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

The timing is strategic. The opening lands at the peak of the Saudi golf season, running alongside major events like the Saudi International and the Faldo Series. This means high demand is likely right out of the box. In the first week, tee times may be limited and the booking system is still settling in. If you are planning a visit, book as early as possible.

How much is a round of golf at Qiddiya?

There is no membership fee. The club runs on a public-access model, so you pay a green fee for each round. Exact peak and off-peak green fees for the Qiddiya golf course should be confirmed on the Qiddiya app or the National Golf Club website, as these figures are not fixed in this guide and can fluctuate based on demand and season.

Budget realistically for the full day. You are paying for the green fee, the 45-minute return drive from Riyadh, food at the clubhouse, and potentially the driving range. The academy and range may carry separate charges, so check the app for itemized pricing before you pay.

Compared to typical private-club rates in central Riyadh, a public-access model like this offers a lower barrier to entry. However, because it is a new, high-profile destination, prices may reflect the premium nature of the Qiddiya brand. Always verify the current rate in the app on the day of booking.

Qiddiya golf club vs. Riyadh private clubs: cost & access comparison

Understanding how the National Golf Club stacks up against established Riyadh venues helps set expectations for your budget and experience. The table below summarizes the key differences based on the public-access model versus traditional private clubs.

This comparison highlights why the Qiddiya golf club is a important for tourists and non-members. You get world-class course architecture and national-level management without the financial commitment of a private club membership. However, the trade-off is the travel time from the city center, which is a significant factor for day-trippers.

Is the Qiddiya golf course open to the public?

Yes. Public access is the core business model of the National Golf Club. This is a significant shift from the traditional members-only clubs found in Riyadh. You do not need to be a Saudi national or a resident to book a tee time. Residents, expats, and tourists can all play.

The five-year management agreement with Golf Saudi means the day-to-day operation will follow national standards. Golf Saudi is the body that oversees professional golf in the Kingdom, so their involvement ensures the course meets international quality benchmarks. This is good for players who want a consistent, high-standard experience without a membership.

For check-in, you will likely need a valid ID or passport, especially for tourists on a visit visa. Spectator and clubhouse access may differ from playing access. While you don't need a membership to play, some premium hospitality packages or specific event days might have different entry rules. Check the terms of service in the Qiddiya app for your specific booking.

Where is the Qiddiya golf course located and how to get there from Riyadh?

Qiddiya City is located roughly 40 to 45 minutes north of central Riyadh. The drive is straightforward, mostly on the King Abdullah Road (Highway 65) or the Makkah Highway depending on your starting point. Traffic is generally light compared to the city center, but expect heavier congestion on weekends and around tournament days.

If you are driving from the Olaya district, expect around 45 minutes. From the southern parts of Riyadh, it could take up to an hour. The site is a large integrated destination, so allow extra time to find the specific golf entrance. Follow signs for "Qiddiya" and then "National Golf Club".

For those without a car, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem operate in Riyadh and can take you to Qiddiya. However, fares will be higher due to the distance. Parking at the venue is available, but specific rates for the golf club should be confirmed on the day. If you are staying in Riyadh, consider renting a car for the day to give you flexibility to explore other parts of the Qiddiya hub.

Who is managing the Qiddiya golf club?

Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) owns the facility. However, the day-to-day management is handled by Golf Saudi under a five-year deal. This is not a private operator; it is the national governing body for golf in Saudi Arabia. Golf Saudi is responsible for developing the sport, hosting international events, and setting standards for courses across the Kingdom.

The wider Qiddiya project is backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has assets estimated at US$900 billion. This financial backing ensures the facility is built to world-class standards. For players, this means high-quality maintenance, professional staff, and a commitment to hosting international events. It also means the club is likely to be a key venue for future tournaments on the Saudi Golf calendar.

What is the design of the Qiddiya golf course?

The course was designed by Sir Nick Faldo, a major selling point for golf tourism. Faldo is one of the most respected course architects in the world, and his involvement guarantees a high-caliber playing experience. The layout is unusual: instead of a traditional 18-hole course, it features three distinct six-hole loops.

This design has several advantages. First, it suits short visits. If you only have three hours, you can play one loop. If you have six hours, you can play all three. Second, it allows players to mix loops, creating a unique 18-hole experience each time. Third, it is ideal for spectators, who can watch multiple holes from different vantage points without walking the entire course.

The facility includes a dedicated academy, a driving range, and a clubhouse designed for both players and spectators. The academy is expected to host junior and professional training programs, making it a hub for golf development in the region. The driving range is open to non-players, so you can warm up before your round or just practice your swing.

How to book a tee time at the Qiddiya golf course

Bookings run exclusively through the Qiddiya app. Walk-in availability in the first week is likely limited, so do not rely on showing up. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Download the Qiddiya app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Create an account using your email and phone number. Verify your ID if prompted.
3. Navigate to the "Golf" or "National Golf Club" section.
4. Select your preferred date and time. Choose which six-hole loop you want to play.
5. Review the green fee and any additional charges (e.g., cart rental, range access).
6. Pay securely within the app. You will receive a confirmation code.

On the day, bring your ID or passport, your golf gear, and your booking confirmation. If the app is slow or fully booked, try booking for the next available slot. It is also worth checking the Qiddiya website for any announcements about additional tee times or special events.

Are there jobs at the Qiddiya golf course?

A new public club and academy will need staff. Roles likely include caddies, range staff, academy coaches, clubhouse hosts, and hospitality workers. Qiddiya City as a whole is a large employer under Vision 2030, so roles extend far beyond the golf course to include retail, F&B, and operations.

Direct readers to official Qiddiya and Golf Saudi career listings rather than third-party job boards. Hiring and salary details should be confirmed on the official sites, as they change frequently. For expats, securing a residency visa (Iqama) and a work permit through an employer is essential. The Qiddiya project is known for hiring both local Saudi talent and international experts, so there are opportunities for qualified golf professionals and hospitality staff.

Key takeaways

• Opening: The National Golf Club at Qiddiya opened on 30 October 2026.
• Access: Public access model; no membership required. Book via the Qiddiya app.
• Management: Operated by Golf Saudi under a five-year deal with QIC.
• Location: ~45 minutes north of Riyadh. Allow extra time for parking and entry.
• Fees: Green fees vary; confirm on the app. Budget for the full day including travel and food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a Saudi ID to play at Qiddiya?
A: No. Tourists with a valid passport and visit visa can play. Check the app for specific ID requirements at check-in.

Q: Can I book a tee time the same day?
A: In the first week, same-day bookings are unlikely due to high demand. Book in advance via the Qiddiya app.

Q: Is there a dress code at the Qiddiya golf club?
A: Yes. Standard golf attire is required. Collared shirts and golf shoes are typically expected. Check the app for specific dress code rules.

Q: Are there accommodations near Qiddiya?
A: Yes. Qiddiya City is an integrated destination with hotels and resorts. Staying on-site can save travel time.

Q: Who is the course designer?
A: Sir Nick Faldo. The course features three six-hole loops, a unique layout for a public club.

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