Qiddiya City, an ambitious mega-project just 40 minutes from Riyadh, is set to transform into a premier global golfing destination. At the core of this vision is a new 18-hole championship golf course designed by golfing legend Sir Nick Faldo, scheduled to open in 2026. This development, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aims to elevate the kingdom’s status in international sports and entertainment while fostering economic growth and youth development.
A City Built for Play
Qiddiya City is not just another urban development—it’s the world’s first city designed specifically for play, blending entertainment, sports, and culture. Spanning 360 square kilometers and nestled against the stunning Tuwaiq Mountains, Qiddiya is a flagship project of the Qiddiya Investment Company, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) initiative. The city is a key component of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, enhance quality of life, and position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for tourism and recreation.
World-Class Golfing Facilities
The centrepiece of Qiddiya’s golfing ambitions is the 18-hole championship golf course, crafted by Sir Nick Faldo, a six-time major champion. Set to open in 2026, the course is designed to cater to golfers of all skill levels. Its innovative “3 hole return” layout ensures accessibility for beginners while providing a challenging experience for professionals. The course will feature floodlighting for day-and-night play and is set against the dramatic 200-meter-high Tuwaiq cliffs, offering a visually spectacular golfing experience.
By 2028, the course will be complemented by a state-of-the-art clubhouse, a golf academy, and advanced practice facilities. The clubhouse, designed by architecture firm Patterson’s, will serve as a vibrant social and wellness hub. It will include indoor and outdoor pools, fitness and conditioning zones, wellness facilities, social spaces, and a diverse range of dining options. The entire development is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors annually, making it a significant draw for both local and international golf enthusiasts.
| Feature | Details |
| Golf Course | 18-hole championship course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, opens in 2026 |
| Location | Qiddiya City, 40 minutes from Riyadh, against Tuwaiq Mountains |
| Additional Facilities | Clubhouse, academy, practice facilities, opens in 2028 |
| Unique Design | “3 hole return” layout for accessibility, floodlit for day/night play |
| Visitor Projection | Over 200,000 visitors annually |
| Sustainability | Green-roofed structures, eco-friendly design |
Fostering Grassroots Golf
Qiddiya City is committed to nurturing the next generation of golfers through a global partnership with the Faldo Series, the world’s leading development pathway for young golfers. This collaboration will see Qiddiya hosting Faldo Series events, establishing it as the regional hub for youth golf in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aligns with the city’s broader goal of becoming a premier destination for golfers of all ages, from beginners to professionals, and supports the growth of golf at the grassroots level.
Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Dawood, CEO of Qiddiya Investment Company, emphasized the project’s significance: “Our partnership with the Faldo Series and the development of this world-class golf course underscore our commitment to making Qiddiya a global destination for sports and entertainment. We are creating opportunities for Saudis and international visitors to experience the best in golf and other recreational activities.”
Sir Nick Faldo also expressed enthusiasm: “I am thrilled to be part of this transformative project. Designing a course that challenges elite players while being accessible to all is a dream come true. Qiddiya has the potential to become one of the world’s top golf destinations.”
Sustainability and Innovation
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Qiddiya’s golfing project. The course and its facilities incorporate eco-friendly features, such as green-roofed structures and water-efficient technologies, ensuring minimal environmental impact. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development, making Qiddiya a model for responsible growth in the region.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The golfing hub is expected to significantly boost tourism in Saudi Arabia, with projections of over 200,000 annual visitors. Beyond golf, Qiddiya City will offer a wide range of attractions, including motorsports circuits, esports arenas, and cultural venues, creating a comprehensive destination for entertainment and sports enthusiasts. The project is also anticipated to create numerous job opportunities, particularly in the golf and hospitality industries, supporting the economic diversification goals of Vision 2030.
Additional Golfing Developments
In addition to the Faldo-designed course, Qiddiya City has plans for further golfing developments. In 2021, golfing legend Jack Nicklaus announced he would design a championship course for a private golf and country club within Qiddiya, with construction reportedly beginning in 2019 and an expected opening by 2025. While recent announcements have focused on the Faldo course, the Nicklaus-designed course could further enhance Qiddiya’s appeal as a multi-faceted golfing destination, catering to both elite players and casual visitors.
| Golf Course Comparison | Sir Nick Faldo Course | Jack Nicklaus Course |
| Designer | Sir Nick Faldo | Jack Nicklaus |
| Opening Year | 2026 | 2025 (projected) |
| Type | Public championship course | Private championship course |
| Key Features | “3 hole return” layout, floodlit, accessible | Exclusive residential community, high-end resort |
| Status | Under construction, confirmed in 2025 | Announced in 2021, construction status unclear |
A Vision for the Future
Qiddiya City’s golfing hub represents a bold step toward establishing Saudi Arabia as a global leader in sports and entertainment. With its innovative design, commitment to sustainability, and focus on youth development, the Faldo-designed course is poised to attract golfers from around the world while nurturing local talent. The potential addition of a Nicklaus-designed course further underscores Qiddiya’s ambition to offer diverse, world-class golfing experiences.
As construction progresses, anticipation is building for Qiddiya City to become a game-changer in the global golfing community. By blending cutting-edge facilities with the natural beauty of the Tuwaiq Mountains, Qiddiya is set to deliver an unparalleled golfing experience that will leave a lasting legacy.
