After 90 days of transformation, the iconic Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah has officially reopened — and golfers are already noticing the difference. The renowned DP World Tour venue, known for its scenic coastal setting and strong tournament history, has unveiled a refreshed look with redesigned greens, updated bunkering, and improved playability across five key holes.
new in the course
The renovation, led by the course’s original designer, Peter Harradine, in collaboration with Troon International, focused on giving the layout a more strategic and modern edge without losing its charm.
Three holes on the back nine — the 15th, 16th, and 17th — were completely reimagined, while the sixth and eighth on the front nine saw notable updates. These changes introduce new playing angles, varied tee positions, and refined green complexes that cater to both professionals and casual golfers.
The 15th hole now boasts a larger green that invites daring approach shots, while the par-4 16th has been stretched to tournament length, featuring a multi-tiered green designed for creative pin placements. The 17th, slightly lengthened with new bunkers along the left fairway, adds a strategic challenge for seasoned players.
On the front nine, the sixth hole now guides play through a reshaped fairway with smarter bunkering, and the eighth features a new tee box that opens a completely different line of play. The result? A course that feels familiar yet noticeably more engaging.
A fresh chapter for Ras Al Khaimah’s golfing scene
This renovation is more than just a design update — it represents Ras Al Khaimah’s growing reputation as a lifestyle and sports destination. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi have long been the country’s golfing powerhouses, Ras Al Khaimah is quietly carving its own space with Al Hamra Golf Club at its centre.
Nestled within the Al Hamra community — surrounded by hotels, waterfront homes, and leisure attractions — the course complements the emirate’s broader push toward tourism and premium recreation. For local golfers, it offers a relaxed alternative to the city’s busier venues, while international visitors get a world-class golfing experience paired with Ras Al Khaimah’s serene coastal vibe.
As one of the few floodlit 18-hole courses in the UAE, Al Hamra also caters to night golf — a popular feature for those who prefer cooler rounds under the stars, especially during the summer months.
The leadership had to say
Benoy Kurien, Group CEO of Al Hamra, said the reopening marks “an important milestone” in positioning Ras Al Khaimah as one of the UAE’s leading lifestyle and leisure destinations. He emphasized that the redesign was carried out to preserve the course’s signature charm while meeting modern expectations.
Paul Booth, General Manager of Al Hamra Golf Club, added that the project reflects the team’s commitment to continuous improvement: “We wanted to respect the course’s heritage but make it more dynamic and enjoyable for every type of golfer — whether they’re teeing off for the first time or competing at a professional level.”
It matters for golfers and residents
For UAE residents, especially those in the Northern Emirates, this reopening adds another premium option to the country’s already rich golfing landscape. Golfers can expect smoother greens, redefined hazards, and a better overall playing flow.
For Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality and tourism sectors, the benefits go even deeper. A revitalized championship course can attract new international events, raise the emirate’s profile among visiting golfers, and support local hotels and restaurants in the area.
The project also enhances the residential appeal of the Al Hamra community, which continues to draw families and expats looking for a quieter yet well-connected lifestyle. With a world-class golf course at their doorstep, residents gain access to a vibrant social hub and recreational outlet that complements the emirate’s growing reputation for quality living.
Practical details
Al Hamra Golf Club reopened all 18 holes in November 2025. During the renovation, parts of the course remained playable using six-hole loops to ensure regulars could still enjoy the game. The full reopening now restores the original 18-hole flow, complete with upgraded fairways and greens.
The club continues to host professional events and community tournaments, along with coaching programmes for juniors and beginners. Tee times can be booked directly through the clubhouse, and both members and visitors are welcome.
A stronger presence in the UAE golf
With these updates, Al Hamra Golf Club stands ready for its next era — one that blends world-class design with the warmth and accessibility that UAE golfers appreciate. Whether it’s weekend rounds for Ras Al Khaimah locals or high-profile tournaments under the desert sun, the course’s renewed look sets a higher standard for golfing in the region.
As the emirate continues to evolve, Al Hamra’s rejuvenated fairways are a reminder that the UAE’s passion for golf extends far beyond Dubai’s skyline — and into the tranquil landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, where sport, lifestyle, and leisure meet.
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