RIYADH: Following its acquisition of Dirab Golf and Country Club, Golf Saudi has now reopened the course and clubhouse to the public following an extensive redevelopment program.

Situated in the heart of the Kingdom’s capital, the club earlier this year carried out a series of improvements across the entire site including facility enhancement, landscaping, agronomy, the implementation of associate training programs, guest management, and general course renovation.

Deputy chairman of the Saudi Golf Federation and chief executive officer of Golf Saudi, Majed Al-Sorour, said: “This is an exciting phase in the course and club’s history. Golf Saudi is delighted to formally reopen Dirab Golf and Country Club following a series of wall-to-wall improvements across the entire club.

“Our hope is to enhance and grow the game of golf in the Kingdom and encourage Saudis to pick up a club for the first time and give golf a go but also unlock employment opportunities within the wider golf industry.

“Golf is a game for everyone and as part of Vision 2030, this is just one of the steps Golf Saudi has undertaken to ensure that golf is accessible to all,” he added.

Dirab Golf and Country Club was the first grassed 18-hole Par 72 Championship course built in Saudi Arabia. Located 45 kilometers southwest of Riyadh and nestled in the picturesque Tawfiq valley, the club features tree-lined fairways and manicured greens.

The reopening celebrations coincided with the 91st Saudi National Day on Sept. 23, with the club organizing activities for golfers, children, and families. As part of Golf Saudi’s Mass Participation program, there were also opportunities for visitors of all ages to try golf through a series of fun events, including The Stadium Concept, and SNAG. Saudi heritage was also celebrated with a traditional food tent and Najdi folk dancing.

A series of events has been planned by the club to engage with local culture and the Saudi public, as part of its long-term aim to become a destination for local golf fans.

Al-Sorour said: “Through making these improvements, we hope that Dirab Golf and Country Club will become the capital’s go-to golf course.

“I have no doubt that it will become one of the best golf courses in Saudi Arabia and I am confident that our extensive investment into the club will entice members, visitors, golfers, and non-golfers to enjoy the new range of benefits and remarkable golfing facilities that are now on offer, thanks to the efforts of the Golf Saudi team who have overseen this redevelopment.”