The 10 Best Golf Courses in Asia and the Middle East to Play in 2027

1. Hirono Golf Club

Hirono Golf Club ranks first as the definitive golden-age masterpiece in Asia, a 1932 Charles Alison design near Kobe that consistently places among the world's top 50 courses. Its deep, steep-faced "Alison bunkers" demand precise diagonal carries and define Japanese strategic architecture. A meticulous restoration sharpened bunker shapes and reclaimed original playing widths, cementing its elite status. Visitor green fees run approximately ¥35,000 (about $235) for 2027.

This private, member-hosted club is for the serious architecture connoisseur willing to arrange access through an introduction or a specialist Japan golf-tour operator well in advance. It trades away easy public access and resort amenities for an unspoiled, pure classic experience. Compared to the more accessible Kawana Fuji Course ranked below, Hirono offers deeper design pedigree and world-elite recognition, though Kawana provides far simpler booking and coastal scenery.

2. Emirates Golf Club Majlis

Emirates Golf Club's Majlis Course ranks second as the Middle East's most famous and historically significant venue, being the first grass course in the region and long-time host of the DP World Tour's Dubai Desert Classic. Its iconic skyline setting, framed by desert dunes and immaculate fairways, features signature holes in the par-3 7th and dramatic par-4 8th. Floodlit for night golf, it delivers a flagship Gulf experience.

This resort course is for the luxury traveler seeking a prestigious, easily bookable round in a vibrant city, trading away the quiet seclusion of private clubs for world-class hospitality and central location near Dubai Marina. It also offers the fully floodlit Faldo Course as a second option. Compared to Hirono above, Emirates provides far greater accessibility and modern amenities but lacks the golden-age architectural purity and global top-50 ranking of the Japanese classic.

3. Kawana Fuji Course

Kawana's Fuji Course ranks third for its breathtaking clifftop setting overlooking Sagami Bay on Japan's Izu Peninsula, often dubbed the "Pebble Beach of Japan." This Charles Alison design offers dramatic ocean views, with Mount Fuji visible on clear days, blending coastal scenery with classic strategic bunkering. As part of a historic resort, it is far more accessible to visitors than private clubs like Hirono. Visitor green fees run about ¥30,000 (approximately $200) for 2027.

This resort course is for golfers prioritizing spectacular scenery and a relaxed, bookable experience over strict exclusivity, trading away the hushed formality of member-hosted clubs for hotel convenience and ocean vistas. It compares directly to Hirono above by sharing Alison's design DNA but offering a more forgiving, tourist-friendly atmosphere. Below it, Emirates Golf Club surpasses Kawana in tour pedigree and modern luxury, yet Kawana's natural coastal beauty remains unmatched in this ranking.

4. Jumeirah Earth Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates' Earth Course ranks fourth as a premier modern championship venue, hosting the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, the climax of Europe's tour calendar. This Greg Norman design is a long, water-laced parkland test featuring tree-lined fairways, large lakes, and a dramatic par-5 18th finishing hole. Immaculately maintained in the desert climate, it anchors a luxury residential community in Dubai. Visitor green fees run about AED 1,000 (approximately $270) for 2027.

This course is for the competitive golfer seeking a stern, modern test with proven tour pedigree, trading away the historic charm of classic designs for a demanding, water-guarded layout. Compared to Emirates Golf Club above, the Earth Course offers a more challenging and contemporary experience, though it lacks the iconic status and central Marina location of its rival.

5. Black Mountain Golf Club

Black Mountain Golf Club ranks fifth as the Best Value pick, delivering genuine Asian Tour championship golf in Hua Hin for roughly THB 4,000 (about $115) in 2027. Carved from an old pineapple plantation against a mountain backdrop, it features rolling fairways, water hazards, and excellent conditioning, routinely ranked the #1 course in Thailand. It has hosted multiple Asian Tour events, including the Thailand Open. The on-site academy, accommodation, and second course make it a complete destination.

This resort is for the value-conscious golfer seeking championship quality without the premium price tag, trading away the luxury clubhouse extravagance of Dubai venues for a relaxed tropical atmosphere and warm hospitality. It compares directly to Jumeirah Earth Course above by offering similar tour pedigree at less than half the cost, though it lacks the modern, high-end residential setting.

6. Sentosa Serapong Course

Sentosa Golf Club's Serapong Course ranks sixth for its stunning waterfront setting on Sentosa Island, with views of the Singapore skyline and harbor framing a lush, immaculately conditioned tropical parkland test. It hosts the Singapore Open and the HSBC Women's World Championship, cementing its tour pedigree. Water comes into play on many holes, demanding precision and strategy. Visitor green fees run about SGD 600 (approximately $445) for 2027, reflecting its premium status.

This course is for the affluent traveler seeking a world-class, easily accessible round in a city-state, trading away the natural seclusion of coastal or mountain courses for a polished, harbor-front experience. Compared to Black Mountain above, Sentosa offers superior conditioning and a more dramatic skyline backdrop but at nearly four times the cost.

7. Yas Links Abu Dhabi

Yas Links ranks seventh as the #1 course in the UAE, a Kyle Phillips design that brings genuine links character to the Arabian Gulf coast in Abu Dhabi. Built along the water with seawater channels, dunes, and firm, fast turf, it offers a rare true links experience in the Middle East. It has hosted the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, adding to its tournament pedigree. Visitor green fees run about AED 900 (approximately $245) for 2027.

This course is for the links purist seeking firm-and-fast conditions and coastal wind strategy in a desert setting, trading away the lush parkland of Dubai venues for a more authentic, exposed layout. Compared to Sentosa Serapong above, Yas Links offers a lower price and a more distinctive architectural style, though it lacks the skyline drama and central Singapore location.

8. Mission Hills Olazabal

Mission Hills' Olazabal Course ranks eighth as part of the world's largest golf complex in Shenzhen, a demanding, well-conditioned test among rolling hills designed with input from José María Olazábal. It has hosted the World Cup of Golf and other international events, showcasing its tournament pedigree. The complex features 12 courses across two sites, offering a who's who of golf architecture. Visitor green fees run about CNY 1,500 (approximately $210) for 2027.

This course is for the golfer seeking variety and scale, trading away the intimacy of a single standout design for access to a sprawling golf resort with numerous options. Compared to Yas Links above, Mission Hills offers more courses and a lower price point, but it lacks the focused links authenticity and coastal drama of the Abu Dhabi venue.

9. Naruo Golf Club

Naruo Golf Club ranks ninth as a Crane/Alison-influenced classic near Osaka, routinely ranked among Japan's top five courses for its dramatic hillside terrain with ravines and elevation changes. The strategic golden-age design demands precise placement off the tee, blending classic architecture with stunning natural topography. Its seclusion and quality make it a connoisseur's favorite among Japan's traditional courses. Visitor access is limited to member-hosted play, with effective green fees about ¥30,000 (approximately $200) for 2027.

This private club is for the purist seeking an exclusive, challenging classic experience, trading away the accessibility of resort courses for a more demanding and secluded round. Compared to Mission Hills above, Naruo offers far greater design pedigree and exclusivity, though it requires advance arrangement through a tour operator or introduction.

10. Thai Country Club

Thai Country Club ranks tenth as a prestigious championship parkland course near Bangkok, hosting Tiger Woods's first professional win in Asia at the 1997 Asian Honda Classic and multiple Johnnie Walker Classics. It features immaculately conditioned broad fairways, water hazards, and mature trees, long serving as Thailand's premier tournament venue near the capital. The course offers a polished, prestigious tropical test with convenient access. Visitor green fees run about THB 5,500 (approximately $160) for 2027.

This course is for the golfer seeking a refined, historically significant round with easy access from Bangkok, trading away the dramatic scenery of coastal or mountain courses for a well-manicured, tree-lined parkland experience. Compared to Naruo above, Thai Country Club offers far simpler booking and a richer tournament history, though it lacks the golden-age architectural purity of the Japanese classic.

How we ranked these

Rankings were determined by weighting design pedigree (architect reputation and golden-age provenance), conditioning standards, championship history (DP World Tour, Asian Tour, World Cup), and overall visitor experience. Green fees were normalized to approximate 2027 costs, with accessibility and value-for-money factored into category awards like Best Overall and Best Value. Data came from official club sources, tour records, and regional golf media.

Deliberately ignored were subjective aesthetic preferences, non-golf amenities such as spas or nightlife, and any courses not currently operating or accepting visitors. We excluded unverified user reviews and promotional claims from resorts, focusing only on verifiable architectural and tournament facts. This avoids hype and ensures the list reflects measurable quality rather than marketing influence.

Related questions

What are the best private members' clubs in Asia for 2027?

Top private clubs include Hirono and Naruo in Japan, both member-hosted with classic Alison designs. Sentosa in Singapore and Thai Country Club also offer exclusive experiences. Access typically requires an introduction or tour operator. Fees range from $200 to $500, and early booking is essential.

Which golf courses in the Pacific Northwest are top-ranked for 2027?

Chambers Bay, Bandon Dunes, and Sahalee are consistently top-ranked. These courses feature links-style layouts, dramatic coastal views, and challenging conditions. Green fees vary from $150 to $400, and reservations often open months in advance due to high demand.

What are the best desert golf courses in the American Southwest for 2027?

Shadow Creek, TPC Scottsdale, and Wolf Creek are premier desert courses. They offer dramatic elevation changes, target-style holes, and impeccable conditioning. Fees range from $200 to $500, with peak season in winter and early spring.

Which golf courses in Spain and Portugal are must-plays in 2027?

Valderrama, Finca Cortesin, and San Lorenzo are top picks. These courses feature classic parkland and links designs, hosting European Tour events. Green fees range from $150 to $400, with the best weather from March to October.

What are the best golf courses in South Africa for 2027?

Leopard Creek, Fancourt Links, and Gary Player Country Club lead the list. They offer wildlife views, dramatic landscapes, and championship pedigree. Fees range from $100 to $300, with peak season from November to March.

Which Canadian golf courses are top-ranked for 2027?

Cabot Cliffs, Fairmont Banff Springs, and St. George's are top choices. These courses feature coastal cliffs, mountain scenery, and classic designs. Green fees range from $150 to $400, with the season running from May to October.

FAQ

What is the typical green fee range for top courses in Asia and the Middle East?

Green fees vary widely, from around $115 at value options like Black Mountain in Thailand to $700 at ultra-premium clubs like The Els Club or Emirates Golf Club. Many Japanese courses like Hirono fall in the $200–$350 range.

Are these courses open to international visitors in 2027?

Yes, all listed courses welcome international golfers, though some require advance booking through a tour operator or club concierge. Private clubs like Hirono may have limited tee times for non-members, so early reservations are recommended.

What is the best time of year to play golf in Asia and the Middle East?

For Japan and Korea, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild weather. In the Middle East, November to March is ideal to avoid extreme heat. Thailand and Vietnam are playable year-round, but the dry season (November–April) is most comfortable.

How do I book a tee time at these courses?

Most courses can be booked directly through their websites or via golf travel agencies specializing in Asia and the Middle East. For exclusive clubs like Hirono, using a local golf concierge service is often the most reliable method.

Are caddies mandatory at these courses?

Caddies are typically mandatory at courses in Japan, Korea, and Thailand, adding $30–$60 to the round cost. In the Middle East and Vietnam, caddies are often optional but recommended for course knowledge and pace of play.

What is the dress code at these top courses?

Collared shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, and soft-spike golf shoes are standard. Denim, t-shirts, and sandals are generally prohibited. Some Middle Eastern clubs may request modest attire in clubhouse areas, but on-course rules are similar to Western standards.

Which course offers the best value for money in 2027?

Black Mountain Golf Club in Thailand at roughly $115 is the Best Value pick. It hosts Asian Tour events and offers championship conditioning at a fraction of the cost of other marquee courses, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious golfers.

Can I play night golf at any of these courses?

Yes, Emirates Golf Club's Faldo Course and the Majlis Course are floodlit for night play, as is Jumeirah Golf Estates. This is ideal in Dubai's hot climate, allowing comfortable rounds after sunset during the cooler months.

Sources

• https://www.golfdigest.com/
• https://www.top100golfcourses.com/
• https://www.dpworldtour.com/
• https://www.asiantour.com/
• https://www.emiratesgolfclub.com/
• https://www.sentosagolfclub.com/
• https://www.golfasian.com/
• https://www.linksmagazine.com/

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