Arabian Ranches Golf Course

More importantly, it's really fun to play. The fairways are largely generous, although anything less than straight can leave you with an awkward approach; veer further off course and you'll have to contend with the shrubs and bushes that dot the extensive wasteland. There's plenty of bunkers too, although unusually they are all deemed as waste areas meaning you don't get penalised for grounding your club. This is a welcome rule, since you're unlikely to get through all 18 holes without having to play out of a sand trap, and on occasion there's even a risk of an over-hit putt finding a bunker. 

There are some great holes. The 9th is a long par-4 that plays to a heavily-contoured green with stunning views of the clubhouse in the background, while the enjoyable par-5 13th twists and turns through the desert as you make your way towards a gorgeous, amphitheatre-like green. Hardest of all is the par-4 5th, which looks innocuous enough from the tee but usually plays into the wind. You'll want to be long off the tee, but the further you go, the narrower the fairway, and with trees to the right and sandy wasteland to the left, there's little margin for error. The green is large but narrow, with steep drop-offs either side, and even if you can find the putting surface in regulation you're by no means guaranteed par thanks to the deceptive, subtle breaks.

The facilities at Arabian Ranches are superb, with a world-class practice facility available for golfers who wish to warm up before they play, and a golf academy on site for those last minute check ups. The beautifully-designed Spanish colonial clubhouse offers everything you could need with dining and catering facilities that are second to none, with a large terrace overlooking both the 9th and 18th greens the perfect place to enjoy a post-round beer or two. The Ranches restaurant offers a wide range of local and international cuisine, while the Nezesaussi Grill is a sports bar offering tasty snacks and cold beers.

For those looking to stay overnight at Arabian Ranches Golf Course, there are 11 en-suite rooms for hire within the clubhouse itself, each offering panoramic views of the course and service of the highest levels. A great option for those wishing to wake up early for a second round of golf before continuing their Dubai golf holiday.

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