Golf around Riyadh

Thought I would give a bit of feedback on the two 18 hole grass courses close to Riyadh.

The courses are Dirab which is south of the city and can take up to an hour to get there if you are living in the north where a lot a of the compounds are. The other is Riyadh Greens which is on the Qassim road about 20 - 25 minutes from the city.

Having now had a chance to play both courses my impressions are as follows:

Dirab

Clubhouse and restaurant are getting a bit tired and have not changed in the last 8 years when I was last a member. Neither has the menu and food is pretty basic and can be hit and miss.

The driving range, putting green and chipping area are fine and are fit for purpose.

The most important part is the course where they have changed the layout and is better balanced. Good tough course where you have to think your way around on a number of holes. Greens are generally in good condition and are pretty constant for pace. Probably prefered by the lower handicapper because of its length and challenge.

Also has a swimming pool, tennis courts and horse riding

Cost: SAR400 plus SAR60 for buggy

Riyadh Greens

The newer of the two courses and it shows in the amenities. Has a lovely large clubhouse, restaurant and area to sit outside. Also has a spa, gym and games room.

The driving range, putting green and chipping area are good as well although the driving range tends to always be quite busy.

The course is of medium length and is very enjoyable to play, even the par 6 that is just under 700 yds. Wayward shots are not punished the same way as at Dirab, which could be looked upon as a positive! One thing that needs looking at are the par 3's which are really far to short to be a challenge. The greens are strange in that the speed varies massively on each one and there are far to many undulations which makes putting a lottery.

Cost: SAR300 which includes the cost of a cart.

Final thought is that if you took the course from Dirab and the clubhouse from Riyadh Greens you would have a superb golf club.

Happy golfing