Latest news with #FaldoSeries
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Saudi golf ambitions soar: Sir Nick Faldo to design championship course at Qiddiya City
Saudi Arabia's momentum in global golf continues to surge with the announcement of a new Sir Nick Faldo signature-designed golf course at Qiddiya City, a major future-forward destination just 40 minutes from Riyadh. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the project will include a world-class clubhouse, a golf academy, and expansive practice facilities, due by 2028. The 18-hole championship layout is set to stand out with its distinctive '3-hole return' routing system, making it more accessible and playable for golfers of all skill levels. Positioned against the towering 200-meter cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains, the setting alone promises to deliver one of the region's most visually striking golf experiences. In a move to support grassroots development, Qiddiya City has also announced it will become a global partner of the Faldo Series, the renowned international development pathway for young golfers, founded by Sir Nick nearly 30 years ago. Backing Future Golf Stars The partnership aims to enhance junior golf across the Kingdom and beyond, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's ambition to nurture homegrown talent and introduce more boys and girls to the sport. 'This is a unique opportunity to become involved in one of the most exciting cities being developed today,' said Sir Nick Faldo. 'Our partnership with Qiddiya City brings together the golf community with a whole nation bubbling with energy to be active and try new sports.' Sir Nick is no stranger to the region. His design portfolio includes the popular Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai and Katameya Dunes in Cairo, Egypt, both acclaimed for blending traditional golf strategy with contemporary aesthetics. At Qiddiya, his latest design will integrate innovative features, including floodlights for night play, multiple tee decks for varying skill levels, and a forward-thinking blend of entertainment and competition that appeals to new golfers as much as seasoned players. Qiddiya's Bold Sports Vision The course is part of a broader, ambitious sports and cultural blueprint for Qiddiya. Also on the horizon: the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will play host to events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup; a Speed Park Track for motorsports; and a landmark Performing Arts Center - all combining to make Qiddiya a multi-disciplinary global hub. Adding to the Kingdom's growing golf footprint, Golf Saudi has also announced a strategic partnership with Five Iron Golf, a global leader in high-tech, indoor golf experiences. The first Saudi location is set to open in early 2026, joining Five Iron's existing 30 venues across four countries, including the UAE. These ventures are tightly aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia's national transformation plan, which sees sports, including golf, as central to a diversified, innovation-driven future. The Kingdom has already cemented its international golf presence through partnerships and investments in tournaments with LIV Golf, the Ladies European Tour (LET), and other high-profile events and venues. With this latest wave of development—from elite courses to immersive entertainment spaces—Saudi Arabia is positioning itself not just as a player in global golf, but a leader. As construction moves forward and partnerships deepen, the world will be watching closely. The Qiddiya project and other upcoming ventures represent not just a vision for golf—but a statement of intent for the Kingdom's sporting future.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
On the edge of desert cliffs, Saudi Arabia is engineering Golf's most daring destination
TL;DR: Qiddiya City will debut an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo , set to open in 2026 as part of Saudi Vision 2030 . Aimed at nurturing youth golf and hosting Faldo Series events , Qiddiya is now a global partner of the Faldo Series. The golf complex will include an academy, driving range, clubhouse, wellness hub, and training facilities. Located along the scenic Tuwaiq Mountains , the course will offer night play, inclusivity for all skill levels, and on-site leisure amenities. As part of its mission to establish Qiddiya City as a global sports and entertainment hub under Saudi Vision 2030. Qiddiya City is one of the world's largest urban developments, spanning 360 square kilometers. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The city's master plan includes more than 20 districts dedicated to entertainment, sports, culture, residential spaces, and hospitality. In addition to the golf course, the city will feature a variety of sports and cultural attractions, including the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will host major events, such as the 2034 World Cup, and the Speed Park Track, designed for motorsports. Qiddiya Investment Company has announced the development of an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Sir Nick Faldo, scheduled to open in 2026. The facility will serve as a regional anchor for youth development and elite play, with complementary infrastructure built around a top-tier golf experience. A Vision Rooted in Sports & Sustainability Qiddiya's golf project aligns with its vision to combine play, wellness, and sport within a sustainable urban masterplan. The course, perched along 200-meter cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains, is engineered to accommodate beginners and professionals alike, emphasizing accessibility while maintaining championship standards. The course is designed to cater to players of all levels, offering a combination of traditional golf elements and innovative entertainment experiences. As global partner of the Faldo Series, Qiddiya aims to host youth competitions and training initiatives, positioning Saudi Arabia on the international golfing map. Key Features & Facilities Course Design & Lighting : A Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole layout, featuring a unique 'three-hole return' system and floodlighting to allow night play. : A Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole layout, featuring a unique 'three-hole return' system and floodlighting to allow night play. Training Academy & Clubhouse : Designed by Pattersons, the campus will include a driving range, pro shop, fitness suites, indoor/outdoor pools, and wellness and social hubs. : Designed by Pattersons, the campus will include a driving range, pro shop, fitness suites, indoor/outdoor pools, and wellness and social hubs. Public Experience Hub: A green-roofed central structure will link the golf club, academy, and social wellness zone, offering public spaces and event facilities. Strategic Impact & Timing With the course opening in 2026 and complementary facilities following by 2028, Qiddiya's golf hub supports broader goals: Talent Pipeline : Hosting Faldo Series events and training programs to develop young Saudi golfers. : Hosting Faldo Series events and training programs to develop young Saudi golfers. Tourism & Lifestyle : Enhancing visitor offerings at Qiddiya – which also includes theme parks like Six Flags and motorsports venues. : Enhancing visitor offerings at Qiddiya – which also includes theme parks like Six Flags and motorsports venues. Vision 2030 Alignment: Supporting economic diversification and local sports infrastructure development with a strategic, leisure-driven urban model. Why It Matters First of Its Kind : A signature Faldo course in Saudi Arabia is unique in the region and sets new standards for golf accessibility and design. : A signature Faldo course in Saudi Arabia is unique in the region and sets new standards for golf accessibility and design. Youth Development Focus : As a Faldo Series venue, Qiddiya provides a professional launchpad for Saudi and regional golf talent. : As a Faldo Series venue, Qiddiya provides a professional launchpad for Saudi and regional golf talent. Integrated Experience : Golf is integrated into a wider ecosystem of leisure, wellness, and entertainment, reinforcing Qiddiya as a multi-disciplinary destination. : Golf is integrated into a wider ecosystem of leisure, wellness, and entertainment, reinforcing Qiddiya as a multi-disciplinary destination. Long-term Positioning: Accelerates Saudi Arabia's ambition to diversify its economic base via sport tourism and global branding. With its 2026 opening, Qiddiya City's Faldo-designed golf course is poised to become the Kingdom's flagship golf destination, ushering in a new era of sports-focused tourism, youth development, and integrated leisure infrastructure. Located within the broader Qiddiya masterplan, the project transforms abstract ambition into a tangible destination for both athletes and lifestyle seekers, underlining Saudi Arabia's growing presence in global sports and entertainment.
Zawya
23-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi: Qiddiya City to become new global golfing hub
Qiddiya City, the world's first city built for play in Saudi Arabia, has announced two key developments that aim to make the city an international golfing hub. Qiddiya City said it has become a global partner of the Faldo Series, the world's leading pathway for young golfers, to help support grass roots golf in the kingdom and internationally, said a Saudi Press Agency (SPA) report. Qiddiya City will be a host venue for the kingdom's Faldo Series events, establishing Qiddiya City as the regional hub for youth golf. Qiddiya City also unveiled on Monday a new, Sir Nick Faldo signature designed 18-hole championship golf course set to open to the public in 2026 along with a state-of-the-art clubhouse, academy and practice facilities open from 2028. Placing a major emphasis on accessibility and innovation, the course features a number of unique design features, including a '3 hole return' layout system to allow greater access for all players. The announcement is also part of Qiddiya City's long-term ambition to become the premier destination in the kingdom for golf, attracting players of all ages and skills from young players to professionals and supporting the next generation of Saudi golf. Qiddiya Investment Company Managing Director Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood said: 'Qiddiya City's partnership with Sir Nick Faldo in designing a new golf course and becoming global partner of the Faldo Series underscores our commitment to growing the game of golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi golfers.' Sir Nick Faldo, commenting on the partnership, added: 'This is a unique opportunity to become involved in one of the most exciting cities being developed today where a new way of city life is fused together with sport, entertainment and culture. Our partnership with Qiddiya City brings together the golf community with a whole nation bubbling with energy to be active and try new sports.' The new flagship golf course is set within a dramatic landscape, nestled against the towering 200-metre cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains. Designed to maximise playability, the course features floodlighting for extended hours and is thoughtfully crafted to challenge professionals while remaining accessible to amateur players. It will also offer tailored learning pathways for newcomers and those looking to elevate their game, combining traditional golf elements with innovative golf entertainment experiences. The course will be complemented by an iconic clubhouse and state-of-the-art driving range and academy designed by Patterson's which sits perfectly in the desert environment. It has both sustainability and world-class golfing features embedded within the design. The clubhouse will offer a comprehensive range of facilities to support the golf course while also serving as a vibrant community social and wellness hub. It will feature leisure amenities such as fitness and conditioning, wellness facilities, social meeting places, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of food and beverage options. The venue is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors annually. A green-roofed structure, open to the public for viewing and events, will connect three main zones: the Golf Clubhouse, serving as the central hub for operations and player interaction; the Social Wellness Hub, offering a wide array of sports and leisure amenities; and the Academy, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to golf instruction and practice. Qiddiya City is one of the world's largest city developments at 360 sq km and located just 40 minutes from Riyadh. With over 20 districts planned, the new city will be well-connected and anchored around entertainment, sports and culture with world-class facilities and events alongside new homes, offices, retail and hospitality. The new golfing attractions add to an impressive list of entertainment, sports and cultural facilities at Qiddiya City such as the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium which will host major sports and cultural events including the 2034 World Cup; the Speed Park Track for motor sports; the Mercedes AMG World of Performance which is an immersive and interactive experience including a public race track and the Performing Arts Center.
Gulf Insider
22-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
New Golf Course to Boost Saudi Arabia's Sports
Saudi Arabia's upcoming entertainment and sports city, Qiddiya, has unveiled plans for an 18-hole golf course designed by English golfer Sir Nick Faldo. The course, set along the 200-meter-high cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains, is part of Qiddiya's broader push to develop golf infrastructure in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The announcement follows Qiddiya's new global partnership with the Faldo Series, regarded as the world's leading development pathway for young golfers. The partnership aims to grow the sport in Saudi Arabia and expand youth participation nationally and internationally, the SPA added. Faldo called the partnership a unique opportunity to help shape one of the world's most ambitious cities, where modern lifestyles blend with sports, entertainment, and culture in an innovative urban model. He said: 'The collaboration with Qiddiya City brings together one of the world's foremost sporting communities and a vibrant society passionate about discovering new sports experiences.' The project aligns with Qiddiya's long-term vision to become a premier golf destination in Saudi Arabia, welcoming players of all ages and supporting the next generation of Saudi golfers. Abdullah Al-Dawood, managing director of Qiddiya Investment Co., said: 'Our partnership with Sir Nick Faldo to design a new golf course, along with becoming the global partner of the Faldo Series, affirms our commitment to supporting golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi golfers.' The course will offer a variety of playing options and accommodate all skill levels. Alongside a layout designed to challenge professionals, it will feature evening lighting for night play and structured training programs for beginners. The design blends traditional elements with contemporary, inclusive features to broaden participation. The larger golf destination will include a clubhouse, extensive training grounds, and an advanced academy developed by Patterson Design. These facilities are tailored to the desert environment, emphasizing sustainability and alignment with global golf standards. Beyond the sport itself, the site is envisioned as a community hub, featuring fitness and wellness centers, social spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. At the heart of the site, a green-covered structure open to the public will host events and serve as a central gathering space. It will connect the golf club, the multi-use sports and social complex, and the training academy, creating a unified destination for recreation, learning, and community activity. This distinctive architectural centerpiece will link the three key areas: the golf club as the operational core, a sports and social activity center, and an academy focused on high-level golf instruction and training. Qiddiya City includes more than 20 master-planned districts focused on entertainment, sports, and culture, along with housing, commercial, and hospitality offerings. The golf project joins several other high-profile developments under the Qiddiya umbrella, including the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium — expected to host global sports and entertainment events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup — the Speed Park motorsports venue, Mercedes-AMG World with public racing experiences, and the Performing Arts Center, which will support diverse cultural and creative programming. Also read: Saudi Municipalities Crack Down on Unlicensed Housing Subdivisions
Arab News
21-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
New golf course to boost Saudi Arabia's sports, entertainment vision
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's upcoming entertainment and sports city, Qiddiya, has unveiled plans for an 18-hole golf course designed by English golfer Sir Nick Faldo. The course, set along the 200-meter-high cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains, is part of Qiddiya's broader push to develop golf infrastructure in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The announcement follows Qiddiya's new global partnership with the Faldo Series, regarded as the world's leading development pathway for young golfers. The partnership aims to grow the sport in Saudi Arabia and expand youth participation nationally and internationally, the SPA added. Faldo called the partnership a unique opportunity to help shape one of the world's most ambitious cities, where modern lifestyles blend with sports, entertainment, and culture in an innovative urban model. He said: 'The collaboration with Qiddiya City brings together one of the world's foremost sporting communities and a vibrant society passionate about discovering new sports experiences.' The project aligns with Qiddiya's long-term vision to become a premier golf destination in Saudi Arabia, welcoming players of all ages and supporting the next generation of Saudi golfers. Abdullah Al-Dawood, managing director of Qiddiya Investment Co., said: 'Our partnership with Sir Nick Faldo to design a new golf course, along with becoming the global partner of the Faldo Series, affirms our commitment to supporting golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi golfers.' The course will offer a variety of playing options and accommodate all skill levels. Alongside a layout designed to challenge professionals, it will feature evening lighting for night play and structured training programs for beginners. The design blends traditional elements with contemporary, inclusive features to broaden participation. The larger golf destination will include a clubhouse, extensive training grounds, and an advanced academy developed by Patterson Design. These facilities are tailored to the desert environment, emphasizing sustainability and alignment with global golf standards. Beyond the sport itself, the site is envisioned as a community hub, featuring fitness and wellness centers, social spaces, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. At the heart of the site, a green-covered structure open to the public will host events and serve as a central gathering space. It will connect the golf club, the multi-use sports and social complex, and the training academy, creating a unified destination for recreation, learning, and community activity. This distinctive architectural centerpiece will link the three key areas: the golf club as the operational core, a sports and social activity center, and an academy focused on high-level golf instruction and training. Qiddiya City includes more than 20 master-planned districts focused on entertainment, sports, and culture, along with housing, commercial, and hospitality offerings. The golf project joins several other high-profile developments under the Qiddiya umbrella, including the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium — expected to host global sports and entertainment events such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup — the Speed Park motorsports venue, Mercedes-AMG World with public racing experiences, and the Performing Arts Center, which will support diverse cultural and creative programming.
