Tee time in Dubai becomes dearer

Dubai: One of the world's most relaxing sports could soon become more taxing after a directive raising fees by 10 per cent was issued to all Dubai golf clubs.

The order was issued earlier this month by the Dubai Municipality. Gulf News contacted the municipality, but no official was available for comment.

The new fees, which have already been implemented by the Arabian Ranches Golf Club and The Montgomerie, Dubai, as of yesterday, are on all club revenues without exception. This means all green fees, range balls, golf carts and golf lessons as well as memberships and related categories will be included. It is also understood that the fee may have to be settled in retrospect and backdated until April 1, 2007.

Golfers across the city believe that they will consider playing golf less frequently and that the directive may have an effect on the growth of the game. The impact on both international and local golf rounds will also be monitored in the coming weeks as clubs reach a decision on how the fee will be charged.

Expensive

The 10 per cent fees on top of the green fees and extras now make Dubai one of the most expensive places in the world to play a round of golf.

From mid-September golfers can expect to pay Dh695, plus 10 per cent, for a game at The Montgomerie, Dubai. If the Four Seasons Golf Club implements the charge a round of golf will cost, at peak time, up to Dh725 plus the fee. A game at the Emirates Golf Club Majlis could cost Dh750, at peak time, plus the fee from the start of their new rate season.

Many golfers in Dubai appear to be concerned. Speaking to Gulf News, Rai Legnar a longstanding supporter of golf in the region said: "We could be out-pricing ourselves and if Dubai is not careful it will end up like Spain - which lost out to many tourists after raising prices.

"Also part of being a member of a club is about supporting that establishment in more ways than just a round of golf. It's about socialising with friends and families. But as prices rise at the clubs more and more people may be forced to consider alternatives. I will play golf just as much as before but I'm sure there are people who may not. I believe the tourist market may be the hardest hit because it's getting expensive."

Local golfer Lincoln Behm, who has been playing in Dubai once or twice a week for the past year, said: "These fees will mean I will now only play once a week. For a beginner it is unreasonable. I am disappointed."

Mark Gathercole, 40, a member at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club, said: "With prices going up less people may come to play which will affect revenue."

While the Arabian Ranches Golf Club and The Montgomerie, Dubai have already introduced the fees other clubs have confirmed that they are aware of the directive and are currently looking at options.

FEES

The Majlis (Emirates Golf Club)
Summer - Dh390
Winter - Dh750

The Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
Summer - Dh330
Winter (weekends) - Dh690
(weekdays) - Dh650

The Montgomerie
Summer - Dh395*
Winter - Dh695*

The Arabian Ranches
Summer - Dh220*
October to December - Dh245*
January to May - Dh545*
* Plus 10% municipality tax

Have your say:
Do you think this will impact resident golfers? Should sport be made exempt from levies? Tell us at letter2editor@gulfnews.com or fill in the comments form below.

Dubai was already one of the most expensive places in the world to play golf, this will certainly make me think twice about playing now. It costs the same to play genuine world class championship courses like the Belfry and Gleneagles and in terms of green fees, other sunshine destinations are now cheaper.
Denny
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 07, 2007, 10:44

The new prices are still far less than in some other countries with similar or less facilities.
Karkain
Dubai,UAE
Posted: September 07, 2007, 09:12

How does the agency propose to "back-date" or retroactively adjust fees already paid? Especially in respect to overseas visitors?
BJ
Cincinnati,USA
Posted: September 07, 2007, 03:31