Qiddiya City Partners with Faldo Series, Unveils Sir Nick Faldo-Designed Golf Course to Open in 2026

Courtesy of SPA

Riyadh, July 21 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s flagship entertainment and sports development project, announced a global partnership with the Faldo Series, the world’s leading youth golf development pathway, as part of its long-term plans to support grassroots golf and elevate the Kingdom’s presence in international sports.

Under the new partnership, Qiddiya City will serve as a host venue for Faldo Series events in Saudi Arabia, establishing the city as a regional hub for youth golf. The initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s broader objectives to increase participation in sports and cultivate future talent.

As part of the announcement, Qiddiya City also revealed plans for a Sir Nick Faldo signature-designed, 18-hole championship golf course, scheduled to open in 2026. The facility will include a state-of-the-art clubhouse, academy, and practice complex expected to be operational by 2028.

Courtesy of SPA

“This partnership with Sir Nick Faldo and the Faldo Series highlights our commitment to growing the game of golf and nurturing the next generation of Saudi talent,” said Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company.

The golf course will be located within the dramatic natural landscape of Qiddiya City, nestled against the 200-meter cliffs of the Tuwaiq Mountains. It is designed to balance professional-level challenge with accessibility for amateur players, and will feature floodlighting for extended play, as well as a ‘3-hole return’ layout to promote inclusivity and flexible access for all ages and skill levels.

Sir Nick Faldo described the collaboration as an opportunity to support the development of golf in one of the world’s most ambitious new cities.

“Our partnership with Qiddiya City brings together the golf community with a whole nation bubbling with energy to be active and try new sports,” Faldo said.

The clubhouse, designed by architecture firm Patterson’s, will offer a mix of golfing, wellness, and leisure facilities. It will serve as both an operational base for the course and a vibrant community hub with fitness amenities, indoor and outdoor pools, social spaces, and a variety of dining options. The venue is expected to attract more than 200,000 visitors annually.

A green-roofed public structure will link three core facilities: the Golf Clubhouse, the Social Wellness Hub, and the Academy. The academy will offer tailored instruction pathways for new and aspiring golfers and integrate advanced training with golf entertainment experiences.

Courtesy of SPA

The new development is part of Qiddiya City’s broader vision to become a global destination for sport, entertainment, and culture. Spanning over 360 square kilometers and located just 40 minutes from Riyadh, Qiddiya City will comprise more than 20 districts, featuring homes, retail, offices, and hospitality in addition to major sporting venues.

Other landmark projects in the city include the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium, which will host major events including the 2034 FIFA World Cup; the Speed Park Track for motorsports; Mercedes AMG World of Performance, a public racing venue and interactive automotive experience; and a Performing Arts Center.

Qiddiya City is a core project under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify the national economy and position the Kingdom as a global leader in sports, entertainment, and tourism.