Scotland, the home of golf and of many of the world’s finest courses, was voted World’s Best Golf Destination (Photo: Visit Scotland)
Golf is becoming an important segment for attracting tourists from all over the world, with countries from Thailand to Turkiye pitching their golfing destinations to global tourists and there are numerous awards created to identify the best golfing destinations and experiences.
World Golf Awards, one of the leading authorities that recognises and rewards excellence in golf tourism, has revealed this year’s best golf organisations at its 9th annual Gala Ceremony held earlier this week in Abu Dhabi.
Scotland, the home of golf and of many of the world’s finest courses, was voted World’s Best Golf Destination, whilst the historic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, host of the 2026 US Open Championships, was recognised as World’s Best Golf Course. Scotland’s Paul Lawrie received the Lifetime Achievement Award in acknowledgement of his outstanding contribution to golf.
According to a press statement, this year’s edition of World Golf Awards proved a global gathering of the golf industry, with pioneers, influencers and leading figureheads travelling from across the world attending. The prize-giving ceremony at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island marked the climax of a golf itinerary which included the World Golf Awards Classic played at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, one of the world’s most captivating golfing projects.
“Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club have proven world-class hosts of what has been a magnificent gathering of the global golf tourism industry. We have had the privilege of recognising the leading golf courses, hotels, resorts, designers and tour operators from across the world and my congratulations to each of them,” said Chris Frost, Managing Director, World Golf Awards.
The results follow a year-long search for the world’s favourite golf tourism and hospitality brands. Votes were cast by golf industry professionals, the media and the public, with the nominee gaining the most votes in a category named as the winner.
Park Hyatt Dubai, with its idyllic setting on the banks of Dubai Creek, took World’s Best Golf Hotel, whilst Vietnam Golf Association, with its resurgent domestic and international golf market, collected the trophy for World’s Best Golf Association. Golf tour operator, Golf Plaisir also capitalised on the reopening of international borders with the title for World’s Best Golf Tour Operator, whilst FootJoy claimed World’s Best Golf Shoe Brand, says the statement.
