EPC Golf deals [Archive]

falconeasydriver

29th Oct 2012, 16:31

Well, the kids are requiring less and less input, the wife seems to have a full social calender, so it's time for me to get back into the swing of things and try to improve on my long past 6 handicap.
I've looked at the EPC deals, and it seems like a good place to start, does anyone have some good gen to share in terms of the best deals and how they work? I'm planning on 1 round a week (midweek roster permitting) thanks in advance.

Craggenmore

29th Oct 2012, 18:16

The EPC website lists 10 UAE courses.

If you're seeking just one course to play your 4 rounds per month and call 'home' then I'd go for Al Badia at 1000AED per month, especially if you used to play off 6. It's a classic Robert Trent Jones Jr design so everything slopes towards trouble and water features on 50% of holes. I think this course will challenge you the most. Golf Course - Al Badia Golf Club - INTERCONTINENTAL Dubai Festival City - www.albadiagolfclub.ae (http://www.albadiagolfclub.ae/golf-course/al-badia-golf-course-108.html)

The Montgomerie at 225 AED/round is also worth considering but if you can control your fades you won't find it a tough enough challenge. It's a lovely setting and a very relaxing place to spend the day. The staff here are superb. The Montgomerie Dubai - Home (http://www.themontgomerie.com/)

Arabian Ranches offers better value at 200AED/round. Some find it a bit rough around the edges but others find this its raison d'etre as a desert course. It will also test a 6 handicapper but Ian Baker-Finch was unimpressed and took his signature off the course but his locker is still there!
Arabian Ranches Golf Club - Home (http://www.arabianranchesgolfdubai.com/)

The best value is Sharjah but I've not played it and it's a nine holer. Golf And Shooting Club Sharjah | Home (http://www.golfandshootingshj.com/)

Just round the corner is something different; the Al Ghazal sand course. Untitled Document (http://www.alghazalgolf.ae/)

Jebel Ali is a pretty course but another 9 holer. Golf Dubai | Jebel Ali Golf Resort (http://www.jaresortshotels.com/Properties/JAGR/Golf/Overview.aspx)

If time and money are not limiting, then treat yourself to the drive and see the Abu Dhabi and Al Hamra courses.

Also consider heading off on a Cat A subload to Muscat to play the Wave. Almouj Golf (http://www.almoujgolf.com/)