How QF’s Education City Golf Club is supporting Qatar’s global tourism goals

Home to a national library, a public art gallery, an equestrian center, a hotel, and, most recently, a golf course – as well as eye-catching and thought-provoking architecture – Qatar Foundation’s Education City has become a true destination.

And an international audience will experience it for themselves when the Education City Golf Club (ECGC) – a member of Qatar Foundation – hosts the European Tour’s Commercial Bank Qatar Masters for the first time from March 5-8, welcoming golfers from all over the world.

“Hosting the Qatar Masters is an important milestone for us,” explains Mohammed Al Naimi, Deputy General Manager, ECGC. “It is a very prestigious event, and not only is it a chance to showcase the golf course to the world, but it is also an opportunity to share our knowledge with others and encourage players to try the course out themselves.”

“And ultimately, it will help attract more players – local and international – as well as more spectators.”

Only the second golf club in the country, the course was specially designed by Spanish golfing legend José María Olazábal, who has been involved in golf course design for more than 20 years.

Comprising 33 holes – across 18-hole, nine-hole, and six-hole courses – a Center of Excellence, a TrackMan driving range, and a putting green, the ECGC aims to cater to all visitors, regardless of age, gender, and ability level.

“The Education City Golf Club reflects Qatar Foundation’s goal of creating an open, diverse, inclusive, accessible, and welcoming environment for all members of the local and international community,” says Machaille Al Naimi, President, Community Development, Qatar Foundation.

“Our facilities, research and academic resources, and community activities within Education City are designed to be universally appealing. From football pitches, squash courts, and fitness sessions to creative spaces, community education classes, and cultural events and platforms, our aim is to make a lasting, positive impression on people. “Education City is an experience, and a destination that offers something for everyone to enjoy, learn, and be inspired by.” And the ripple effects of Education City’s role as a tourist destination can be seen at a nationwide level.

“Tourism is very heavily linked to Qatar National Vision 2030,” says Michael Braidwood, the club’s General Manager, speaking about how the golf course aims to help grow the nation’s tourism industry, identified as a key element in helping transform the nation into a sustainable and diversified economy.

“A huge number of hotels are being built in preparation for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, and, with this, Qatar needs more amenities. Visitors need something to do, and golf is a very popular sport amongst tourists.

“This part of the world is very popular, especially among northern Europeans for winter golf, plus it is a sport that is beginning to grow in countries like India and China. And with Qatar Airways’ fantastic network – they fly to over 200 international destinations – Qatar is very accessible.”