Developments
GEO Certified Development 12/2025
From the outset, the team approached this project with a clear vision: to create a golf course that embodied the highest standards of sustainability. After multiple site visits, it’s evident that this commitment has been fully realised—yet the ambition doesn’t stop here. There remains a strong drive to keep improving, innovating, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable golf development.
Alexandra Almeida - Independent Verifier for Wadi Safar
Royal Golf Club, Wadi Safar sits along the crest of an ancient wadi system, framed by dramatic cliffs just 15 minutes northwest of Riyadh. As part of the Diriyah giga-project, the course celebrates the Kingdom’s heritage through a landscape that feels both authentic and unforgettable.
The layout follows the natural contours of the wadi, with Greg Norman’s design elevating the site’s striking topography to create a seamless and memorable golf experience. Wide fairways and strategic long carries challenge the world’s best players, while still offering a welcoming environment for those new to the game. From the 18-hole championship course to the academy layout, short-game area and state-of-the-art driving range, Wadi Safar offers something for every golfer.
Sustainability sits at the heart of Royal Golf Club, Wadi Safar's vision. The course has been carefully crafted to thrill golfers while demonstrating resource efficiency and a deep respect for the surrounding environment.
The landscape here is deeply woven into the kingdom’s history and culture, creating a truly one-of-a-kind setting. That’s why it was essential for the golf course to honour both the land and its legacy. Wadi Safar Golf Course stands as a powerful example of how thoughtful design can respect heritage while using golf as a meaningful gateway for people to connect with the landscape and its story.
Sam Thomas, Director of Golf Developments for GEO Foundation
We have a lot of responsibilities that we’ve taken on our shoulders but I’m very proud to say that we’ve done an excellent job with it. We have managed to preserve and incorporate the natural character of the Diriyah landscape into the golf course... The project will showcase over 300 years of culture and heritage to the world, and the golf course setting is absolutely perfect for that.
Greg Norman, Course Architect
