What Golf Gear Should Tourists Bring to Dubai?

Dubai punishes packing mistakes in a way that European golf destinations do not. Heat, humidity in the shoulder months, and extremely fine sand combine to expose gaps in a bag that would be invisible at home.

The essentials

• Two golf gloves minimum — one will be soaked by the ninth hole
• A waffle towel and a dry towel (see the two-towel system)
• Electrolyte tablets, not just water. Plain water alone is not enough above 35°C
• A wide-brim or structured cap, and long-sleeve UV base layers if you burn
• Ventilated shoe bag — closed shoes in a hotel wardrobe in Dubai humidity is a bad plan
• A cooler bag if you have cart space; club drinks pricing is what it is

The four things people forget

1. 01Spare soft spikes and a spike wrench. Firm desert cart paths chew them.
2. 02A club brush with a groove pick. Fine sand compacts in grooves in a way grass never does.
3. 03Sunscreen you can apply with sweaty hands — sticks beat lotions on a golf course.
4. 04A travel organiser so tees, markers and balls do not migrate to the bottom of the bag.

Flying with clubs

• Hard case if you own one; if not, stuff a soft case tight — movement causes shaft damage, not impact
• Remove the driver head if it is adjustable, or at minimum use a stiff arm
• Airlines flying to DXB generally treat clubs as standard checked baggage within weight limits — confirm at booking
• Tag the bag inside as well as outside

What not to bother bringing

Rain gear, heavy sweaters and winter mitts. From October to April the evening can be cool enough for a light layer and that is the extent of it. Bring the space back for water and a second pair of shoes.