Egypt hosts World Golf Awards 2026, boosting golf tourism across Africa
Egypt hosted the 13th World Golf Awards 2026 at Madinaty Golf Club, the first time the ceremony was held in Africa, drawing international golf professionals and tourism leaders. The event, announced on 8 November 2026, spotlights Egypt’s expanding golf tourism market.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Egypt hosts first African World Golf Awards ceremony
- Timing
- Event took place in November 2026
- Who is affected
- Golf tourists and industry professionals worldwide
The details
- Announced by
- Travel And Tour World
Event Overview
The 13th annual World Golf Awards were held at Madinaty Golf Club in New Cairo, Egypt. The ceremony gathered golf professionals, tourism representatives and hospitality leaders to recognise excellence in golf destinations, courses, accommodation and services.
Key Winners
Portugal was named World’s Best Golf Destination, while its Silver Coast earned the Emerging Golf Destination award. China’s Mission Hills Haikou won World’s Best Golf Hotel, and Scotland secured several titles including World’s Best 36 Old and New Course.
- Portugal – World’s Best Golf Destination
- Portugal’s Silver Coast – World’s Best Emerging Golf Destination
- Mission Hills Haikou, China – World’s Best Golf Hotel
- Trump International Golf Links, Aberdeen – World’s Best 36 Old and New Course
Implications for Golf Tourism
Hosting the awards places Egypt before an influential international audience, enhancing its visibility as a golf tourism destination. The event supports Egypt’s strategy to diversify tourism beyond heritage sites, aiming to attract higher‑value visitors and longer stays through championship courses and luxury hospitality.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers interested in golf holidays can now consider Egypt as a new destination option.
- Existing bookings for golf trips to Portugal, China or Scotland remain unaffected by the awards.
Cost and documents
- No new fees or documentation requirements were introduced by the awards.
- Travelers should continue to meet standard visa and entry requirements for each country.
What you need to do
- Golf tourists should monitor tour operators for new packages featuring Egypt’s Madinaty Golf Club.
- Industry professionals may explore partnership opportunities highlighted during the ceremony.
Who this affects
-
International golf tourists
The awards highlight new and emerging golf destinations worldwide.
What to do Consider adding Egypt or other award‑winning locations to travel itineraries.
-
Golf tour operators
Recognition of destinations creates marketing opportunities.
What to do Develop and promote specialised golf travel packages featuring award‑winning venues.
-
Hospitality providers in golf resorts
Awards emphasize the importance of integrated accommodation and golf facilities.
What to do Maintain high service standards to attract award‑seeking visitors.
Frequently asked questions
When and where were the 2026 World Golf Awards held?
The 13th World Golf Awards took place in November 2026 at Madinaty Golf Club in New Cairo, Egypt, marking the first ceremony held on the African continent.
Which country won the World’s Best Golf Destination in 2026?
Portugal was awarded the title of World’s Best Golf Destination at the 2026 World Golf Awards.
What significance does Egypt hosting the awards have for golf tourism?
Hosting the awards puts Egypt in front of a global golf audience, boosting its profile as a golf tourism destination and supporting efforts to attract higher‑value visitors.
Did the awards introduce any new travel requirements for visitors?
No new travel fees, visas or documentation were introduced; visitors must continue to follow existing entry requirements for each destination.
How can golf tour operators use the award results?
Operators can create new travel packages that feature award‑winning courses and resorts, leveraging the recognition to market specialised golf holidays.
