Investment supports Abu Dhabi’s goal to become a regional hub for elite golf and sports tourism
Yas Links Abu Dhabi has unveiled its upgraded Golf Academy, positioning itself as one of the most advanced golf training facilities in the Middle East.
As first reported by Golf Business, the new facilities include two indoor swing studios, a dedicated putting studio, and climate-controlled teaching spaces. The investment is part of a wider plan by operator Viya Golf to improve coaching standards and support player development across all levels.
The Academy aims to offer year-round training, even during the peak summer months, by using indoor, temperature-controlled environments and advanced technology.
A major feature of the upgrade is a new partnership with PLATFORM Golf, a major player in the simulator technology market. Yas Links is the first facility in the region to install this system, which replicates real slope, lie and putting conditions indoors.
Each studio is equipped with Trackman launch monitors, Swing Catalyst pressure plates, video analysis tools and full simulator capability. These systems provide coaches and players with real-time data to support performance and improvement.
The new putting studio features SAM PuttLab, one of the most advanced putting analysis systems on the market. This supports the launch of a dedicated putting programme at the Academy.
Marc Arnold, Director of Instruction at Viya Golf, said: “This is a significant step for Yas Links and for golf in Abu Dhabi. The new Academy gives us the tools to deliver top-level coaching in a facility that matches the best in the world.”
Growth in participation and performance
The launch comes during a period of growth for Yas Links. In 2024, the club recorded a 49% increase in memberships, a 101% rise in coaching sessions, and a 26% increase in rounds played.
The Academy has also seen strong community engagement. More than 140 juniors have taken part in competitions this year. New programmes for women and beginners are also helping to make the sport more accessible.
Yas Links is a key part of Abu Dhabi’s sports and tourism strategy. It hosts the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, a Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour. The course is the first true links-style layout in the region and is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the Middle East.
The Golf Academy relaunch is the first phase in a broader rollout by Viya Golf, which will see its facilities rebranded under the new Viya Golf Performance Institute.
The initiative aims to combine elite-level training with community programmes to grow participation and improve standards across the region.
