The flagship course at Emirates Golf Club, The Majlis championship course is a challenging par 72, layout. Sculptured around the original tall desert dunes in 1987, The Majlis was the first grass course in the Middle East and takes its name from the Arabic word for meeting place. One of the most prominent features on the course is the Majlis positioned between the 8th and 9th holes, while one of the most challenging holes on the course is the par 4, dogleg 8th. Stroke index 3 and playing a full 434 yards, it has the unusual distinction of playing up-hill and requires a long, well directed drive to leave a reasonable second shot to its small, undulating green where the dreaded 3-putt is always a threat. The Majlis has developed a worthy reputation worldwide as a testing layout for even the best golfers. This desert miracle features hundreds of indigenous species of flora and fauna, beautifully complemented by meandering fairways and seven fresh and saltwater lakes. Dubai Desert Classic Host course: 1989 – 1990, 1992 – 1998, 2001 – 2008.