In a nation long associated with conflict and strife, the story of golf in Iraq stands as a powerful testament to resilience, hope, and determination.
Against the backdrop of years of turmoil, a growing like-minded community visionaries are working passionately to help revive the sport in this ancient Mesopotamian city also known as the “Cradle of Civilization.” From rebuilding courses to nurturing new talent, Iraq’s journey to reclaim its place in the world of golf reflects the indomitable spirit of a team of Iraqis determined to overcome its challenges, create a brighter future and inspire future players.
Laith Barnouti, a 50 year-old Iraqi golfer now based in Sydney, Australia, spoke to Worldwide Golf about the revival of a centuries-old game – that saw its fairways abandoned in Iraq for decades.
“Golf in Iraq has deep roots, predating most other Middle Eastern countries,” said Barnouti.
“Iraq and Egypt were the first nations in the region to have golf courses, dating back to the 1920’s and 1930’s.”
Barnouti recounts the British influence on the sport’s early days, with courses in Basra and Kirkuk built to serve British oil company employees marking the country’s early association with the sport.
“In 1946, Iraq’s first official golf course opened in Kirkuk,” he explains. “For decades, golf flourished in Iraq, with regular tournaments being held in the country.’
However, the political instability that followed disrupted the development of sports’ infrastructures, including golf. Subsequent decades saw the game struggle to thrive as Iraq faced ongoing political turmoil and the devastating effects of wars, including the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), the Gulf War (1990–1991) and the US led invasion in 2003.
During these periods, golf courses in Iraq were abandoned or fell into disrepair, with many being repurposed for other uses or left to deteriorate. The sport became virtually non-existent as the country’s focus shifted to survival amidst conflict.
The revival of golf in Iraq began just five years ago, driven by the passionate and determined efforts of the Iraqi Golf Federation. This dedicated group has worked tirelessly to breathe new life into the sport.
By aligning with pro-active international organisations such as the International Golf Federation (IGF), the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC), and The R&A, the Iraqi Golf Federation has laid a strong foundation to rebuild the sport from the ground up. Their efforts include developing new golf courses, fostering junior programs, and re-establishing Iraq’s presence on the regional and global golfing stage, symbolizing resilience and hope for the nation.
The efforts are beginning to bear fruit, with significant developments on the horizon. One of the most notable projects is the Erbil Hills Golf Club in Kurdistan, which is nearing completion.
“Sixteen holes are finished, and the course is set to officially open in February 2025,” Laith said. “The course is managed by Campbell Elliott, a talented Scottish professional who has been instrumental in training Iraqi juniors and maintaining the course. His work is laying the foundation for the sport’s future in Iraq.”
Reviving golf in Iraq is not without its challenges. Golf, in particular, is often viewed as a luxury sport in regions where resources are limited, and priorities tend to focus on more essential needs like security and basic infrastructure. The perception of golf as a sport for the elite can alienate potential enthusiasts, especially in a country grappling with social and economic challenges.
Furthermore, traditional sports such as football dominate, and have made it difficult for golf to gain the same level of recognition and support.
Despite these challenges, there are encouraging signs of the golf revival in Iraq. With the right investment, infrastructure development, and community engagement, the sport has the potential to regain its popularity, not just as a recreational activity but also as a tool for international diplomacy and tourism.
“Currently, there are no expatriate golfers in Iraq,” Laith admits. “Local participation is minimal, with about six juniors and six women actively involved. The Iraqi National Team comprises players like myself who live abroad. We face the unique challenge of coming together from different parts of the world to compete as a team.”
Despite the hurdles, there is hope. The R&A has recently extended its support, with plans to establish Iraq’s first official children’s golf school.
“We met Dominic Wall (R&A Director Asia-Pacific region) and Neal Graham (R&A Development Manager, Middle East and India) who have been incredibly supportive,” Laith says. “This initiative under the R&A umbrella is a significant step forward for Iraqi golf.”
The upcoming Erbil Hills Golf Club is another beacon of hope. Set to host the 2025 Pan Arab Golf Championship, the world-class course is managed by IMG Golf Services, which oversees some of the Middle East’s most iconic courses. With the backing of the Kurdistan Regional Government, Erbil Hills could become a regional hub for golf.
For Laith and his teammates, representing Iraq in international tournaments goes far beyond the game. For them, it is not just about competing; it is about changing perceptions, uniting their country, and inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams, despite the challenges they face. By taking part in these tournaments, they hope to bring attention to Iraq’s rich potential and encourage greater support for sports development, in the country, they once called home.
“Golf is a way to show the world that Iraq is resilient,” he says. “Despite the difficulties, we come together to play alongside teams from Arab countries like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, and the UAE. It’s a symbol of unity and perseverance.”
The team’s participation in events organized by the Arab Golf Federation (AGF) highlights Iraq’s commitment to reintegrating into the global golfing community.
Established in 1974, the AGF aims to streamline the governance of the sport across 19 member countries. Iraq’s renewed involvement is a testament to its determination to reclaim its place in the Arab and international golfing arena.
Looking ahead, Iraq’s golfing landscape is set for transformation. The Erbil Hills Golf Club is just the beginning. Plans are underway for a $1.5 billion Baghdad Golf Course and Spa, a mega mixed-use development featuring an international golf course, luxury residences, a five-star hotel, and a resort club. Announced by Abu Dhabi-based developer Eagle Hills, the project symbolizes Iraq’s ambition to create world-class facilities.
At its core, the revival of golf in Iraq is about creating opportunities for future generations. Laith’s efforts, along with those of the Iraqi Golf Federation, aim to inspire young Iraqis to take up the sport. Initiatives like junior training programs and international collaborations are crucial steps in this journey.
“Golf teaches patience, discipline, and respect,” Laith says. “These are values that resonate deeply in a country like Iraq, which has faced so many challenges. By investing in golf, we’re investing in the future of our youth and the unity of our nation.”
The road to rebuilding golf in Iraq is long, but the progress made so far is nothing short of remarkable. From abandoned fairways to newly built courses, forgotten tournaments to international participation, the sport is slowly but surely regaining its footing.
“We’re not just rebuilding golf courses,” Laith emphasises. “We’re rebuilding hope, community, and a sense of pride for Iraq. Golf has the power to bring people together, and that’s exactly what we’re striving for.”
As Iraq prepares to host the Pan Arab Golf Championship in 2025, the world will witness the culmination of these efforts. It will be a moment of pride not just for Iraqi golfers but for the entire nation. Through determination and resilience, Iraq is proving that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to rebuild and thrive.
For the players, it will be an opportunity to compete on home soil, elevating the sport’s profile and inspiring a new generation to embrace golf and other sports. This historic event will not only demonstrate Iraq’s progress but also highlight its ability to overcome challenges and emerge stronger, uniting people through the universal language of sport.
