Travel Daily News: Egypt makes history as World Golf Awards stages first African ceremony at Madinaty Golf Club

Thu 12 November 2026

Egypt made history as the World Golf Awards brought its 13th annual Gala Ceremony to Africa for the first time. The event took place at Madinaty Golf Club and revealed the winners of the 2026 awards. It also marked a significant milestone for Egypt’s golf tourism sector.

The ceremony formed the climax of a wider golfing itinerary. This included the World Golf Awards Classic, played on Madinaty’s 18-hole Championship Course. Owned by TMG Golf and managed by Troon, Madinaty Golf Club sits within the master-planned city of Madinaty. The development lies on the eastern edge of New Cairo.

Which international destinations and golf brands were recognised?

Portugal secured the title of “World’s Best Golf Destination”. Meanwhile, its Silver Coast received “World’s Best Emerging Golf Destination”. China’s Mission Hills Haikou claimed the award for “World’s Best Golf Hotel”.

Scotland also secured several major honours. Trump International Golf Links, Aberdeen, won”World’s Best 36 Old & New Course”. At Trump Turnberry Resort, Trump’s Twelve received “World’s Best Par 3 Golf Course”. The Lighthouse also claimed “World’s Best Halfway House”.

Elsewhere, ION 54 won “Golf Business of the Year”. Fairways and FunDays received “World’s Best Golf Tour Operator”. In the equipment categories, PING claimed “World’s Best Golf Club Brand”. FootJoy won “World’s Best Golf Shoe Brand”.

The ceremony also recognised an outstanding contribution to golf course design. Robert Trent Jones Jr. received the “Lifetime Achievement Award”. His designs span more than 300 courses in over 50 countries across six continents.

Egypt marks historic milestone for golf tourism

Chris Frost, Managing Director of World Golf Awards, said: “Bringing World Golf Awards to Africa for the first time was a landmark moment for us, and Egypt proved a magnificent host. Madinaty Golf Club gave us a championship course, superb hospitality and a warm welcome for the leaders of golf tourism from around the world. My congratulations go to every winner.”

Omar Hisham Talaat, Chief Business Development Officer of TMG, said: “Hosting the 13th annual World Golf Awards at Madinaty Golf Club has been a truly proud and historic moment, not only for TMG Golf but for Egypt and the African continent. Welcoming this prestigious international event to Africa for the very first time demonstrates Egypt’s ability to host world-class sporting occasions and deliver exceptional experiences on the global stage.

“The success of this event reflects our continued commitment to excellence, our investment in world-class sporting and hospitality infrastructure, and our vision to position Madinaty Golf Club among the world’s leading golf destinations. We are particularly proud to have welcomed distinguished guests and industry leaders from across the international golfing community, giving them the opportunity to experience firsthand the quality of our championship course, our facilities and the warmth of Egyptian hospitality.

Establishing Egypt as a premier international golf tourism destination

Omar continued: “This is more than a successful event; it is another important milestone in establishing Egypt as a premier international golf tourism destination. We believe this achievement will open the door to further prestigious international events, strengthen Egypt’s position on the global golfing map and create lasting opportunities for the country’s sports and tourism sectors.

“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the World Golf Awards, the leadership and management of TMG for their continued vision, commitment and investment in developing world-class destinations, Troon, our valued partners, and the entire Madinaty Golf Club team for their outstanding dedication and professionalism in delivering an event of such international significance. This achievement is a testament to the collective efforts of everyone involved and reinforces our ambition to position Egypt among the world’s leading golf and tourism destinations.”

Industry-wide voting determines 2026 winners

The 2026 World Golf Awards results follow a year-long search for the world’s favourite golf tourism and hospitality brands. The voting process involved golf industry professionals, the media and members of the public.

Each category’s nominee received the award after securing the highest number of votes. The results recognised achievements across golf destinations, accommodation, tour operations, equipment brands and course design.

By hosting the 13th annual ceremony, Egypt became the first African country to welcome the World Golf Awards. The event brought international golf tourism representatives to Madinaty Golf Club and highlighted the country’s role in the global golf tourism industry.