Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi Recognised as the Benchmark for Excellence at Inaugural 59club Global Awards
Tuesday 9th September 2025; Dubai, United Arab Emirates: For over a decade, 59club has set the international benchmark for measuring and rewarding customer service excellence in golf, leisure, and hospitality. In line with its commitment to raising global standards, Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi have consistently been recognised with exceptional accolades, underlining their position as industry leaders in the region and beyond.
This year, 59club introduced the inaugural Global Service Excellence Awards, a landmark celebration staged at the iconic Belfry Hotel & Resort from 25th – 27th August. The event gathered more than 300 distinguished guests, representing 120 venues across 22 countries, making it one of the most significant gatherings in the world of golf and hospitality.
Within this global showcase, Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi’s sustained dedication to delivering world-class golf and leisure experiences in the UAE was honoured with multiple prestigious awards. Achievements were based solely on 59club’s independent mystery shopper programme, the industry’s most objective measure of service standards, etiquette, and guest experience.
Among the honours, the group’s portfolio was celebrated within the Signature Collection, awarded to only 25 of the world’s most distinguished properties. Every 18-hole course under the Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi umbrella received this recognition, including Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, and Yas Links Abu Dhabi.
Further recognition came with the Eminent Collection, 59club’s most prestigious accolade, awarded to properties and leaders demonstrating consistent service excellence over five or more consecutive years. Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi properties featured prominently, with Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, and Yas Links Abu Dhabi all inducted.
Amongst the individual honours, Matthew Perry, Golf Course Superintendent at Emirates Golf Club, was recognised within the Eminent Collection of Leaders. Perry’s exceptional commitment has ensured immaculate course conditioning for members, guests, and professionals competing in the annual Hero Dubai Desert Classic, while his career has included international recognition such as volunteering with the Agronomy team at the 2025 Masters at Augusta.
The highlight of the awards was the presentation of the Global Manager of the Year Awards, recognising visionary leaders who inspire teams and set new benchmarks in customer service. Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi proudly celebrated Franco Botha, Director of Golf at Jumeirah Golf Estates, who was named Global Golf Operations Manager of the Year.
This accolade recognises Franco’s professionalism, innovation, and passion for golf operations, which have elevated member and guest experiences to the very highest levels. His leadership reflects a philosophy of delivering seamless service underpinned by strong operational foundations; a balance that ensures Jumeirah Golf Estates consistently exceeds expectations.
Speaking on his award, Franco commented: “I am, of course, incredibly honoured to be highlighted within these awards, but it would not be possible without the exceptional team around me. This recognition is for the entire Golf Operations team, whose dedication and commitment allow us to create truly memorable member and guest experiences every day.”
Franco emphasised that personalised service is at the core of success: “Ultimately, it’s about creating balance; delivering a seamless experience on the surface while maintaining the operational foundations that make it possible. This approach ensures that Jumeirah Golf Estates continues to set the standard for excellence in Dubai’s golf and hospitality offerings.”
Reflecting on his career highlights, Franco recalled a round of golf with colleagues and members that reinforced the importance of relationships in the industry: “It’s more than just golf. It’s about connecting with people, creating memories, and delivering a level of service that makes every experience stand out.”
He also praised the DP World Tour Championship, the finale of the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai, as a defining moment for the club each year: “Everyone enjoys every minute of tournament week; it’s such a unique experience to be part of an event of that scale.” Yet, Franco noted, it is the week after that truly demonstrates the team’s strength, as focus shifts from global tournament delivery back to re-opening both courses and welcoming members with the same uncompromising standards.
Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi’s recognition across the Signature and Eminent Collections, combined with Franco Botha’s global accolade, cements the group’s position as a world leader in golf club management, luxury hospitality, and customer service excellence.
A heartfelt congratulations goes to Franco Botha, Matthew Perry, and every club within the portfolio whose consistent pursuit of excellence continues to showcase Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Abu Dhabi as the true benchmark for golf, leisure, and hospitality, not only in the Middle East but on the global stage.
Learn more about the 59club Global Service Excellence Awards, here.