Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The Els Club Dubai, one of Troon International Division’s marquee destinations, is set to further bolster its impressive offering following three exciting new announcements.
From January 1, The Els Club Dubai will welcome the re-brand of its golf academy to the Claude Harmon ③ Performance Golf Academy Dubai. Over the past 10 years the Academy has been the leader in the UAE market with much of that success attributable to Claude Harmon III, who was based in Dubai for several years before he moved back to his native USA.
Widely-considered one of the world’s most high-profile instructors, the list of players under his tutelage includes world number one Dustin Johnson, three-time Major winner Brooks Koepka and Ryder Cup stalwart Rickie Fowler. “With his knowledge of the region and the Academy itself, Claude will further strengthen its success when he takes on the naming rights from his father, Butch,” said a Club spokesperson.
Hot-on-the-heels of this announcement is the appointment of Jamie McConnell as Director of Instruction (DOI) at the Academy. McConnell has been by current DOI Justin Parsons and will replace Parsons, who is moving to the US in January.
A highly respected swing instructor, McConnell, who first joined the facility in 2013, will bring a wealth of knowledge and talent to his new role. An AA PGA professional and TPI Level 2 professional, the Irishman has worked with several top players since transitioning from life as a full-time playing professional.
Early next year, the Club will begin work on building a new state-of-the-art leisure facility, including a gym, a large resort-style swimming pool, a swim-up pool bar, a children’s play area and an additional restaurant. The leisure facilities are expected to be fully operational by September.

“We could not be more excited about this incredible development to our club and cannot wait for the changes to be made and for golfers to enjoy next year. This is a fantastic addition to the membership offering at The Els Club Dubai and we are confident of the success that it will bring to our property and the wider community,” said Karl Whitehead, General Manager of The Els Club Dubai.
“The Troon properties in the Middle East are of exceptional quality and we are delighted to be working alongside one of the region’s leading clubs on this expansion,” said Mark Chapleski, President of Troon International, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
He added: “It is a progressive move and one we whole-heartedly support. We are also delighted for Jamie, who has been exceptional over several years already. I’m confident he, and the new Claude Harmon ③ Performance Golf Academy Dubai, will thrive at The Els Club Dubai.”