For expats living far from home, building a new lifestyle often includes finding communities where they feel both comfortable and inspired. One of the most vibrant ways to settle into a new environment is through sports – especially in golf and sports clubs, where leisure meets networking, wellness, and belonging.
From golf courses surrounded by picturesque views to state-of-the-art sports facilities with wellness lounges, these clubs are more than just places to play. They’re where friendships form, business ideas spark, and a strong sense of home begins to take shape for expats.
Let’s explore some of the most exciting and welcoming golf and sports clubs around the world that expats rave about.
The Els Club – Dubai, UAE
Dubai is famous for its luxurious lifestyle, and the Els Club reflects that reputation beautifully. Located in the heart of Dubai Sports City, the club is named after its designer – legendary golfer Ernie Els – and is one of the top picks for expats in the UAE.
With its championship-level golf course, incredible clubhouse, and fine-dining restaurants, the Els Club offers a premium experience for both seasoned golfers and those simply looking to enjoy the atmosphere. But the real charm lies in its community – a blend of locals, expats, and visitors all enjoying the sun, greens, and great conversations.
Whether you want to network with fellow professionals or unwind with a cold drink after a round, this club feels like a social sanctuary in the desert.
Sentosa Golf Club – Singapore
In one of Asia’s most expat-friendly cities, Sentosa Golf Club offers an exclusive experience. Nestled on the tropical Sentosa Island, this prestigious club is a peaceful escape from Singapore’s urban buzz.
It’s not just the lush greenery and panoramic views of the South China Sea that make this place special. The club is home to two world-class courses and attracts an international mix of members, making it ideal for expats looking to blend social life with sport.
From family weekend brunches to corporate tournaments, the club balances professional prestige with casual charm. For many expats, it becomes more than just a club – it’s a lifestyle.
The American Club – Hong Kong
More than just a sports club, the American Club in Hong Kong is a cultural hub for expats. With locations in Central and Tai Tam, it offers everything from squash courts to swimming pools, tennis lessons to wellness spas.
Members often praise its all-inclusive vibe. Whether you’re here for the gym, the kids’ activities, the restaurants, or just a quiet co-working space, the club supports every aspect of expat life. It’s a safe space where new friendships blossom, and families feel at home.
The Tai Tam location also offers a beach club vibe with water sports and scenic views, making it a popular weekend getaway without ever leaving the city.
The Country Club – Johannesburg, South Africa
Expats living in South Africa often seek a secure, vibrant community to grow roots in, and The Country Club Johannesburg provides exactly that. With two campuses – Auckland Park and Woodmead – the club spreads across vast, green acres and provides a quiet, safe haven for professionals and families alike.
The golf courses are among the best in Africa, but there’s also a strong emphasis on multisport engagement. Tennis, squash, bowling, and even walking trails allow members to keep active in different ways.
But what expats often remember most about the club is the warmth of its community. Many describe it as one of the best decisions they made during their relocation journey.
Jumeirah Golf Estates – Dubai, UAE
Another gem in Dubai, Jumeirah Golf Estates is more than a club – it’s a full-fledged residential and leisure destination. It’s especially popular among expat families who want access to world-class golf while living in a lush, gated community.
With two championship courses – Fire and Earth – this club is host to the prestigious DP World Tour Championship. It’s a hub for serious golfers, but the facilities go far beyond the game. From fitness centers and pools to restaurants and spa services, this is where luxury meets family-friendly vibes.
Expats often say it feels like living in a five-star resort that happens to have one of the best golf courses in the world.
The British Club – Bangkok, Thailand
Steeped in history but modern in its offerings, The British Club in Bangkok is a well-loved social and sporting club for expats in Thailand. With tennis courts, squash courts, a swimming pool, and regular social events, it has an unmistakable community energy.
Many members join for the sporting opportunities but stay for the sense of belonging. It’s a place where Sunday brunch becomes tradition, where kids grow up making lifelong friends, and where professionals decompress after a long week.
There’s also a touch of nostalgia here – a blend of British heritage and Thai hospitality that creates a unique and comforting experience for newcomers.
Millennium Golf and Country Club – Manila, Philippines
Located just outside Manila, Millennium Golf and Country Club has quietly built a reputation for being one of the most welcoming places for expats to play, relax, and build friendships.
The club’s well-maintained course is just the beginning. There are also dining options, lounges, event spaces, and wellness areas that promote a laid-back lifestyle while staying active. For expats adjusting to the fast pace of Manila, this club feels like an oasis.
It’s especially attractive to those who want a more casual, community-based club without the exclusivity of larger city clubs – a place where names are remembered and everyone feels at home.
Why Expats Value These Clubs So Much
More than just facilities, what makes these clubs so magnetic to expats is their ability to provide familiarity and connection. Moving to a new country can be isolating, especially in the early days. Sports clubs, especially those centered around golf and multi-sports, offer a comfortable setting where social connections naturally form.
Whether it’s cheering during a squash match, sharing a golf cart on a sunny afternoon, or chatting over dinner with a view of the 18th hole – these moments become the thread that weaves a new life abroad.
For families, these clubs offer structured activities for children, giving them a space to grow, make friends, and explore. For professionals, they offer invaluable networking opportunities, helping many build careers as well as friendships. And for individuals, these clubs often become a second home – a place that fills the emotional gap that sometimes comes with living abroad.
The Lifestyle You Deserve
Joining a golf or sports club as an expat isn’t just about the sport – it’s about embracing a lifestyle. One that prioritizes health, connection, leisure, and balance. It’s about surrounding yourself with people from diverse cultures who share common values – wellness, ambition, family, and community.
These clubs represent more than luxury and sport. They represent the human need to belong, to play, and to connect. They’re the bridges that link the foreign with the familiar, turning a new country into home.
If you’re an expat looking to elevate your life abroad, stepping into one of these clubs might just be your best move yet.
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