Five Iron Golf secures global investors to expand across Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Global investors fuel expansion at Yas Bay and Business Bay venues
DUBAI – Five Iron Golf’s UAE franchisee has announced the successful close of a growth financing round led by Powerhouse Capital, with backing from professional athletes and global investors.
Among those joining the round are NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., PGA Tour winner Kurt Kitayama, LPGA star Alison Lee, and Sharp Alpha’s Managing Partner Lloyd Danzig. The deal paves the way for rapid expansion across the Emirates, with two new venues scheduled to open in early 2026 at Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and DAMAC Towers by Paramount Hotels & Resorts in Business Bay, Dubai.
The UAE franchise currently operates its flagship Five Iron Dubai at the Westin Mina Seyahi – Dubai Marina, which opened in September 2024 and has swiftly become a standout destination. Combining cutting-edge golf simulators, curated dining, nightlife, and community-driven experiences, the brand has reshaped perceptions of the sport in the region.
What is coming to Yas Island?
The Abu Dhabi venue at Yas Bay Waterfront will span nearly 24,000 square feet, making it one of the largest Five Iron Golf sites worldwide. Guests will have access to 12 state-of-the-art Trackman simulators, premium Callaway Tour Club Fitting, and equipment offerings. Complementing the technology-driven sports experience, the venue will feature chef-led food menus, curated cocktails, craft beverages, and a scenic terrace with waterfront views. Located within one of Abu Dhabi’s most dynamic lifestyle destinations, the venue is set to become a regional hotspot for both golf enthusiasts and casual visitors.
How will Dubai expand?
The Business Bay venue will bring a more intimate yet equally dynamic setup. With five Trackman golf simulators and a modern sports bar enhanced with augmented reality games, the site will cater to the fast-paced lifestyle of the Business Bay and Downtown Dubai districts. Designed for versatility, it will provide flexible event spaces ideal for corporate functions, casual gatherings, and nightlife experiences.
The dual opening marks a significant step for Five Iron Golf UAE, which plans further expansion across Asia, Europe, and Africa. This growth mirrors the broader surge in demand for premium location-based entertainment globally.
Five Iron Golf in UAE
The expansion comes as the UAE experiences rapid population and economic growth, fuelling demand for innovative lifestyle and leisure offerings. With its diverse population and thriving tourism sector, the Emirates have emerged as a prime location for global entertainment concepts.
Matthew Csillag, Managing Partner of the UAE franchise group, highlighted: “We’re thrilled to welcome Powerhouse Capital and such an impressive group of investors into the Five Iron UAE family. Their support helps strengthen our mission to bring a world-class, community-driven golf and lifestyle experience to the UAE and beyond. We are excited about our openings at Yas Bay and Business Bay, two anchor locations that reflect the energy, diversity, and sophistication of the Emirates.”
David Zabinsky, fellow franchise partner, added: “The UAE is fast evolving into the entertainment capital of the world, with a broad and sophisticated landscape of offerings, from sport, to leisure, to best-in-class dining, to gaming, and more. Five Iron sits at the intersection of these, offering something for everyone, golfer or not, and we could not be more ecstatic to grow our dynamic concept throughout the Emirates.”
Powerhouse Capital’s Ian Doody underlined the investment’s rationale: “At Powerhouse, we’re strong believers in location-based entertainment, especially those that combine participatory sports with compelling consumer experiences. Matthew and David have built an exceptional platform and are now expanding the flagship Five Iron Golf venue in the Dubai Marina into a true regional force.”
Jared Solomon, Co-Founder and CEO of Five Iron Golf, further remarked: “The UAE team continues to impress us with their commitment to building the Five Iron brand with the same authenticity and energy that defines Five Iron in the U.S. This team’s capital raise and expansion plans prove that the appetite for accessible, modern golf entertainment is strong in the Middle East.”
With more than 30 locations across 16 states and five countries, Five Iron Golf has become a global leader in the indoor golf and entertainment sector.