Donald Trump has officially opened a second 18-hole course at Trump International Golf Links in Balmedie, near Aberdeen.

The New Course becomes the latest addition to Scotland’s golfing landscape. The opening, held on 29 July 2025, was marked by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and inaugural tee-off attended by Trump’s family and several golfing greats in town for the PGA Seniors Championship. Designed by Martin Hawtree, the new layout weaves through coastal dunes, heathland, and wetland terrain, offering a distinctive experience that complements the acclaimed championship course opened in 2012.

Strategically, the expansion strengthens Scotland’s northeast as a world-class golfing destination. With three World Top 100 courses already nearby—Royal Aberdeen, Cruden Bay, and the original Trump layout – this addition is poised to attract even greater numbers of golfing tourists. Securing both the Nexo Championship on the DP World Tour and the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship on the Legends Tour amid the grand opening further elevates the region and offers the venue high-profile competitive exposure.

The project has not been without its controversy. Environmental groups have criticised the development for damaging protected dunes and undermining earlier “green” claims. Politically, Scottish First Minister John Swinney has faced criticism for allocating £180,000 in public funds to support the DP World Tour event – seen by some as taxpayer backing for a presidential property under the banner of tourism promotion.

Having played the original Trump International course, I can say that if the same quality has been achieved here, it will be well worth a visit. The existing layout showcases some of the most stunning coastal terrain I’ve seen, managing to challenge the very best players while remaining enjoyable and playable for the everyday golfer. If the New Course matches that balance, it could quickly become a must-play in the region.