At Jumeirah Golf Estates (JGE), the fairways are immaculate, the residential community is impressive, and the experiences are rich. Golfer, bespoke real estate broker, and podcast host Lee Johnston is dedicated to capturing these moments, offering residents a platform to share their stories through his podcast, ‘JGE Talks.’
From the initial impressions of the expansive Earth and Fire courses to clubhouse tips often overlooked by newcomers, Lee’s focus is on both the people and the place. Despite his bucket-list aspirations, he wouldn’t want to live anywhere else right now than in one of Dubai’s most vibrant golfing communities.
“The concept was simple,” Lee explains. “I wanted to highlight that what makes JGE special are its residents, business leaders, athletes, captains, and staff. Everyone’s journey to Dubai is unique: why they came, how they settled, and what keeps them here. I wanted to share those stories, the highs, the lows, and the successes, through the perspective of this community.”
Lee Johnston shares a moment with JGE Lady Captain Tanya Harrison, celebrating the people behind the community. – Supplied Photo
Lee first visited JGE a decade ago for a tournament while living in The Greens.
“Back then, it felt ‘miles away,’ with poor road access,” he recalls. “What stood out was the beautiful greenery, the golf courses, and the stunning homes. That first impression eventually influenced my current work in real estate, while still enjoying the golf lifestyle.”
The Spirit of JGE
When asked to describe JGE to someone who’s never been, Lee is quick to respond.
“It’s a genuine community,” he says. “The clubhouse is the heart, where people gather for golf, work, family, or just to socialize. Everyone comes together in the day-to-day life here. The amenities, homes, and lifestyle make everyone feel they belong.”
Even the most accomplished residents, Lee has noticed, continue to strive for more.
“That’s very Dubai, very JGE,” he notes. “Many residents moved here without much prior time in Dubai; some hadn’t been here at all. They took the leap, and it worked out.”
When asked about a dream podcast guest, Lee doesn’t hesitate: “Tommy Fleetwood, without a doubt. He’s one of the world’s top golfers, a JGE resident, and has established the fantastic Tommy Fleetwood Academy here. I’d love to hear his journey and why JGE is his home when he’s not on tour.”
For hidden gems, Lee directs newcomers to the clubhouse: “Residents know it well, but first-time visitors often overlook it,” he says. “It offers restaurants, a gym, a pool, tennis and padel courts, a driving range, a spa, a salon, and the Academy. Plus, getting around by golf cart is not only practical but also a lot of fun.”
Bucket-list dreams
Lee balances adventure with family time in his goals.
“I’d love to travel the world with my family,” he shares. “I also have some wild dreams, like playing football at Anfield or competing on the European or PGA Tour. It’s all about the experiences.”
And if he could live anywhere else in the world for a year?
“Honestly, I’d still choose Dubai, especially JGE. Summers are hot, but winters, lifestyle, safety, and opportunities make it unbeatable. Maybe in 10 or 15 years, I’ll consider a quiet beachside retreat, but right now, there’s no better place.”
Besides hosting his podcast bi-weekly, Lee co-founded a boutique real estate brokerage focused on Jumeirah Golf Estates. Alongside his wife, Kelly, he has built a business deeply connected to the community, selling and renting homes, playing golf, and engaging with the people who make JGE what it is.
