By Neha Mehrotra
Imagine a world where opulence and exclusivity intertwine, creating sanctuaries for the ultra-elite to socialize, relax, and conduct business away from prying eyes. Behind the impenetrable gates and discreet facades of the world’s most private members’ clubs, the upper echelons of society come together, united by immense wealth, social prestige, and an insatiable drive for success.
Whether it’s rubbing shoulders with tech moguls in Montana’s breathtaking Rocky Mountains, docking yachts alongside royalty in Monaco, or retreating to a Highland estate steeped in luxury and tradition, each club offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the one percent. Patience, connections, and substantial financial investment are often the keys to entry.
Here’s a glimpse inside nine of the most exclusive members’ clubs around the world.
1. YellowStone Club , Montana, USA
If you want to rub elbows with the likes of Bill Gates, Google founder Eric Schmidt, and former US vice president Dan Quayle, the Yellowstone Club in Montana’s Rocky Mountains is the place to be. This exclusive enclave features an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, along with 2,700 acres of world-class ski slopes. The club promises its members unparalleled exclusivity, luxury, and privacy, catering only to the elite—top-tier influencers, notable families, and business leaders. Membership is capped at 864, and becoming a member requires owning a home in the area, which costs between $5 million for a small condo and over $25 million for a 360-acre ranch. Additionally, there’s a $400,000 initiation fee and a $40,000 annual membership fee.
2. Yacht Club De Monaco
The Yacht Club de Monaco, founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier III, allows members to enjoy exclusive access to YCM’s exclusive marina, which includes a stately clubhouse, a refined library, an exquisite restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym, sophisticated meeting rooms, and a resplendent ballroom. To become a member, you will need two sponsors, who will each write a letter introducing you to the club and your motives for joining. Then, you’ll need approval from the club president, none other than Monaco’s Prince Albert II, who examines the applications twice a year. Aside from the price of your yacht that you’ll dock in the marina, membership is entirely free!
3. Tanglin Club, Singapore
Joining the Tanglin Club, Singapore’s oldest and most prestigious members’ club, grants access to an array of luxurious amenities, including 27 elegantly appointed suites, a pristine swimming pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and multiple on-site dining establishments offering exquisite cuisine. Beyond these exclusive facilities, members enjoy reciprocal privileges at over 130 esteemed clubs worldwide, such as the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, the Hong Kong Club, and the Harvard Club. Although, after waiting 10 years and paying a joining fee of SG$100,000 (HK$575,000), you’ll still need an invitation to get in!
4. The R360 Club , Across USA
(Source : Bloomberg)
The R360 Club is the epitome of exclusivity, and membership hinges on two crucial criteria: a net worth exceeding $100 million and a US$180,000 three-year membership fee. However, wealth alone won’t secure your entry. To access unparalleled investment opportunities, retreats on Necker Island, personalised security services, and training from a former FBI agent, you must be referred by two existing members and pass a series of interviews. These interviews are based on a comprehensive 25-page dossier detailing your motivations and financial objectives. Only those who meet these stringent requirements can join this elite circle.
5. Capital Club, Dubai
The Capital Club Dubai, nestled in the prestigious Dubai International Financial Centre, is an elite private business club for the top echelon of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers. Members are granted access to opulent lounges, exquisite dining experiences, and state-of-the-art private meeting rooms, all designed to facilitate seamless networking and high-level business discussions. After being approved by the Membership Committee, a rumoured US$15,000 joining fee will get you through the door and buy you access to social events, including lectures by prominent speakers, businessmen and politicians.
6. Silenio Club, Paris
Silencio is one of the most exclusive of all member clubs in Europe, making it key to the top of the world list as they are off-the-grid. There is only an Instagram with a few black-and-white photos, and the entrance is a descent into an underground club. This may not sound luxurious, but once you reach the inside, you understand what the hype is all about. Founded by American Filmmaker David Lynch, the club is a haven for creatives, with memberships ‘reserved primarily for people who can demonstrate an established experience in artistic and international creative circles like cinema, music, design, literature, etc.
7. The Carnegie Club, Scottish Highlands
The 8,000-acre estate boasts a championship golf course, a luxurious spa, and 21 elegantly appointed guest rooms, making it one of the UK’s most prestigious private members’ clubs. Membership to this exclusive club is priced at £8,000 annually, accompanied by a one-time joining fee of £25,000. Members are gently awakened each morning by the resident bagpiper, and breakfast is accompanied by a live organist, with every meal at Skibo generously prepared using local Highland ingredients.Additional activities include clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, off-road driving, and relaxing in the stylish pool and spa, where visitors don white dressing gowns beneath a stunning glass-panelled roof.
8. Hurlingham Club, London
As one of the world’s most exclusive private clubs, Hurlingham Club, which counts the Princess of Wales and Rafael Nadal as members, has a 30-year waiting list that is now closed, unless you are the child of a current member. Dating back to the 1860s, the gorgeous manor house in Fulham has 42 acres with lush gardens, four indoor squash courts, a fitness centre with a half-size Olympic indoor pool and a lot more.
9. Annabel’s London
Annabel’s, an iconic fixture in London’s social scene since 1963, has been the go-to spot for the international elite. Founded by entrepreneur Mark Birley, Annabel is the ultimate playground for glamorous grown-ups, where you can clink glasses in numerous bars, brunch in one of several restaurants, or dance the night away in the world-famous nightclub, frequented by the likes of Princess Diana and Kate Moss. Membership costs £1,250 initially, with an annual fee of £3,250, promising an exclusive experience mingling with royalty and supermodels.
