Rory McIlroy is about to kick off his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a start in America.
Rory McIlroy will begin his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, just like during his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again becomes the Northern Irishman’s first major stage in his pursuit of more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament in 2026 takes place from January 15 to 18 at the Dubai Invitational at the Dubai Creek Resort. The event is part of the DP World Tour and also the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. Among others, McIlroy will face defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event, where professionals play alongside amateurs in the first two days. On Sunday, only the professionals compete for the tournament victory. This format suited McIlroy well last year, especially with his win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Springboard for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy remains in the UAE to compete from January 22 to 25 at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. The back-to-back high-level events allow the Northern Irishman to build early consistency and position himself well in the Race to Dubai while reducing travel stress early in the season.
Then his focus shifts across the Atlantic to California, where he has already committed to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. This tournament holds special significance, as he triumphed there last year, securing his first victory in his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in major tournaments and majors, his overall tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026