Rory McIlroy is set to start his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a tournament in the United States.
Rory McIlroy will kick off his 2026 season in the United Arab Emirates, just like during his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again becomes the first major stage for the Northern Irishman as he pursues more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Debut at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament of 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Resort from January 15 to 18. This event is part of the DP World Tour and also serves as 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 during the first two days. On Sunday, the spotlight is solely on the pros competing for the tournament victory. McIlroy impressed in this format 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 stays in the UAE to compete at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back high-profile events allow the Northern Irishman to build early consistency, position himself optimally in the Race to Dubai, and start the season with less travel stress than later in the year.
Looking ahead across the Atlantic to California, McIlroy 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 win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in major tournaments and majors, his other tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026