Rory McIlroy is set to begin his 2026 golf season soon, starting with two DP World Tour events and a tournament in the US.
Rory McIlroy will launch his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, just like in his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again becomes the first major stage for the Northern Irishman in his pursuit of more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational
Rory McIlroy will play his first tournament of 2026 from January 15 to 18 at the Dubai Invitational held at the Dubai Creek Resort. The event is part of the DP World Tour and also marks the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. McIlroy will face, among others, defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day pro-am event where professionals and amateurs play together on the first two days. On Sunday, only the pros compete for the tournament victory, a format where McIlroy impressed last year, notably with his win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Springboard for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy will stay in the UAE to compete in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The close succession of these two high-class events allows the Northern Irishman to build early consistency, position himself well in the Race to Dubai, and start the season with less travel stress than later in the year.
Then, his focus will shift 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 the first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in the major tournaments and other big events, his complete tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026