Rory McIlroy will soon begin his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a start in America marking his season opener.
Rory McIlroy is set to open his 2026 season in the United Arab Emirates, just as he did in 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 will play his first tournament of 2026 from January 15 to 18 at the Dubai Invitational held at the Dubai Creek Resort. 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 team up with amateurs on the first two days, while Sunday focuses solely on the pros competing for the tournament victory. McIlroy impressed with this format last year, especially with his win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Launchpad for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy will remain in the UAE to compete in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back schedule of two high-profile events allows the Northern Irishman to build early consistency, position himself well in the Race to Dubai standings, and enjoy a season start with less travel stress than later in the year.
His focus then shifts across the Atlantic to California for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15, a tournament he has already committed to. This event holds special significance as he triumphed there last year, securing his first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While McIlroy is expected to participate in major tournaments and majors, his broader tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026