Rory McIlroy will soon begin his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events in Dubai and a start in the US.
Rory McIlroy is set to open his 2026 season in the United Arab Emirates, just as he did during his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again serves as the first major stage for the Northern Irishman in pursuit of more titles before he heads to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Season Opener at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament of 2026 takes place 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 marks the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. McIlroy will face off against, among others, defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event, where professionals play alongside amateurs on the first two days. The final day focuses solely on the pros competing for the tournament title—a format in which McIlroy already excelled last year, especially with his victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Launchpad for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy stays in the UAE to compete in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back scheduling of these high-caliber events allows the Northern Irishman to build early consistency, position himself well in the Race to Dubai, and enjoy a less travel-intensive start compared to later in the season.
Following these events, his focus shifts across the Atlantic to California, where he is committed to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. This tournament holds special significance, as McIlroy triumphed there last year, earning his first victory in his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in the major tournaments and big events, the rest of his tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026