Rory McIlroy is set to start his 2026 golf year with two DP World Tour events and a tournament in the United States.
Rory McIlroy will open his 2026 golf season in the United Arab Emirates, just as he did in his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again serves as the first major stage for the Northern Irishman in his quest for more titles before he moves to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament of 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational held at the Dubai Creek Resort from January 15 to 18. 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 off against, among others, 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, only the pros compete for the tournament victory. McIlroy already 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 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 enables McIlroy to build early consistency and position himself well in the Race to Dubai, while also reducing travel stress compared to later in the season.
He will then shift his focus across the Atlantic to California, having 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 to secure the first win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While McIlroy is expected to participate in major tournaments and majors, his full schedule for other events remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026