Rory McIlroy is set to begin his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a start in the US.
Rory McIlroy will open his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, just like during 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 heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start 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 marks the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. He will face competitors including defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals play alongside amateurs in the first two days. On Sunday, only the pros compete for the tournament victory. McIlroy already impressed last year with this format, 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 at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back schedule of two high-caliber events allows McIlroy to build early consistency and gain a strong position in the Race to Dubai with less travel stress compared to later in the season.
Following that, his focus shifts across the Atlantic to California, where he has already committed to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. This tournament is particularly significant, as McIlroy triumphed there last year, claiming his first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While he is expected to participate in the major tournaments and bigger events, his overall tournament schedule for the season remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026