Rory McIlroy will soon begin his 2026 golf season, starting with two DP World Tour events and a tournament in the U.S.
Rory McIlroy will open his 2026 golf season as he did during his career Grand Slam year, starting in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai once again becomes the first major stage for the Northern Irishman in his quest for more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Kickoff 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 serves as the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. Among his competitors is defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals play alongside amateurs on the first two days. On Sunday, the focus shifts exclusively to the pros competing for the tournament win. McIlroy impressed with this format last year, especially with his victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Springboard 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 high-level events allow the Northern Irishman to build early consistency and position himself well in the Race to Dubai while reducing travel stress compared to later in the season.
His focus then shifts across the Atlantic to California, where he has 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, marking the first win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While he is expected to participate in major tournaments and majors, his full schedule beyond these events remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026