Rory McIlroy is about to start his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a US tournament.
Rory McIlroy will kick off his 2026 season in the United Arab Emirates, just like during his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again serves as the Northern Irishman’s first major stage in his quest for more titles before he heads 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 Golf & Yacht Club from January 15 to 18. This event is part of the DP World Tour and marks the opening of the Race to Dubai International Swing. Among his competitors will be defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Invitational is a three-day pro-am event where professionals play alongside amateurs during the first two days. Sunday focuses exclusively on the pros competing for the title. McIlroy previously impressed with a win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am last year in a similar format.
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 high-profile events allow him to build early momentum and position himself well in the Race to Dubai while minimizing travel stress early in the season.
He will then turn his attention across the Atlantic to California, where he is confirmed for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. This tournament holds special significance as he triumphed there last year, marking the first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While McIlroy is expected to compete in major tournaments throughout the year, his full schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026