When and Where Does Rory McIlroy Start His 2026 Season?

When and Where Does Rory McIlroy Start His 2026 Season?
Rory McIlroy kicks off the 2026 golf season in Dubai. (Photo:Getty)

Rory McIlroy is about to kick off his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a start in America.

Rory McIlroy will begin his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, just like in his career Grand Slam year. Dubai will once again be the first major stage for the Northern Irishman as he chases more titles before heading to America in February.

Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational

McIlroy will play his first tournament of 2026 from January 15 to 18 at the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Resort. The event is part of the DP World Tour and also serves as the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. McIlroy will face, among others, defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals and amateurs play together over the first two days. Sunday is reserved exclusively for the pros competing for the tournament win. This format suited McIlroy well last year, especially when he won 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 for the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back high-level events give the Northern Irishman the chance to build early consistency and position himself well in the Race to Dubai while allowing a season start with less travel stress than later in the season.

Then his focus shifts across the Atlantic to California: McIlroy has already committed to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. That tournament has special significance, as he triumphed there last year to claim the first win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected McIlroy will play in the major tournaments and majors, his other tournament plans are still undefined.