Rory McIlroy is set to start his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events in Dubai and an appearance in the US.
Rory McIlroy will begin his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, just like in his career Grand Slam year. 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 Start at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament in 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational held at Dubai Creek Resort from January 15 to 18. This event is part of the DP World Tour and serves as the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. McIlroy will face competitors including 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 professionals compete for the tournament win. McIlroy has already impressed in 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 will remain in the United Arab Emirates to compete at 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, position himself well in the Race to Dubai, and start the season with less travel stress than later in the year.
Following this, 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. This tournament is especially significant as he triumphed there last year, securing the first win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in the major tournaments and majors, his overall tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026