Rory McIlroy is set to begin his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events in Dubai and a start in America.
Rory McIlroy is opening his 2026 golf year in the United Arab Emirates, similar to his career Grand Slam year. Dubai once again becomes the first major stage for the Northern Irishman on his hunt for more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational
His first tournament in 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational at the Dubai Creek Resort from January 15 to 18. The event is part of the DP World Tour and serves as the opening tournament 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 victory, a format where McIlroy already impressed last year, notably with his win at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Springboard for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy remains in the UAE for the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back high-class events allow the Northern Irishman to build consistency early and secure an optimal position in the Race to Dubai, enabling a season start with less travel stress than later in the year.
His focus then 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 holds special significance as he triumphed there last year, securing his first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it’s expected that McIlroy will participate in major tournaments and majors, his further tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026