Rory McIlroy is about to start his 2026 golf season. Two DP World Tour events and a start in America will mark his season opener.
Rory McIlroy begins his 2026 season just like in his career Grand Slam year, in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai will once again be the first big stage for the Northern Irishman in his quest for more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Opening at the Dubai Invitational
Rory McIlroy will play his first tournament of 2026 from January 15 to 18 at the Dubai Invitational held 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 competitors including defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals play alongside amateurs in the first two days. On Sunday, only the professionals compete for the tournament victory. This format suited McIlroy well 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 stay in the UAE to compete in 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 position himself well in the Race to Dubai while reducing travel stress compared to later in the season.
Afterwards, his focus turns across the Atlantic to California: McIlroy has already committed to the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15. This event holds special significance 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 major tournaments and the majors, his full tournament schedule beyond these is still undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026