Rory McIlroy is about to start his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events in Dubai followed by a tournament 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 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 Debut at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament of 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational at the Dubai Creek Resort from January 15 to 18. This event is part of the DP World Tour and also serves as the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. Among others, McIlroy will face defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals play alongside amateurs on the first two days, with only the pros competing for the title on Sunday. McIlroy impressed in a similar format last year, notably winning the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Dubai as a Launchpad for a Long Season
After the Dubai Invitational, McIlroy will stay in the UAE to compete at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. Having two prestigious events in quick succession allows the Northern Irishman to build consistency early, secure a strong position in the Race to Dubai, and start the season with less travel stress than later in the year.
His focus then shifts across the Atlantic to California for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15, where he has already committed to participate. This tournament holds special significance since McIlroy triumphed there last year, earning his first victory of his historic career Grand Slam season. While he is expected to compete in the major tournaments and key events throughout the year, his full tournament schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026