Rory McIlroy is about to start his 2026 golf season with two DP World Tour events and a tournament in the United States.
Rory McIlroy will begin his 2026 season in the United Arab Emirates, just like during his career Grand Slam year. Dubai will once again be the stage for the Northern Irishman as he hunts for more titles before heading to America in February.
Rory McIlroy’s Start at the Dubai Invitational
McIlroy’s first tournament of 2026 will be the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club from January 15 to 18. The event is part of the DP World Tour and serves as the opening event of the Race to Dubai International Swing. Among his competitors is defending champion Tommy Fleetwood. The Dubai Invitational is a three-day Pro-Am event where professionals play alongside amateurs on the first two days. Sunday focuses exclusively on the pros competing for the tournament victory, a format where McIlroy impressed last year, especially with his win 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 UAE to compete in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic from January 22 to 25. The back-to-back high-profile events allow him to build early momentum and position himself well in the Race to Dubai, starting the season with less travel stress than later in the year.
Following his Middle East start, McIlroy will turn his attention to California for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from February 12 to 15, where he is already confirmed to compete. This tournament holds special significance as he triumphed there last year, securing his first win of his historic career Grand Slam season. While it is expected that McIlroy will participate in major tournaments and big events, the rest of his schedule remains undefined.
Rory’s first hole of his 2026 Tour season 👌 pic.twitter.com/2zRlXT2O6M
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 8, 2026