As he celebrates a history-making year in which he completed the career Grand Slam at Augusta National, Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will return to Emirates Golf Club to headline the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, taking place from 22–25 January 2026.
The five-time Major winner, who currently leads the Race to Dubai Rankings and will be part of Europe’s Ryder Cup defence next week, will arrive in Dubai chasing a record fifth Dallah Trophy at the tournament widely regarded as the ‘Major of the Middle East’. The 2026 edition promises a whole host of new and exciting additions to treat fans of all ages to an unforgettable day out, reinforcing the event’s status as one of the premier occasions on the UAE’s sporting and social calendar.
McIlroy’s return to Emirates Golf Club in 2026 will mark 20 years since his first appearance in the tournament as an amateur back in 2006. He went on to claim his maiden Hero Dubai Desert Classic title as a 19-year-old in 2009 – his first professional victory – before adding further wins in 2015, 2023, and 2024. That dramatic comeback success in 2024 sealed a record fourth title and underlined his enduring connection with the tournament and its fans.
“It’s been a very special year for me, and I’m excited about what’s still to come,” said the World Number Two. “The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has always been one of my favourite tournaments, and I’m really looking forward to returning to Emirates Golf Club in January. I consider Dubai a second home – the support there is always incredible, and it’s the perfect place to start the year.”
Away from the world-class golfing action, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic will once again deliver an unmatched festival atmosphere. Tournament Town will be the hub of off-course excitement, packed with live entertainment, family activities, food trucks, arts and crafts, and interactive experiences for all ages. From music and performances to wellness experiences and kids’ activations, it’s the perfect day out for families and friends alike.
Early bird tickets are now available across most categories, giving fans the chance to secure the best prices for a limited time. General admission remains free on Thursday and Friday, with weekend access available from just AED 75 during the early bird window (AED 100 pre-event, AED 125 on the day). Children aged 17 and under can attend free of charge across all four days.
Hospitality packages are also on sale with early bird pricing in place for the Dallah Lounge and The Social on Sixteen. The Dallah Lounge provides the ultimate premium experience, nestled between the 9th and 18th greens with all-day gourmet food, beverages and exclusive rooftop views of Dubai’s skyline. Prices start at AED 1,890 on Thursday, rising to AED 2,655 on Friday, AED 2,880 on Saturday and AED 2,970 on Sunday, with a season ticket available for AED 9,875.
Returning after a hugely successful debut in 2025, The Social on Sixteen will once again overlook the iconic 16th hole, and this year will be double in size! Guests can enjoy four hours of free-flowing beverages, premium casual dining and unbeatable views of the action. Early bird tickets are now available for AED 625 for Friday and AED 710 for Saturday and Sunday.
Already GEO-certified for the third consecutive year, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic continues to set the benchmark for sustainable golf events. In 2026, organisers will also build on the tournament’s strong commitment to health, wellness and mental fitness. The dedicated Mental Fitness Zone, pioneered at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and now returning for its third year, will once again offer players and entourage a quiet space to recharge during a busy tournament week.
In line with its sustainability goals, the 2026 tournament will prioritise greener transport options for spectators. With the metro on the doorstep and convenient taxi links, fans can enjoy a smooth and eco-friendly journey to Emirates Golf Club.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, added: “Rory’s return is the perfect way to launch our 2026 event. We never take his participation for granted, and to welcome him back as the Masters Champion after perhaps the finest season of an already sensational career only reinforces the prestige of this tournament. With the introduction of affordable weekend tickets, our strengthened sustainability commitments, and a greater focus on wellness, family experiences and entertainment in Tournament Town, we’re making the Hero Dubai Desert Classic not only one of the great tournaments on the DP World Tour, but also an unmissable highlight of Dubai’s sporting and social calendar.”
Now entering its 37th edition, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic remains the oldest professional golf event in the Middle East and a flagship Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour, combining world-class sport with sustainability leadership and unforgettable fan experiences.
