GOLF – Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will return to Emirates Golf Club to headline the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, taking place from January 22 to 25 next year.
McIlroy’s participation comes as he celebrates a history-making year in which he completed the career Grand Slam at Augusta National.
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.
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.
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