Anticipation is building in Dubai as the 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic prepares to tee off at Emirates Golf Club from 22nd to 25th January. This landmark tournament marks the first Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai season and is set to showcase one of its strongest fields to date.
Leading the line-up is record four-time champion Rory McIlroy, returning exactly 20 years after his debut at the event. McIlroy aims to make history with a fifth Dallah Trophy, facing competition from a world-class line-up that includes defending champion Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, Viktor Hovland, Dustin Johnson, Nicolai Højgaard, Ryan Fox, and Tom McKibbin.
Adding prestige to the tournament, former world number one and European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald enters the field, while UAE golfer Ahmad Skaik will compete as a professional for the first time, highlighting the tournament’s continued support for regional talent.
Final preparations at the iconic Majlis Course are in full swing. The Emirates Golf Club’s agronomy team has been working tirelessly to deliver championship conditions befitting one of the world’s most prestigious tournaments. Officials have confirmed that the course is in excellent condition after months of dedicated work.
Executive Tournament Director Simon Corkill emphasized the spirit of collaboration by stating that the partnership between tournament organisers and course staff has ensured the event is ready to welcome both players and fans for what promises to be a memorable edition.
Besides the world-class golf, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic will deliver a festival-style experience, with Tournament Town featuring family activities, live entertainment, and expanded food and hospitality options throughout the week.
General admission will be free on 22nd and 23rd January, with paid access on the 24th and 25th January. The event continues to underline Dubai’s status as a leading global destination for world-class sporting events.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
