The 2026 Dubai Invitational promises to be one of the most exciting golf tournaments of the year, set against the backdrop of Dubai Creek Resort. With a substantial $2.75 million prize pool, this event will blend elite professional competition with a unique Pro-Am format, drawing both local and international spectators. As Diwali celebrations light up the UAE, golf fans are also anticipating a thrilling showdown from January 15–18, 2026.
Headlining the event are two Ryder Cup teammates-turned-rivals: Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood. Their rivalry, which has captured the attention of golf enthusiasts, will add a fresh layer of drama to the tournament. Both players, fresh off remarkable seasons, will look to make their mark in Dubai and begin the DP World Tour’s 2026 International Swing with a victory.
McIlroy’s Historic Year
Rory McIlroy’s 2025 season will be remembered for his historic achievement: becoming the first European golfer to complete a career Grand Slam. His victory at the Masters at Augusta solidified his place in golfing history, adding to his previous triumphs at the U.S. Open (2011), PGA Championship (2012, 2014), and The Open (2014). Alongside this, McIlroy played a pivotal role in Europe’s historic Ryder Cup victory at Bethpage Black, their first win on American soil in 13 years.
Currently ranked World No. 2, McIlroy enters 2026 as the leader of the Race to Dubai standings. He will start the year with back-to-back tournaments in the UAE, beginning with the Dubai Invitational and followed by the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, an event he has won four times.
“I’m excited to be starting my year in Dubai,” McIlroy said. “The UAE is a place where I’ve enjoyed a lot of great weeks, and I’m sure this will be no different.”
Tournament host Abdulla Al Naboodah expressed excitement about McIlroy’s participation, calling it “an honour” to welcome the five-time Major champion back to Dubai Creek Resort. His presence will undoubtedly raise the stakes and further elevate the quality of competition.
Fleetwood’s Breakthrough
Tommy Fleetwood, meanwhile, enjoyed a career-defining year in 2025. His first PGA Tour victory at the Tour Championship saw him seal the FedEx Cup with a commanding 18-under finish, solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s most consistent players. Fleetwood also claimed the DP World India Championship title, celebrating his success with his young son, Frankie.
As McIlroy’s closest rival in Europe, Fleetwood is eager to continue his momentum into 2026. Both players will participate in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links, which will serve as a precursor to the Dubai Invitational. Following this, the focus will shift to the Dubai Invitational, where 60 DP World Tour professionals and 60 amateurs will compete in a unique format combining world-class golf with local hospitality.
Tournament Format and Ticketing
The Dubai Invitational will feature a three-day Pro-Am event, with the final day reserved for the professionals. This format offers fans a unique opportunity to see top players interact with amateurs while experiencing the best of Dubai’s hospitality and community spirit. General admission tickets for the event are free, and fans can register online at dpworldtour.com.
The tournament will provide an exciting spectacle, marking the beginning of the DP World Tour’s International Swing. With McIlroy and Fleetwood leading the charge, golf fans can expect a thrilling start to 2026 in Dubai.
