Ryder Cup hero Rory McIlroy has confirmed his return to Dubai Creek Resort for the 2026 Dubai Invitational, taking place from January 15–18.
The five-time Major Champion will headline the second edition of the event after a history-making 2025 season, which saw him play a pivotal role in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory at Bethpage Black – their first triumph on U.S. soil in 13 years.
What a year for Rory!
It was a landmark year for the Northern Irishman, who became the first European to complete the career Grand Slamby adding the 2025 Masters title to his previous Major wins at the 2011 U.S. Open, 2012 and 2014 PGA Championships, and 2014 Open Championship.
McIlroy narrowly missed out on victory at the inaugural Dubai Invitational, finishing just one shot behind Tommy Fleetwood, who has also been confirmed for the 2026 edition. Currently sitting atop the 2025 Race to Dubai Rankings, McIlroy will begin his 2026 campaign with back-to-back appearances in the UAE, competing in both the Dubai Invitational and the Hero Dubai Desert Classic – a tournament he has won four times.
“I’m excited to be starting my year in Dubai,” said McIlroy. “The UAE is a place where I’ve enjoyed a lot of great weeks, and I’m sure this will be no different. Dubai Creek Resort was a fantastic host venue two years ago, and Abdulla and his team put on an incredible event. I came very close to winning that week, so I’m hoping 2026 will be another really good year for me — and to start strong in the Middle East would be the perfect way to get it under way.”
Tournament Host Abdulla Al Naboodah added:
“It is an honour to welcome career Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy back to the Dubai Creek Resort for the 2026 Dubai Invitational. His participation is a significant addition to our world-class field, and we look forward to delivering another exceptional week of competition and hospitality for players, partners, and spectators.”
The Dubai Invitational serves as the opening event on the Race to Dubai’s International Swing, featuring 60 DP World Tour professionals and 60 amateur golfers competing in a unique format that combines a three-day Pro-Amwith a final day for professionals only.
