DUBAI: As the world’s best golfers begin arriving at Emirates Golf Club ahead of the first Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai season, taking place at Majlis Course from Jan. 22-25, the stage is set for the 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
Record four-time champion Rory McIlroy returns to the “Major of the Middle East” where he debuted as a fresh-faced 16-year-old in 2006, marking the 20th anniversary of his first appearance. The reigning Masters champion and five-time Major winner will chase a historic fifth Dallah Trophy as part of a stellar field including defending champion Tyrrell Hatton, former world No. 1 Dustin Johnson, FedEx Cup Champion Tommy Fleetwood, 2019 Open Champion Shane Lowry, 2022 HDDC champion Viktor Hovland, Rolex Series winner Nicolai Hojgaard, PGA Tour victor Ryan Fox and rising star Tom McKibbin.
Former world No. 1 and European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald also returns to Dubai, while UAE national golfer Ahmad Skaik joins the field as a professional for the first time, highlighting the tournament’s continued commitment to supporting regional talent.
Matthew Perry, course superintendent at Emirates Golf Club, oversees a team of more than 100 that ensures the golf course lives up to its reputation as one of the best in world golf.
