38th Dubai Desert Classic set for January 21–24, 2027, at Emirates Golf Club.
Dubai: Rory McIlroy has confirmed his return to the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in 2027, where he will aim to extend his tournament record with a fifth Dallah Trophy at Emirates Golf Club from January 21 to 24.
The world No. 2 and career Grand Slam winner will arrive as a six-time major champion, having successfully defended his Masters title at Augusta National in April 2026.
The Northern Irishman became only the fourth golfer in history to win back-to-back Green Jackets, joining Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods. The victory also took his major championship tally to six, equalling Faldo’s career total.
McIlroy has enjoyed an outstanding 12 months on the international golf circuit. In addition to his Masters success, he played a key role in Europe’s Ryder Cup triumph at Bethpage Black, securing the team’s first victory on American soil since 2012.
He also captured his seventh Race to Dubai title, surpassing the legendary Seve Ballesteros. With the 2026 season approaching its conclusion, McIlroy remains in contention for an eighth title, which would see him equal Colin Montgomerie’s all-time record.
McIlroy targets fifth Dubai Desert Classic title
McIlroy holds the record for the most victories in the history of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, a tournament that has played a significant role in his professional career.
He made his first appearance at Emirates Golf Club in 2006 as a 16-year-old amateur before claiming his maiden professional title at the same venue in 2009, aged just 19.
He went on to lift the Dallah Trophy three more times, in 2015, 2023 and 2024, establishing himself as the tournament’s most successful player.
His confirmed participation in the 38th edition sets up another opportunity to add to his remarkable record at one of Dubai’s most prestigious sporting events.
McIlroy reflected on another memorable year in his career and spoke about his special connection with Dubai, where he celebrated his first professional victory.
“It’s been another incredible year, and to win the Masters again, this time with my parents there to share it with me, was very special. A memory I’ll cherish forever,” said McIlroy.
“I love coming to Dubai and the UAE, and I’ve always considered Dubai a second home. It’s where my professional career really started, and the Hero Dubai Desert Classic will always mean a lot to me. The support from the fans at Emirates Golf Club is always incredible, and I can’t think of a better place to start the year.”
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, expressed his excitement at welcoming the Northern Irish star back to the tournament.
“We never take Rory’s participation for granted, and to have him return as a back-to-back Masters champion is the perfect way to launch our 38th edition. Alongside the world-class golf, we’re giving fans more reasons than ever to join us, from Rooftop18 and an expanded Dallah Lounge to more entertainment, food and family activities in Tournament Town.”
Dubai Desert Classic 2027 tickets: Prices and admission details
Tickets for the 2027 Hero Dubai Desert Classic are now available, with limited-time early bird offers across several admission and hospitality categories.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy free general admission on Thursday, January 21, and Friday, January 22, provided they register for tickets in advance.
Weekend admission prices are as follows:
- Early bird tickets: AED 85
- Advance tickets before the event: AED 110
- Tickets purchased on the day: AED 135
Children aged 17 and under, as well as companions and carers, will receive complimentary admission throughout the four-day event.
Rooftop18 brings a new hospitality experience
A major addition to the 2027 tournament is Rooftop18, a new hospitality venue replacing The Social on Sixteen.
Operating throughout all four tournament days, Rooftop18 will offer spectators panoramic views of the 18th, ninth and 16th greens, the 17th tee and Dubai’s skyline.
Guests can enjoy a five-hour brunch experience featuring a premium casual buffet and unlimited house beverages.
Rooftop18 ticket prices
| Day | Early bird | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | AED 595 | AED 695 |
| Friday | AED 795 | AED 895 |
| Saturday | AED 895 | AED 995 |
| Sunday | AED 895 | AED 995 |
Expanded Dallah Lounge and premium hospitality
The tournament’s signature Dallah Lounge will return with an upgraded layout and increased capacity, offering guests enhanced views of the ninth and 18th greens.
The premium hospitality experience is designed for spectators seeking a more exclusive setting while watching some of the world’s leading golfers compete.
Early bird Dallah Lounge ticket prices start at:
- Thursday: AED 1,980
- Friday: AED 2,800
- Saturday and Sunday: AED 3,050 per day
- Season ticket: AED 10,500
Clubhouse Hospitality packages will also be available, with prices starting from AED 500.
Tournament Town and Eat Street return with family entertainment
Beyond the action on the golf course, Tournament Town will once again provide a lively entertainment destination for spectators of all ages.
Visitors can look forward to live music, family-friendly attractions and interactive activities throughout the tournament, including the popular Family Friday programme.
Eat Street, which made its debut in 2026, will also return with an expanded range of international cuisines and casual dining options.
Organisers are expected to announce additional details about entertainment programmes and participating food vendors closer to the event.
Health and wellness activities for players and spectators
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic will continue its focus on wellbeing, with the Mental Fitness & Recovery Zone returning for a fourth consecutive year.
The dedicated facility will provide players and their support teams with a space to rest, recover and manage their physical and mental wellbeing during the competition.
Spectators will also have opportunities to participate in wellness initiatives, including the Step FORE It Challenge, health screenings and other activities to be announced ahead of the tournament.
Sustainability takes centre stage at Dubai Desert Classic 2027
Sustainability will remain a key priority for the tournament, with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) expanding its involvement as presenting partner of the ‘Go for the Green’ initiative.
EGA has supported the Hero Dubai Desert Classic since its inaugural edition in 1989, making it one of the tournament’s longest-standing partners.
The event has also established itself as a leader in sustainable golf tournament operations.
It became the first golf tournament in the Middle East, as well as the first DP World Tour Rolex Series event, to achieve GEO Certification, maintaining the recognition for four consecutive years.
For the 2027 edition, organisers will introduce the winning concept from the Green Incubator Challenge, developed in partnership with Deloitte.
Competition winner Notpla will supply innovative seaweed-based packaging for food and beverage outlets throughout the tournament venue, supporting efforts to reduce the event’s environmental impact.
Additional sustainability initiatives planned for the 2027 tournament include the use of eco-friendly signage, measures to minimise food waste and mangrove planting activities.
Spectators are also being encouraged to travel by public transport to reduce the event’s environmental footprint. Al Fardan Exchange Metro Station is conveniently located at the entrance to Emirates Golf Club, providing easy access to the venue.
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic, the Middle East’s oldest professional golf tournament, remains one of the flagship Rolex Series events on the DP World Tour.
Golf fans can register for free admission on Thursday and Friday, book weekend tickets or explore premium hospitality packages through the tournament’s official website.
For tickets, registration and the latest event updates, visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com.
