Your insider guide to experiencing the “Major of the Middle East” in style!

Dubai, UAE - 16 December –   The countdown is officially on with 37 days until the 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic returns to Emirates Golf Club from 22–25 January 2026. This flagship Rolex Series event will offer more than ever before: think legendary golf, live entertainment, festival vibes, family fun, and great food, all enjoyed under Dubai’s signature winter sunshine. Whether you’re a die‑hard golf fan, a foodie, or seeking the perfect day out with family and friends, here’s what’s new at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic this January.

With a star line-up in pursuit of new records, this year’s player field sees exciting updates as Masters champion Rory McIlroy returns in quest of a record fifth Dallah Trophy and marks 20 years competing. Joining him is Ryder Cup star and defending champion Tyrrell Hatton, alongside FedEx Cup Champion and World Number Three Tommy Fleetwood, Major champions Dustin Johnson and Shane Lowry and Ryder Cup star Viktor Hovland – winner of the 2022 Hero Dubai Desert Classic – with future player announcements still to come.  

2026 brings fresh fun for the whole family as the kids’ zone of Tournament Town, the buzzing heart of Hero Dubai Desert Classic, is now double the size. On Family Friday, teenage sensation DJ Julie will be on the decks at Family Beatz. Throughout the weekend, families can expect exciting hands-on activities, including new sustainability workshops such as the Mosaic Workshop and Glo & Go Workshop, as well as seed-bomb making, soil painting, DIY workshops and face-painting with a touch of sparkle from the Glitter Box. Little ones can also look forward to roaming performers, colourful parades and spectacular juggling acts. Plus, the upgraded Kids Zone by Double Decker features a 2-in-1 bungee trampoline, expanded soft play, more carnival games, a larger VR corner and Big Red Slide.  

For adults eager to soak up the festival vibe, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic unveils an all‑new musical line‑up at Tournament Town, igniting the evenings from 5:30pm until late. Expect a dynamic mix of live bands, talented singers, and a high‑energy DJ set. Local favourites Skyline and Sweet Chilli Jam Band will deliver acoustic performances packed with crowd‑pleasing covers, before DJ Rainier takes over to keep the party alive with the biggest commercial hits.

This year, a brand-new dedicated foodie location Eat Street makes its debut as a dynamic culinary showcase, bringing together Dubai’s most celebrated homegrown vendors alongside international favourites. Designed as a haven for casual food lovers, the new street is lined with delicious and one-of-a-kind food trucks, complemented by a welcoming seating area and a giant LED screen streaming the live tournament broadcast, so every bite comes with the thrill of the game. It features an array of flavours some of which include the bold smash burgers from viral sensation MrBeast Burger, the cult favourite, Salt burgers beloved across the UAE, and Topgolf’s signature crowd pleasers. Savour premium Nashville-style fried chicken with a bold Korean twist with Hangry Joes Hot Chicken & Wings, enjoy shawarma classics from Yalla Mahalla, or taste the freshest, tastiest pho at Vietnamese Foodies.

For a new swing on the best brunch in town, and a vibrant social afternoon with friends, The Social on Sixteen is back bigger than ever with an even better view of the iconic 16th hole. Guests can enjoy four hours of unlimited free‑flowing drinks and a selection of premium casual dining, at one of the most entertaining vantage points on the course. Enjoy Hero Dubai Desert Classic in style with tickets selling fast and priced at AED 695 for Friday, and AED 790 for Saturday and Sunday.

Alongside all the new additions, several signature elements that define the Hero Dubai Desert Classic are back for 2026. Feel the energy from the public viewing platforms, catch the winning putt on Championship Sunday, and enjoy the rare chance to see Major champions compete up close on the iconic Majlis Course.

Limited exclusive Dallah Lounge hospitality packages are available on Thursday and Friday only, currently starting from AED 2,100 for prime views over the 9th and 18th hole, plus unlimited drinks, premium dining and live cooking stations. 

General Admission remains free for everyone on Thursday, 22 and Friday, 23 January. Weekend access for adults on Saturday, 24 and Sunday, 25 January is AED 100 with advance purchase (AED 125 at the door), while children under 17 are free on all days when registered and accompanied by an adult. With last year’s event reaching capacity across all ticket types, families are encouraged to register early to secure their spots.

To purchase your tickets, and for more information on the latest event updates, please visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com or download the Hero Dubai Desert Classic app, available for both Android and Apple.