Dubai, December 22, 2025
News Summary
The 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic is set to take place from January 22-25 at the Emirates Golf Club, featuring golf legends and exciting new entrants. This prestigious tournament marks the season-opening Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai, with players like Ryan Fox and Pádraig Harrington joining a star-studded lineup that includes defending champion Tyrrell Hatton. The event promises thrilling golfing action and various entertainment options, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Exciting Announcements for the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic
Dubai is gearing up for an incredible sporting event as the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic prepares to showcase an impressive lineup of golf talent. Scheduled to take place at the Emirates Golf Club from January 22-25, this much-anticipated tournament is the season-opening Rolex Series event for the thrilling 2026 Race to Dubai.
New Faces Joining the Thrill
Golf fans have something to cheer about! Five exciting new players have been added to the tournament’s already strong field. Get ready to watch the likes of Ryan Fox, Pádraig Harrington, Nicolai Højgaard, Tom McKibbin, and Joaquín Niemann as they step into the spotlight. This announcement comes just as defending champion Tyrrell Hatton prepares to return and defend his title, adding to the electric atmosphere of the event.
A Star-Studded Field
It’s not just the newcomers who’ll be making waves! The tournament has confirmed participation from golf legends like Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Viktor Hovland, Shane Lowry, and Dustin Johnson. With such a stellar lineup, fans can expect some fireworks on the green.
Star Player Highlights
Let’s take a closer look at the new entrants. Ryan Fox is making his 10th appearance at this tournament. He is riding high after a breakout season in 2025, having clinched victories at both the Myrtle Beach Classic and the RBC Canadian Open. A two-time PGA Tour winner, Fox is a player to watch!
Then there’s Pádraig Harrington, the three-time major champion and a proud member of the World Golf Hall of Fame. Despite his age, Harrington is playing at a high level, having added two senior Major victories to his name in 2025.
Keep an eye on Nicolai Højgaard, who was part of Europe’s Ryder Cup-winning team in 2023 and already has a victory in the UAE at the DP World Tour Championship under his belt. Meanwhile, Tom McKibbin made a stunning entrance in his rookie season on the DP World Tour by winning the Porsche European Open in 2023 and finishing tied for sixth at the 2025 Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
Finally, Joaquín Niemann debuted at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic last year, finishing an impressive tied for fourth. With fresh momentum and growing confidence, he’ll be eager to make a splash in 2026.
Event Highlights and Sustainability Efforts
According to the Executive Tournament Director, the excitement for the upcoming 37th edition of this tournament is palpable, especially given the quality of the player field. But it’s not just about golf! The Hero Dubai Desert Classic offers a delightful blend of high-level golfing action paired with live entertainment, family activities, and exquisite dining experiences.
Sustainability is also at the forefront, as the event maintains its GEO certification for the third consecutive year, underscoring its commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
Get Your Tickets!
For those looking to catch the action up close, general admission for Thursday and Friday is free, making it accessible to many. Weekend access will cost just AED 100, so don’t miss out! For an elevated experience, consider the Social on Sixteen hospitality option, which provides stunning views of the 16th hole. Additionally, the Dallah Lounge is available for those seeking a premium hospitality experience with gourmet food and beverage options.
A Rich Tradition
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is known as the oldest professional golf event in the Middle East. With its rich history and the new buzzing energy surrounding the 2026 tournament, this year promises to be one for the books, combining sport, entertainment, and sustainability in remarkable ways.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Golf Stars Set for Dubai Desert Classic 2026
Jon Rahm Slips Out of Top 50 in Golf Rankings
Jon Rahm’s Fall from OWGR No. 1 to 52nd Place
Paul Waring Claims Historic Win at Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship
New York’s Top Golf Courses Unveiled for Enthusiasts
New York’s Golf Gems Shine Bright in 2025 Rankings
Tragic Shooting in Myrtle Beach Claims Life of Central Ohio Man
The Myrtle Beach Classic Set for May 2025 PGA Tour Event
Tiger Woods and President Trump Play Golf Amid Loss
Myrtle Beach and Conway Public Transit Expansion Plans
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
