UAE Golf in January 2026: A Luxury Sporting Moment for the Elite

Elite Tournaments: Where the World’s Best Compete

1. Dubai Invitational — January 15–18

Kicking off the competitive season, the Dubai Invitational returns to the lush fairways of Dubai Creek Resort Golf Club. This newly reinstated DP World Tour event draws elite talent including Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood for four days of thrilling competition and luxury hospitality. With a $2.75 million prize fund and a limited 60‑player field, this event reflects the UAE’s ambition to be a standout stop on the global golf calendar.

2. Hero Dubai Desert Classic — January 22–25

The Rolex Series event at Emirates Golf Club remains the jewel in the region’s golf crown. Now in its 37th edition, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic delivers prestige, world‑class competition, and elevated experiences. Players such as Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Viktor Hovland, and Dustin Johnson are slated to tee off for a share of a multi‑million‑dollar purse.

What sets this tournament apart for luxury audiences isn’t just the sport it’s the entertainment ecosystem surrounding it. The expanded Tournament Town offers live music, sustainability activations, culinary showcases with food trucks and chef pop‑ups, and upgraded hospitality lounges such as The Social on Sixteen and The Dallah Lounge.

Pro‑Am Prestige: Play, Network, Indulge

For aficionados who want to play as well as spectate, the UAE’s January calendar features several high‑end pro‑am experiences:

Abu Dhabi Pro‑Am — January 25–30

Limited to 25 teams, this exclusive event spans four rounds across Yas Links, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, and Saadiyat Beach, combined with five‑star accommodation and professional appearance fees.

Dubai Desert Pro‑Am — January 18–23

This bespoke golf adventure grants access to top regional courses including Trump Dubai, Dubai Hills, The Els Club, and Dubai Creek — paired with luxury hospitality and unforgettable fairway views.

XI GMP World Amateur Championship — January 12–17

For passionate amateurs seeking a competitive yet social environment, this match play championship includes exclusive events and networking opportunities in the heart of Dubai.

These curated pro‑am and amateur tournaments are designed for high‑net‑worth players who seek both elite competition and an immersive lifestyle experience from luxury hotel stays and fine dining to bespoke golf outings and networking dinners.

Beyond the Fairways: The Ultimate Luxury Golf Experience

The UAE’s appeal goes far beyond competition. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah offer some of the world’s most iconic courses from Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Fire and Earth courses to Yas Links and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, all set against stunning desert landscapes, glittering coastlines, and state‑of‑the‑art facilities.

Winter weather in the Emirates provides perfect playing conditions, with mild, sunny days ideal for both golf and leisure activities making January an irresistible time for wealthy globetrotters to combine sport with lifestyle.

Luxury stays and experiences to pair with your golf itinerary include:

1. Mina Seyahi Resorts official hotel partner of the Dubai Desert Classic, offering bespoke hospitality and exclusive access.
2. Park Hyatt Dubai and leading five‑star hotels perfect bases for tournament weekends, complete with spa retreats, Michelin‑level dining, and waterfront views.
3. VIP hospitality lounges and curated festival‑style zones at major tournament sites blending sport with gourmet cuisine, live entertainment, and premium networking.

A Destination Like No Other for the Discerning Golfer

For UAE audiences and luxury travelers alike, January 2026 represents the perfect blend of sport, sophistication, and social prestige. Whether you’re planning to watch the pros vie for glory, compete alongside them, or simply indulge in the rich lifestyle accompanying elite golf culture, the UAE is your ultimate winter golf destination.

With world‑class tournaments, premier pro‑am events, and unforgettable off‑course moments, there’s never been a better time to tee off in the Emirates.