Staff WriterTyrrell Hatton will return to Emirates Golf Club this January with unfinished business and a Dallah trophy to defend. The Ryder Cup hero and eight-time DP World Tour winner has confirmed his place in the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, taking place from January 22–25, where he’ll aim to replicate the magic that saw him lift the trophy earlier this year.
It will be Hatton’s 11th appearance at the tournament, and he’ll be in good company. Reigning Masters Champion and career Grand Slam winner Rory McIlroy has already been announced in the field for the first Rolex Series event of the 2026 Race to Dubai.
Hatton’s return comes off the back of a season that can only be described as full throttle. At Bethpage Black, he secured the half point that clinched Europe’s Ryder Cup victory, teaming up with McIlroy to silence a hostile American crowd and deliver Europe’s first away win since 2012.
Earlier in the year, his Hero Dubai Desert Classic triumph paved the way for a tied-fourth finish at the U.S. Open and top-20 results at both The Masters and The 153rd Open Championship, earning him a fourth Ryder Cup cap.
The Englishman’s victory in Dubai was vintage Hatton—four rounds in the 60s, gritty as ever, and a one-stroke win that brought him his second Rolex Series title. He’s eager to relive that week.
“I’m delighted to be heading back to Emirates Golf Club to defend my title. It’s a golf course that has really suited my game over the years, and the week at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic back in January was incredibly special for me,” said Hatton.
“It’s always good to go back to a place where you’ve won before, and I’m really excited to have a chance to contend for the title again to follow on from what has been a pretty incredible year.”
A Festival of Golf and More
Of course, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic isn’t just about birdies and backswings. Away from the fairways, Tournament Town will once again act as the beating heart of the event.
Expect live entertainment, family activities, food trucks, arts and crafts, and enough wellness and interactive experiences to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re a golf fanatic or tagging along for the falafel wraps and music, the atmosphere will be electric.
Early bird tickets are already flying out the door. General admission is free on Thursday and Friday, with weekend tickets starting at AED 75 during the early bird window (AED 100 pre-event, AED 125 on the day). Kids aged 17 and under go free across all four days.
Hospitality with a View
For those who like their golf with a side of luxury, The Dallah Lounge and The Social on Sixteen return with premium offerings. The Dallah Lounge—positioned between the 9th and 18th greens—offers rooftop views of Dubai’s skyline, all-day gourmet dining, and drinks from AED 1,890.
Meanwhile, The Social on Sixteen will double in size after its successful debut in 2025. Overlooking the iconic 16th hole, it offers four hours of free-flowing beverages, premium casual dining, and prime viewing of the action, with early bird tickets starting at AED 625.
Sustainability at the Fore
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is not just the oldest professional golf tournament in the Middle East—now entering its 37th edition—it’s also a leader in sustainable event practices.
Already GEO-certified for the third consecutive year, the 2026 edition will step up its eco credentials with improved transport options, encouraging spectators to arrive via metro or taxi to reduce emissions.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director, summed it up best:
“Reflecting the tournament’s stature as one of the premier events on the global golfing calendar, we are thrilled that Tyrrell has chosen to return to defend his Hero Dubai Desert Classic title. He joins the growing line-up of Ryder Cup stars, Masters champions, and dynamic emerging talents.
“As the countdown advances, we have expanded our signature premium experiences both on and off the course to complement the outstanding golf, ensuring next year’s tournament will be truly exceptional.”
With Tyrrell Hatton back to defend his crown, Rory McIlroy in the mix, and Dubai serving up its trademark spectacle, the 2026 Hero Dubai Desert Classic is shaping up to be one for the ages.
🎟 Tickets and info: www.dubaidesertclassic.com
