World No. 1 Rory McIlroy confirms his return to Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club in UAE

By GolfDigestME.com
World No. 1 Rory McIlroy wil once again be heading to Dubai in the New Year for the 35th edition of the Dubai Desert Classic.

The two-time champion will be aiming for another crown at Emirates Golf Club, having just missed out to Viktor Hovland last year.

McIlroy, a four-time Major champion is the first player to be confirmed and will be among the top stars swinging into action when the Rolex Series event takes place in the UAE from January 26-29.

The Northern Irishman, who won the title in 2009 and 2015, said: “I always look forward to playing the Dubai Desert Classic, having won the tournament twice in my career, and Majlis is a golf course that I love to play.

“Lifting the Dallah trophy for a third time is something I would like to achieve.”

Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Dubai Desert Classic, said: “Since the first ball teed off more than three decades ago in 1989, the Dubai Desert Classic has gone from strength to strength, attracting a wide array of top golfers from around the world, so to have Rory McIlroy confirm his participation exemplifies how highly regarded the tournament is.

“He is one of the greatest names not just in golf but also in sport in general and we are delighted that he will be returning to Emirates Golf Club again. This is a fantastic opportunity for fans to see the world number one in action on the Majlis course, a place he knows very well, in what will be another important year for him.

“With more household names and up-and-coming players set to join over the coming weeks, fans can be assured of a stellar playing field for January 2023.”

Combining world-class golf with an array of family-friendly entertainment, spectators can look forward to a wider variety of options off the course than ever before with something for every fan, and every age, to enjoy.

Among the new additions to next year’s entertainment is a dedicated Kids’ Day on Friday and a Picnic Package on Saturday.

General admission tickets are free, with Dallah Lounge hospitality tickets also available.

Corkill added: “The Dubai Desert Classic would not be the same without the off-course entertainment and we have carefully curated the event schedule to ensure spectators have many activity options to enjoy. Something for all the family.”

Organisers are also encouraging fans to use the Metro service to travel to and from the tournament, with Al Khail station located directly outside the club’s main entrance.