Dubai always a special place for me, says Rory McIlroy as he returns to defend DP World Tour Championship

Dubai: Rory McIlroy will return to Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 13-16 to defend his DP World Tour Championship title at the season-ending Rolex Series event.

“Dubai has always been a special place for me,” said McIlroy. “Winning both the DP World Tour Championship and the Race to Dubai last year was an incredible way to finish the season. To equal Seve’s record made it even more special. I’ve played some great golf this year and I’m looking forward to finishing strong again in front of the fans at Jumeirah Golf Estates.”

The five-time Major Champion delivered a masterclass in control and shot-making to claim his third DP World Tour Championship victory in 2024, sealing a record-equalling sixth Race to Dubai title to sit alongside the late, great Seve Ballesteros and further cementing his status as one of the most decorated players in Tour history.

The 36-year-old Northern Irishman has moved into joint second place for the most Race to Dubai victories and now sits two behind Colin Montgomerie, as he bids to add another European No 1 crown to his already impressive career.

He will spend two weeks in the UAE following confirmation that he will also tee it up at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship - the first event of the DP World Tour Play-Offs - qualifying for both season-ending events thanks to that thrilling victory at Augusta National, a fourth-place finish at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, a tied runner up finish at the Genesis Scottish Open, and tied seventh at The 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

McIlroy became the first European to win the career grand slam earlier this year when he added a Green Jacket to his four previous Major victories at the 2011 U.S. Open, the US PGA Championship in 2012 and 2014 and The Open in 2014. He will look to clinch a fourth successive Race to Dubai title when he returns to the Middle East in November and a seventh Harry Vardon Trophy in total.

To celebrate 100 days to go, Whoop - an Official Supplier of the DP World Tour Championship - is offering a free one-month membership trial to each fan who purchases a ticket.

The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is the first event of the DP World Tour’s end of season showpiece, leading straight into the DP World Tour Championship where the Race to Dubai champion will be crowned.

The top 70 available players at the conclusion of the Back 9 events will gather in Abu Dhabi for the fourth Rolex Series event of the year, with the top 50 teeing it up at the DP World Tour Championship as the season comes to a close in Dubai.

Following record weekend crowds last year, free general admission tickets for Thursday and Friday are now available at dpwtc.com.