For the fifth consecutive year, the top-ranked PGA TOUR University player at the conclusion of the autumn college golf season in the United States will earn a coveted exemption into the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, which will be staged at Emirates Golf Club from 22–25 January 2026.
Previous PGA TOUR University stars who have teed it up at the Rolex Series event include North Carolina’s David Ford, Stanford’s Michael Thorbjornsen, Texas Tech’s Ludvig Åberg and Texas A&M’s Sam Bennett. Ford (T72/2025), Thorbjornsen (T11/2024) and Åberg (T70/2023) all made the cut at Emirates Golf Club, with Åberg’s performance coming just months before he claimed victories at the Omega European Masters and the RSM Classic and earned a Ryder Cup captain’s pick during his debut season as a professional.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said:
“Our team is proud to uphold the tradition of welcoming elite amateurs to compete in a world-class event at a pivotal moment in their careers. Last year, we watched David Ford tee off alongside four-time champion Rory McIlroy on the Majlis Course, joining a stellar field of international talent. This year’s top-ranked PGA TOUR University player will have the same opportunity to compete at the highest level with Rory returning once again amongst a stellar field.”
Among the leading players in the PGA TOUR University Class of 2026 are Ben James (Virginia), Michael La Sasso (Ole Miss), Christiaan Maas (Texas), Jase Summy (Oklahoma) and Tommy Morrison (Texas). The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is an eligible tournament in the PGA TOUR University Ranking and will be added to the player’s record as he competes for PGA TOUR University performance benefits.
Brendan von Doehren, Executive Director of PGA TOUR University, said: “PGA TOUR University’s partnership with the Hero Dubai Desert Classic has played an integral role in preparing college golf’s top players for professional golf. We’re thankful for five years of support from Simon and his team and look forward to providing another opportunity to one of the game’s most deserving and promising players.”
Now entering its 37th edition, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic remains the longest-running professional golf tournament in the Middle East and a flagship Rolex Series event on the DP World Tour. It continues to combine world-class golf with sustainability initiatives and an unforgettable fan experience.
Away from the competition, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic will once again deliver a festival atmosphere for all ages. Tournament Town will return as the entertainment hub, offering live music, family activities, food trucks, arts and crafts, and interactive experiences. With wellness zones and kids’ activations, it promises the perfect day out for families and friends.
Early bird tickets are now available. General admission remains free on Thursday and Friday, with weekend entry starting from just AED 75 (AED 100 pre-event, AED 125 on the day). Children aged 17 and under will enjoy free entry throughout the week.
Premium hospitality options include the Dallah Lounge, located between the 9th and 18th greens, which offers gourmet dining, beverages and rooftop skyline views. Prices start at AED 1,890 on Thursday, rising to AED 2,655 (Friday), AED 2,880 (Saturday) and AED 2,970 (Sunday), with a season pass available for AED 9,875.
Returning for 2026 is The Social on Sixteen, overlooking the iconic par-3 16th hole. Now double the size, it features four hours of free-flowing beverages, premium casual dining and exceptional course views. Early bird tickets are priced at AED 625 for Friday and AED 710 for Saturday and Sunday.
For ticket purchases and the latest event updates, visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com.
