Creators Dubai Desert Classic returns as the Middle East’s biggest creator-led golf event

The Creators Dubai Desert Classic (CDDC) is set to return for its second edition from January 17 to 18, bringing together 16 leading sports content creators from around the world. The event is the Middle East’s largest creator-led golf competition and runs alongside the famous Hero Dubai Desert Classic.

This year, the CDDC expands from a one-day event to a full weekend, aiming to create richer digital content and storytelling that highlights both top-level golf and Dubai as a global destination.

The two-round strokeplay tournament will be held at Emirates Golf Club. The opening round will take place on the evening of January 17 at the Faldo Course under floodlights, with the Dubai Marina skyline as the backdrop. The final round will be played on January 18 on the Majlis Course, which will later host the world’s top professionals competing for the Dallah Trophy.

Following the success of its debut edition, which achieved millions of online views and impressions, the CDDC has become the first and largest event of its kind in the region. Organisers say the goal is to connect golf with digital culture and lifestyle, reaching younger and non-traditional audiences through social media.

The 2026 lineup includes creators from the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK and Europe, such as Mac Boucher, Georgia Ball, Sara Winter, Jay Bark, ForeBrothers, Ellie Skoog, Owen “Hoyzie”, Caitlinn Mazza and others.

Mac Boucher said returning to the event was an easy decision, noting that Dubai is leading the way in combining world-class golf with creator-driven content. Georgia Ball added that the longer format allows for more authentic moments and better storytelling.

Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said the event reflects a global shift in how golf is consumed. “Digital creators are playing a major role in shaping how new audiences engage with the sport,” he said.

The 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic will be held from January 22 to 25, 2026, at Emirates Golf Club, featuring a world-class field led by defending champion Tyrrell Hatton, alongside Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Viktor Hovland, Dustin Johnson, Shane Lowry, Joaquín Niemann and Pádraig Harrington.

Fans attending the main tournament can also enjoy live music, entertainment, food options at the Eat Street village, and activities for children. General admission is free on January 22 and 23, while weekend tickets are priced from AED 100. Children under 17 can enter free when accompanied by an adult.

The Creators Dubai Desert Classic highlight video will be released on January 20 across the Hero Dubai Desert Classic social media platforms.