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

The Creators Dubai Desert Classic (CDDC) returns for its second edition from 17-18 January, bringing together 16 of the biggest sporting content creators in social media to compete in their own version of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Expanding from a single-day to a weekend competition, the CDDC is designed to produce deeper, higher-quality storytelling that showcases both world-class golf and Dubai as a global destination.

The two-round strokeplay competition will take place at Emirates Golf Club. Round one tees off under the lights of the Faldo Course on the evening of 17 January, with the iconic Dubai Marina skyline providing a spectacular backdrop. Round two follows on 18 January on the legendary Majlis Course – the same layout where the world's best will compete for the famous Dallah Trophy just days later.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition, which generated 13.3 million views from a single hero video and contributed to an estimated 192 million impressions when paired with the wider Hero Dubai Desert Classic influencer programme, CDDC has established itself as the first, only, and largest creator-led golf event of its kind in the Middle East. By harnessing the power of social media, the Creators Dubai Desert Classic aims to turn the Hero Dubai Desert Classic into a digital content engine that connects sport, culture and lifestyle while expanding reach far beyond traditional audiences.

The 2026 lineup brings together creators from the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK and Europe, including Mac Boucher, Sara Winter, Jay Bark, ForeBrothers, Georgia Ball, Ellie Skoog, Temps, Max & Harry, Owen "Hoyzie", Caitlinn Mazza, Mei Brennan, Zaire Olde and Tyler Hamilton.

Mac Boucher said: " Being part of the inaugural Creators Dubai Desert Classic was genuinely special, and it’s exciting to see how intentionally the event is evolving. Bringing creators into a world-class tournament environment in a meaningful way is an important part of where golf is heading, and Dubai is clearly leading that shift. Coming back again this year was an easy decision.

Georgia Ball said: "The inaugural Creators Dubai Desert Classic showed what's possible when you bring creators together in the right environment with the right access. A week-long event takes that to another level – more time for authentic moments, better storytelling, and the chance to really showcase why Dubai is the perfect destination for golf and so much more."

Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said: "The Creators Dubai Desert Classic was created to address a clear shift in how golf is consumed globally. While traditional broadcast remains vital, the fastest audience growth is happening through digital storytellers who shape culture, lifestyle and sport in real time. The results from our inaugural edition exceeded expectations, we’re giving these creators the access, time and authentic moments they needed to connect with younger and non-traditional golf audiences worldwide – while showcasing Dubai as the ultimate destination for world-class sport and lifestyle."

The 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic takes place from 22-25 January 2026 at Emirates Golf Club, with defending champion Tyrrell Hatton leading a world-class field that includes reigning Masters Champion and four-time Hero Dubai Desert Classic winner Rory McIlroy, FedEx Cup Champion Tommy Fleetwood, 2022 champion Viktor Hovland, former World Number One Dustin Johnson, Open Champion Shane Lowry, global star Joaquín Niemann and World Golf Hall of Fame member Pádraig Harrington.

Off the course, fans can enjoy Tournament Town featuring live music, entertainment, the new Eat Street food village, and a whole roster of exciting children’s activities and workshops. General Admission remains free for everyone on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 January while weekend access for adults on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January is AED 100 with advance purchase or AED 125 at the door. Children under 17 receive free entry across all four days when registered and accompanied by an adult. For those seeking an elevated experience, upgraded hospitality includes The Social on Sixteen overlooking the iconic 16th hole from AED 695, and The Dallah Lounge with all day inclusive gourmet dining from AED 2,100. To secure your tickets or for more information, please visit www.dubaidesertclassic.com.

The CDDC highlight video will be released on January 20 across the Hero Dubai Desert Classic social channels – follow @dubaidcgolf on Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok to watch.