Middle East’s largest creator-led golf event returns to Dubai

The Creators Dubai Desert Classic (CDDC) returns for its second edition from January 17-18, 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 January 17, with the iconic Dubai Marina skyline providing a spectacular backdrop.

Round two follows on January 18 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 event 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.

"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," said Mac Boucher.

"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," added Georgia Ball.

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," he added.

The 37th Hero Dubai Desert Classic takes place from January 22-25 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, January 22, and Friday, January 23, while weekend access for adults on Saturday, January 24, and Sunday, January 25 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.

Those seeking an elevated experience can opt for upgraded hospitality packages.