2026 Junior Dubai Desert Classic: Register Now

The stage is set for future golfing stars as registrations open for the 2026 Junior Dubai Desert Classic (JDDC), happening at Emirates Golf Club from January 16–18, 2026.

Now in its fourth edition and with World Amateur Golf Ranking® (WAGR®) status for the second year, the JDDC is becoming a premier junior event on both regional and international circuits.

Open to boys and girls aged 18 and under with a handicap of 14.4 or lower, the tournament offers young golfers from the UAE and beyond a professional tour experience on two of Dubai’s most renowned courses.

A Weekend of Elite Golf

Friday (Jan 16): Opening round under the lights on the Faldo Course

Saturday (Jan 17): Afternoon shotgun start on the Faldo Course, followed by a cut to the top 30 players (and ties)

Sunday (Jan 18): Final round on the Majlis Course, days before top players like Rory McIlroy and defending champion Tyrrell Hatton compete in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.

The 2025 event saw Czechia’s Louis Klein win with rounds of 69, 63, and 69, as the JDDC extends its global reach. Players from India, Thailand, Europe, Argentina, Canada (for the first time), and the GCC are expected in 2026.

Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, stated: “The Junior Dubai Desert Classic offers opportunity, providing boys and girls 18 and under a pathway event with WAGR® points, a top-notch venue, and increasingly international participation.”

“We aim to keep it aspirational and open, welcoming upcoming players from the UAE and abroad — including newcomers from Canada — to compete on a real stage,” Corkill added.

“With valuable prizes and invitations for junior advancement, the JDDC remains the region’s standard for elite youth competition where young talents can challenge themselves and excel.”

Opportunities & Prizes

Thanks to the Emirates Golf Federation, prizes include invites to: