Entries are officially open for the 2026 Junior Dubai Desert Classic (JDDC), with the fourth edition set to take place at Emirates Golf Club from 16–18 January 2026. The event continues to build its reputation as one of the region’s most exciting junior tournaments, inspiring the next generation of golfers.
Organised in collaboration with the Emirates Golf Federation, this year’s competition marks the second time the JDDC will hold World Amateur Golf Ranking® (WAGR®) status, offering young players a vital opportunity to progress within the global amateur golf system.
The tournament is open to boys and girls aged 18 and under who hold a handicap of 14.4 or better. Whether based in the UAE or travelling from abroad, aspiring juniors will have the chance to experience a genuine tour-level competition across Emirates Golf Club’s two world-class courses – including Friday night golf on the Faldo Course and a final round on the renowned Majlis Course on Sunday morning, just ahead of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic week.
2026 schedule
- Friday (Jan 16): Opening round under the lights on the Faldo Course
- Saturday (Jan 17): Afternoon shotgun 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 the world’s best, including record four-time winner Rory McIlroy and defending champion Tyrrell Hatton, arrive for the Hero Dubai Desert Classic on the same championship layout.
Louis Klein of Czechia claimed a superb victory in 2025, posting rounds of 69, 63 and 69 and the JDDC continues to broaden its global reach, with juniors for the 2026 edition expected from India, Thailand, Europe, Argentina and, for the first time, Canada, as well as the GCC.
Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said: “The Junior Dubai Desert Classic is about opportunity – giving boys and girls 18 and under a true pathway event with WAGR® points, a world-class setting and a field that grows more international each year. We’re committed to keeping it aspirational and accessible, welcoming rising players from the UAE and overseas – including first-time entrants from Canada – to compete on a genuine stage. With meaningful prizes and invitations that help juniors progress, the JDDC continues to be the region’s benchmark for elite youth competition and a place where talented young golfers can test themselves and thrive.”
Prizes include places in the Faldo Series Grand Final, Shubhankar Series Grand Final, HDDC Driving Range Experience and Clutch Tour starts, thanks to the Emirates Golf Federation.
How to enter: Full details and registration at www.dubaidesertclassic.com/juniors (T&Cs apply).