More than 10,400 spectators attended the Dubai Invitational to see Tommy Fleetwood write his name into the history books as the inaugural event’s first-ever winner.
Englishman Fleetwood produced a stunning finish to hold off the final-day challenge of Rory McIlroy and Thriston Lawrence to win the tournament, which took place at Dubai Creek Resort from 11-14 January.
Fleetwood’s partner on day three, Ali Fatourechi, won the 54-hole team competition, with tournament host and McIlroy’s partner from Thursday and Saturday, Abdulla Al Naboodah, finishing on the same total but losing out on final-round score.
Abdulla Al Naboodah said: “The first-ever Dubai Invitational was a fantastic success and we’re delighted with the positive feedback received from the participating professionals, amateurs and spectators that attended the tournament. Hosting more than 10,400 people for an inaugural event is a strong start and reflects the significant interest in the tournament, as well as the continued growth of golf in Dubai and the UAE. We’re already looking forward to welcoming more fans to the next edition of the Dubai Invitational in 2026.”
As part of its commitment to the United Nations Sports for Climate Action Framework, the European Tour group is focused on Driving Golf Further by supporting and implementing sustainable innovations at its events, including the Dubai Invitational, to help cut direct carbon emissions in half by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2040.
Host venue Dubai Creek Resort implements a number of sustainability initiatives, including:
- Being first GEO Certified in 2016 and re-certified in 2019
- 75% reduction of waste to landfill by using an onsite food and waste composter
- Around 200,000 plastic water bottles saved every year through reusable water bottles
- 100% of all irrigation water used on the course is locally treated sewage water
- 400 indigenous Ghaf trees planted across the course
- Electric vehicle chargers available at the club for golfers and guests
- Old carpets used by the club for collecting grass clippings and dew removal
The Dubai Invitational sees a 72-hole strokeplay DP World Tour tournament played concurrently with a three-day team Pro-Am, with Sunday featuring professionals only. The next edition of the tournament will be held in 2026.
