The countdown is on to the Hero Dubai Desert Classic (HDDC) 2025, with just 36 days until the 36^th edition of the iconic sporting spectacle returns to the city from Thursday January 16 to Sunday January 19 – with more for the whole family to look forward to than ever before.

Beyond the golf itself – which will feature blockbuster names such as Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Tommy Fleetwood with more names to be announced soon – a thrilling programme of entertainment, music, activities, and great food and drinks are also on offer, making it a perfect day out for all ages.

Family fun at Tournament Town

Golf fans and fun seekers alike are in for an action-packed experience at Tournament Town, where family-friendly excitement awaits around every corner, every day. The schedule is bursting with non-stop entertainment, with daily live music and captivating performances to creative arts like face painting, calligraphy, and crafts. The fun doesn’t stop there; magicians, caricature artists, dazzling glitter painting, jaw-dropping juggling acts, and lively parades will keep the atmosphere electric throughout the event.

Guests can enjoy the lively atmosphere and great food from a wide array of F&B vendors – across local and international flavours and home-grown brands, along with a large selection of drinks, along with live music performances into the evening as they soak up the weekend vibes.

The Sustainability Corner is the place to be for a fun and interactive deep dive into the tournament’s green initiatives. Visitors of all ages can get hands-on with educational and fun sustainability-focused activities, like soil painting and seed bomb making, while learning about the event’s eco-friendly efforts.  The HDDC is the first Middle Eastern golf event and the first in the DP World Tour Rolex Series to earn GEO Certified® Tournament status for 2023 and 2024, recognising its commitment to sustainability through impactful environmental initiatives.

Tournament Town is open daily from 10am to 11pm, ensuring plenty of time to make the most of the festivities.

FamilyBeatz Festival

Dubai’s first family rave, FamilyBeatz, will bring an unforgettable afternoon of music on Friday, January 17, from 3-6pm. Part of the HDDC Family Friday, FamilyBeatz offers a unique opportunity for all ages to come together and enjoy a party vibe in a safe, lively, and inclusive atmosphere. Families can expect a lively DJ set from the dynamic duo Dan and Kristian of SoMuchHeat, spinning soulful beats from disco to house. Entertainment includes glitter face painting, arts and crafts, bubbles, and more, ensuring kids of all ages – and their parents – can dance and play the afternoon away.

Premium tickets and hospitality

Brand new for 2025 is “The Social on Sixteen”, an exciting new premium ticket which is inclusive of 4 hours of free-flowing beverages from 12 – 4pm, and a choice of premium casual dining options. Positioned on the iconic 16th green, “The Social on Sixteen” is the ultimate spot for golf enthusiasts and anyone looking to soak up the tournament’s electric atmosphere and enjoy prime views of all the action with friends. A few limited Early Bird tickets remain for “The Social on Sixteen” which are priced at only AED 650.

The Dallah Lounge Hospitality overlooking the 9^th and 18^th hole offers the ultimate premium hospitality elevated experience where guests can enjoy an array of all-inclusive dining, live cooking stations and beverage options in luxury and comfortable surroundings, with an incredible golfing bird’s eye views from the Sky Deck. A limited number of hospitality packages remain for certain days of the tournament from 2000 AED.

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic is the oldest golf event in the Middle East and next year’s event will be the 36^th edition of the tournament. Established in 1989, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic is a key fixture on the DP World Tour and a part of the esteemed Rolex Series, instrumental in introducing golf to the Middle East and producing some of the sport’s most memorable moments.

For more details and to purchase a limited number of remaining hospitality and premium packages, or secure free general admission tickets, please visit: www.dubaidesertclassic.comand via the Hero Dubai Desert Classic app available now on App Store or Google Play.

Organisers of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic are inviting volunteers from the UAE and beyond to assist with the 35th edition of the tournament offering a range of roles for individuals aged 16 and over to gain experience and contribute to the event’s success. Registration is now open https://www.dubaidesertclassic.com/home