The two-time Major champion arrived in the UAE capital on Monday, just weeks after welcoming his fourth child with wife Kelley, and wasted little time getting his first look at the championship course.

And it's fair to say he liked what he saw.

"It's in about as good shape as you can expect a golf course to be," said Rahm after playing the front nine.

"That was absolutely fantastic. Not a blade of grass out of place. Firm, but reactive in a consistent way. It was truly enjoyable."

Rahm facing a Race to Dubai showdown

Despite his impressive pedigree, Rahm arrives in Abu Dhabi with work to do.

The Spaniard currently sits 51st in the Race to Dubai Rankings, just one place outside the top 50 who will qualify for next week's DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

With the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship marking the first event of the DP World Tour Play-Offs, a solid performance at Yas Links should be enough to see him through.

"The good thing about this week is that we are all guaranteed points," Rahm explained.

"I know I need to play well but I don't think I need a stellar effort to make it to next week.

"I would say if I just play solid, I know the way that I can play golf, I should play next week."

Rahm certainly knows how to win in the UAE, having claimed the DP World Tour Championship title in Dubai on three occasions, in 2017, 2019 and 2022.

And with windy conditions expected to play a part at Yas Links, his two Irish Open victories on exposed coastal courses could prove useful.

But the World Number 15 isn't interested in whether a particular course suits his game.

"I think nowadays, we get very caught up on a golf course fitting a player, where I think as players, it's our duty to adjust to the golf course and the conditions," he said.

"I think the players that can do that the best are the ones that can win consistently."

"It's in about as good shape as you can expect a golf course to be," said Rahm after playing the front nine at Yas Links

From the fairways to Ferrari World?

It's Rahm's first visit to Abu Dhabi, and while the golf is understandably his priority, he's also hoping to experience some of what Yas Island has to offer.

With Yas Marina Circuit and Ferrari World just minutes from the course, the Spaniard is keen to explore once his tournament commitments allow.

"Obviously I'm aware that the F1 track is right there, Ferrari World is right here. I just haven't been able to go out and explore," he said.

"Tomorrow after the Pro-Am when I have a free afternoon, maybe I get to do a little bit of that."

While Rahm and the rest of the field battle for a place in Dubai's season finale, the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship is also promising four days of entertainment away from the fairways.

Taking place from 5–8 November, the tournament will bring together 70 of the leading available players on the Race to Dubai Rankings, alongside live music, family activities and interactive sports experiences.

As part of the UAE's Year of the Family celebrations, the tournament's Family Weekend will run across both Saturday and Sunday, with children aged 17 and under enjoying free entry throughout the event.

The Future Falcons Kids' Zone will feature everything from bouncy castles and face painting to bubble shows, giant games and free golf lessons.

Meanwhile, the Championship Village will host interactive golf challenges, a long putt competition, big screens, sponsor activations and plenty of opportunities to get closer to the action.

Live music throughout the weekend

The entertainment doesn't stop when the final putt drops each day, with live performances scheduled across all four evenings.

Scottish singer-songwriter Greg Pearson, who has previously supported Lewis Capaldi, OneRepublic and James Blunt, will kick things off on Thursday.

Abu Dhabi trio Speed Wagon take over on Friday, followed by indie cover band Wet Grass on Saturday, with Ollie Chapman bringing the tournament to a close on Sunday.

How to attend the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship

For anyone looking to catch some world-class golf in Abu Dhabi this week, there's good news: general admission is completely free on Thursday and Friday.

Weekend tickets cost AED 90 when booked in advance, compared with AED 100 at the gate, while children aged 17 and under enter free.

Fans looking for an upgraded experience can choose from two hospitality options:

  • Bar on Nine: Tickets start from AED 180 and include an AED 100 food and beverage voucher.
  • Championship Chalet: Premium, air-conditioned hospitality overlooking the 18th green, with prices starting from AED 1,600.

For those unable to attend, the tournament will also be available to stream across the Middle East via Recast, with individual rounds and four-day passes available.

The Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship takes place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi from Thursday 5 November to Sunday 8 November 2026.

Find out more and book your tickets here.