Hero Dubai Desert Classic secures GEO Certified status for 4th year running

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic has achieved GEO Certified® Tournament status for the fourth consecutive year, reinforcing its position as one of the leading examples of sustainable event delivery in professional golf.

The achievement marks another important milestone in the tournament's sustainability journey, which saw the Hero Dubai Desert Classic become the first GEO Certified® tournament in the Middle East and now the first event within the DP World Tour's Rolex Series to maintain certification across four successive editions.

The announcement coincides with World Environment Day, which this year focuses on accelerating collective action to address environmental challenges through practical, measurable solutions.

GEO Certified® is the internationally recognised distinction for sustainable golf tournaments, administered by GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation.

The independent verification process assesses event performance across tournament staging, communications and legacy delivery, while also identifying opportunities for continual improvement.

The 2026 certification follows another year of significant action across the tournament's sustainability programme, building on initiatives introduced in previous editions while continuing to reduce environmental impacts and strengthen positive social outcomes.

Key initiatives recognised through the verification process included:

• The Green Incubator Challenge as a global initiative to find innovative sustainable solutions for events, with the winner to implement their idea at the 2027 Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
• Continued use of renewable and alternative energy solutions across tournament operations with 100% energy from solar and biodiesel.
• Reduced reliance on traditional diesel-powered generation through battery and energy management technologies.
• Expanded sustainable procurement practices and responsible material sourcing.
• 100% of waste diversion through comprehensive recycling and energy recovery programmes.
• Promotion of public transport notably the Dubai Metro and lower-carbon travel options for spectators, staff and suppliers.
• Community engagement initiatives focused on health, wellbeing, education and participation in golf.

 The tournament also continues to work closely with Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Golf, suppliers, sponsors and delivery partners to embed sustainability considerations throughout event planning and operations.

Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, said: "Sustainability continues to be a central part of our planning and decision-making. While we are proud of the progress made over the past four years, our focus remains on continual improvement and identifying new opportunities to reduce environmental impacts, create positive social outcomes and leave a meaningful legacy through the tournament.

"We are grateful to our partners, suppliers, stakeholders and spectators for their support in helping us achieve this important recognition."

The verification highlights several areas where the tournament demonstrates leadership within professional golf, including sustainability communications, stakeholder engagement, responsible resource management and collaborative legacy programmes.

Jonathan Smith, Founder and Executive Director of GEO Sustainable Golf Foundation, added: "The Hero Dubai Desert Classic continues to be a leading example of what can be achieved when sustainability is integrated into every aspect of event planning and delivery. The commitment shown by Falcon and Associates, Emirates Golf Club and their partners has helped establish the tournament as one of the most progressive events in professional golf from a sustainability perspective."

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic's continued GEO certification reflects Dubai's wider commitment to environmental responsibility, innovation and sustainable development, while demonstrating how major sporting events can contribute positively to communities, climate action and resource stewardship.