DUBAI (AFP) - Rory McIlroy confirmed he is back on top form with a stunning 63 as the first round of the $2.5 million Dubai Desert Classic got under way on Thursday with a barrage of birdies.

Firing seven birdies and an eagle, the 24-year-old from Northern Ireland continued his storming start to the season which saw him take second place at Abu Dhabi two weeks ago, his first tournament since winning the Australian Open in early December.

It was a flawless display of golf that left playing partner Tiger Woods in the shade, although the world No.1 was happy to settle for a four-under 68 in what is also his second tournament of the year.

His opener last week at Torrey Pines, San Diego ended in him firing a 79 on Saturday to miss the secondary cut at the Farmers Insurance Open.