Australia - Novak Djokovic's head won't be turned by millions of dollars on offer in the Gulf, with the Serb the only one of the world Top four players who will miss a big-money New Year exhibition in Abu Dhabi.

Instead, the defending Australian Open winner will tune up for the title defence of his career starting January 19 as he plays at the new Brisbane International event.

Fronting up in the desert for a quick payday hit from January 1-3 will be Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and British number four Andy Murray.

But with his eye on closing a hair-thin 10-point gap on number two Federer if possible, Djokovic is rolling the dice early in the new season.

"Now it's not only about the two players (Federer, Nadal) any more; it's about five, six, seven players who are playing really well and can win against each other," he said after lifting the Masters Cup last month.

"I believe I have quality to reach the top spot in the upcoming year or the next couple of years. That is my lifetime goal that I've been always trying to achieve."

Djokovic could kick-start his Open campaign during the first week of the year in Brisbane. The Serb will fly in shortly after the holiday from Europe, avoiding the temptation of taking the money in the Middle East but arriving exhausted for a late start to the January 4-11 ATP tournament.

Federer, Nadal and Murray will remain in the region as they play Doha that week, a venue where Murray is defending a title. (dpa)