Novak Djokovic says he is optimistic of success in Dubai this week

World No 1 Novak Djokovic says he is in confident mood ahead of his return to action in the Dubai Tennis Championships this week.

The World No 1 took a break after claiming his sixth Australian Open title earlier this year but is now ready to bid for Dubai glory and will take on Tommy Robredo of Spain in the first round.

"It's important to balance well to recharge and gain freshness and continue playing on a high level," said the 28-year-old Serb.

"I've done it this way for the past five or six years, taking a pause after the Australian Open and returning for Dubai.

"I had time to regroup for the next three or four months coming up on hardcourt and clay, when there is very little free time.

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"I've played a lot of tennis from the start of pre-season training through the Australian Open final. I needed to cool off a little bit and do something else.

"Being a father and husband is also a lot of work, but it is also a lot of pleasure."

Djokovic has been virtually impregnable since the start of 2015 and says he is in no mood to relinquish his grip at the top of the men's game.

Sky Live: Dubai Championships

Novak Djokovic will play his first match since his Australian Open triumph in Dubai

"I expect a lot from myself," he said. "I also put in a lot of dedication to get the results that I'm getting. I want to win every match I play, I feel I can beat any player on any surface.

"With the results I'm having, I have to be optimistic, but I try not to be over-confident.

"I have respect for the other players, I realise that I'm not the only one who wants to be the best in the world."

One of Djokovic's few setbacks over the last 12 months came when he was beaten by Stan Wawrinka in last year's French Open final.

And Wawrinka, who has not won a match in two previous appearances in Dubai, will compete at the tournament this year for the first time since 2008.

"It's been many years since I've played here," said the 30-year-old. "I wanted to change things. A few years ago I went to South America to play on clay.

"Mentally, it's important to see some new events. After so long away, it seems like a new tournament. That gives good energy."

However, Wawrinka could face a tough opening match against Sergiy Stakhovsky of the Ukraine.

Watch live action from the Dubai Championships, with Novak Djokovic on court this Monday, starting at 10am on Sky Sports 3.