Riyadh hosted the annual Joy Awards 2026, bringing together leading stars and creative projects from across the Arab world. Held as part of Riyadh Season and running annually since 2022, the ceremony continued its mission of honoring storytelling and creative excellence, spotlighting standout projects released over the past year.
Following the announcement of nominees, anticipation filled the venue as awards were presented across six categories: music, cinema, television series, directing, sports, and influencers. Alongside competitive awards, the ceremony also presented special honors, including Personality of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, and Joy Honorary Awards.
Previous editions of the Joy Awards have celebrated both Arab and international figures, including actor Matthew McConaughey, who received the Personality of the Year Award in 2025.
Kingdom’s Cultural Expansion
As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its entertainment sector—encompassing film, music, sports, and live events—the Joy Awards reflected Riyadh Season’s growing role as a platform for large-scale cultural celebrations. The ceremony underscored the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global hub for creative industries while championing regional talent.
Fashion, Fan Favorites Take Lavender Carpet
This year’s fan-favorite nominees, many of them Saudi nationals, were greeted with cheers as they walked the Joy Awards’ signature lavender carpet. Fashion once again played a central role, serving as a vibrant expression of the region’s evolving creative identity.
Among the winners was 14-year-old Saudi influencer Rateel Alshehri, who received the Favorite Female Influencer award. Speaking to Arab News on the lavender carpet, Rateel expressed her excitement about attending the ceremony.
“I’m so excited about being at the Joy Awards today—it’s something I’ve been looking forward to. Everyone here deserves to be here,” she said, adding that her sky-blue gown was designed by Saudi designer Adnan Akbar.
Arab, International Guests Praise Joy Awards Experience
The excitement surrounding the awards was shared by both Arab and international guests, many of whom praised the unique atmosphere Riyadh brings to the celebration of Arab art and entertainment.
Lebanese actress Laila Abdullah highlighted the Kingdom’s distinctive appeal, noting its blend of heritage and modernity. Speaking to Arab News, she said, “It’s this mix of culture and luxury. It has that Gulf Arab character—the Saudi touch—and that’s what really makes it stand out.”
The Joy Awards, she added, provided a platform for artists and dreamers eager to showcase their creative visions within the Arab world, mirroring the ambition and momentum that define Riyadh Season.
Global Storytelling on Regional Stage
International guests also took the opportunity to engage with Saudi media on the lavender carpet. Australian actor Luke Arnold described the event as a celebration of global collaboration in storytelling.
“What I’m most excited about is people from all over the world coming together to tell stories and share their expertise,” he told Arab News. “It’s exciting to hear about potential projects, meet local talent, and help bring more stories into the world.”
Lebanese fashion influencer Karen Wazen echoed this sentiment, praising the scale and energy of the event. “I’m so impressed and proud to be at an event like this in our region, in Saudi Arabia. This is probably the most impressive and largest carpet I’ve ever seen,” she said, adding that the ceremony offered a rare opportunity to connect with creatives across industries.
Star Performances, Major Honors
The ceremony’s vibrant atmosphere continued throughout the night, with international stars taking center stage. Actress Millie Bobby Brown was awarded Personality of the Year, while acting legend Forest Whitaker received the Lifetime Achievement Honor.
Music also played a key role in the evening, with American pop star Katy Perry delivering a live performance of her iconic hits, followed by a standout performance from British singer Robbie Williams.
Symbol of Cultural Transformation
The Joy Awards 2026 once again demonstrated that setting new benchmarks in entertainment and creative expression is not only achievable, but thriving when supported by local talent and regional ambition. As stars from around the world walked Riyadh’s lavender carpet, Arab culture was placed firmly at the forefront—spanning film, music, fashion, and digital creativity.
More than an awards ceremony, the Joy Awards stand as a symbol of the broader cultural transformation Riyadh is championing across the Arab world’s entertainment landscape.
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