From Arab cinema’s biggest triumphs to global celebrity glamour, the 2026 Joy Awards in Riyadh delivered blockbuster wins, viral red-carpet moments, and international star power in a night that felt like the Middle East’s own Oscars meets Grammys.
Riyadh turned into the entertainment capital of the world this weekend as the 2026 Joy Awards unfolded in spectacular style, bringing together the brightest stars from Arab music, film, television, sports, and digital culture, alongside major international celebrities.
Held on Saturday in the Saudi capital, the star-studded ceremony celebrated creative excellence across multiple industries and reaffirmed its position as the Middle East’s most influential entertainment event — often dubbed the regional equivalent of the Oscars, Grammys, and Emmys rolled into one glittering night.
The biggest winners of the evening included Mohammed Shaker, Angham, hit television series Shari’ Al A’asha and Ashghal Shaqqa Geddan, and the critically acclaimed film Siko Siko, which dominated key categories and emerged as the night’s cinematic champion.
But beyond trophies, the Joy Awards 2026 also delivered unforgettable red-carpet glamour, jaw-dropping performances, and viral celebrity moments that are already trending across search engines and social media platforms.
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Siko Siko Dominates Film Categories
The film Siko Siko emerged as the undeniable star of the night, winning Best Movie and Best Film Director for Omar Al Mohandes, cementing its status as one of the most impactful Arab films of the year.
The film beat strong contenders including Al Zarfa, Ars Al Nar, and Hobal, signaling a massive audience and industry endorsement. Critics praised the film’s storytelling, cinematic craft, and emotional depth — and the Joy Awards jury clearly agreed.
In acting categories, Shujoun Al Hajri won Best Actress in a Film for Ars Al Nar, while Maged El Kedwany clinched Best Actor in a Film for Feha Eh Ya‘ni, delivering powerful performances that resonated strongly with audiences.
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Television Triumphs: Shari’ Al A’asha and Ashghal Shaqqa Geddan Rule
Television also had its champions. The Gulf drama Shari’ Al A’asha took home Best Gulf Series, while Egyptian hit Ashghal Shaqqa Geddan won Best Egyptian Series, confirming their massive popularity across regional audiences.
In the Levant category, Salma was crowned Best Levant Series, standing tall against strong competition like Aser, Biddam, and Taht Sabi’ Ard.
Performance awards went to some of the industry’s most respected faces. Karess Bashar won Best Actress in a Series for Taht Sabi’ Ard, while Abdulmohsen Al Nemer claimed Best Actor in a Series for Al Marsa.
Rising talent also received spotlight attention. Tarf Al Obaidi won Best New Face in Drama for Ummi, marking a promising breakthrough moment.
Directing honors went to Ahmed Katikxiz and Ghul Saralton for their work on Shari’ Al A’asha, further boosting the show’s winning streak.
Music Winners: Angham and Mohammed Shaker Take Center Stage
Music categories brought massive cheers and fan celebrations. Legendary singer Angham was crowned Best Female Artist, defeating heavyweights like Assala and Nancy Ajram.
On the male side, Fadel Shaker won Best Male Artist and also secured Best Song for Sahak Al Shawq, making it a double victory night for the beloved singer.
One of the biggest breakout moments belonged to Mohammed Shaker, who won Best New Music Artist, officially stamping his arrival on the mainstream music scene.
Other music winners included strong contenders such as Al Shami, Ayed, and Luna Karam, highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of Arab pop culture today.
Sports and Influencers Shine Too
The Joy Awards continue to expand beyond entertainment, honoring sports icons and digital creators.
Yassine Bounou was named Best Male Athlete, while Laila Al Qahtani took home Best Female Athlete, reflecting the region’s growing sports influence globally.
Influencer categories saw Rayan Al Ahmari winning Best Male Influencer and Rateel Al Shehri clinching Best Female Influencer, reinforcing the growing power of digital creators in shaping youth culture and trends.
Lifetime Achievements and Global Honors
The emotional high points of the evening came during the special honors segment. Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker and former Egyptian culture minister Farouk Hosny received Lifetime Achievement Awards, earning standing ovations from the audience.
International sensation Millie Bobby Brown, best known for Stranger Things, was named Personality of the Year, marking a powerful moment of East-meets-West cultural celebration.
Singer Assala Nasri received a Joy Honorary Award, while industry veterans including Amr Mostafa, Ahmed Al Dougji, and Saleh Al Areedh were also honored.
The prestigious Diamond Entertainment Industry Award was presented to Nasser Al Khelaifi, acknowledging his massive contribution to the global entertainment ecosystem.
Shah Rukh Khan, Hollywood Stars Add Global Glamour
One of the biggest highlights was the star-studded lavender carpet. Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan drew thunderous applause as he arrived, instantly becoming one of the most photographed celebrities of the night.
Hollywood representation was equally dazzling, with Oscar Isaac, Jeremy Piven, Heather Graham, and Travis Fimmel turning heads.
The global presence reinforced the Joy Awards’ rising reputation as a truly international entertainment platform rather than just a regional awards ceremony.
Katy Perry, Robbie Williams, Il Divo Electrify the Stage
Musical performances elevated the spectacle even further. Global pop icon Katy Perry, British superstar Robbie Williams, and classical crossover group Il Divo delivered high-energy performances that kept audiences glued to their screens.
The ceremony was broadcast live across MBC channels and the Shahid streaming platform, ensuring massive regional and international viewership.
Why the Joy Awards Matter More Than Ever
Now in its sixth year, the Joy Awards is organized by Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and has rapidly evolved into a powerhouse platform celebrating Arab creativity on a global scale.
Industry insiders increasingly view it as the Middle East’s cultural bridge to Hollywood and international markets, helping elevate regional talent onto the world stage.
The awards also reflect Saudi Arabia’s expanding entertainment ambitions and cultural investment, positioning Riyadh as a global creative hub.
Full Winners Snapshot Highlights
- Best Movie: Siko Siko
- Best Female Artist: Angham
- Best New Music Artist: Mohammed Shaker
- Best Gulf Series: Shari’ Al A’asha
- Best Egyptian Series: Ashghal Shaqqa Geddan
- Personality of the Year: Millie Bobby Brown
- Lifetime Achievement: Forest Whitaker, Farouk Hosny
Final Word
The Joy Awards 2026 delivered a dazzling mix of artistic excellence, celebrity glamour, cultural pride, and international star power. From the dominance of Siko Siko and the musical triumphs of Angham and Mohammed Shaker to Shah Rukh Khan’s magnetic presence and Millie Bobby Brown’s global recognition, the ceremony proved that Middle Eastern entertainment has firmly arrived on the world stage.
For fans, creators, and industry insiders alike, the Joy Awards continue to redefine what a global entertainment celebration can look like — glamorous, inclusive, and boldly ambitious.
Stay tuned to Ulta Palta Khabar for more trending entertainment news, award show highlights, celebrity updates, and global pop culture buzz.
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