Joy Awards: Saudi Arabia's answer to Oscar, Grammy ceremonies

In just a few years, Saudi Arabia has accomplished what Hollywood – long regarded as the pinnacle of global entertainment – has yet to envision: establishing a platform that redefines art, culture, and international influence. This vision was vividly demonstrated at this year's Joy Awards in Riyadh, where Canadian music superstar Michael Bublé performed alongside Lebanese legend Wael Kfoury in January 2025 . The evening also featured Italian opera sensation Andrea Bocelli sharing the stage with Saudi Arabia’s beloved icon, Mohammed Abdo.

For decades, awards ceremonies like the Oscars and Grammys have dominated the entertainment industry, focusing largely on Hollywood and Western music. However, as an article by the Al Arabiya publication points out, Saudi Arabia’s Joy Awards is quickly emerging as a formidable counterpart, celebrating international stars while simultaneously spotlighting Arab talent on the world stage.

Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman was celebrated at the fifth edition of Saudi Arabia’s Joy Awards in Riyadh over the weekend, with one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, Welsh-origin Anthony Hopkins presenting him with a Lifetime Achievement Award on stage. Entertainment acts also included performances by Saudi Singer Mohammed Abdo, US pop icon Christina Aguilera and beloved Turkish singer-songwriter Tarkan.

Managed by Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA), the Joy Awards are voted on by the public and are aimed at shining a spotlight on the accomplishments of talent from the Gulf region, the wider Arab world, and internationally.

Other notable guests further reflected on the event's vision to bring professionals from different countries together: America's Forest Whitaker, Kiefer Sutherland, Amanda Seyfried, Martin Lawrence, Cuba Gooding Jr, India's Hrithik Roshan as well as Turkish stars Burak Özçivit, Tûba Büyüküstün, French soccer star Thierry Henry, Egyptian cinema power couple Ahmed Helmy and Mona Zaki and Lebanese fashion designer Zuhair Murad.

Unlike traditional Western shows, the Joy Awards goes beyond showcasing Saudi talent, offering a platform for Arab artists to shine globally. Nowhere else but Saudi Arabia could we witness unique collaborations like Michael Bublé and Wael Kfoury performing together.

Saudi Arabia is striving to position itself as a global cultural hub, which follows the narrative of its Vision 2030 initiative. According to the government is built around three primary themes: a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation.

While Hollywood’s influence remains unparalleled, it often adheres to a predominantly Western framework. In contrast, the Joy Awards embodies a new model, uniting global and regional talent on a single stage. This deliberate celebration of Arab artistry alongside international icons underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to redefining the global cultural narrative.

By embracing diversity, collaboration, and inclusivity, the Kingdom is making a powerful statement: Arab talent deserves a prominent place on the global stage.

By Nazrin Sadigova