Under the radiant lights of Riyadh's ANM Arena, the fifth annual Joy Awards transformed a January evening into a dazzling celebration of creativity, artistry, and inspiration. With its signature lavender carpet and star - studded guest list, the event solidified its position as one of the Arab world's most prestigious cultural showcases, uniting regional and international talents in an unforgettable night of triumphs and elegance.
Hosted by Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, the 2025 Joy Awards once again became a beacon for artistic excellence across the MENA region and beyond. From music and film to television, digital media, and sports, the event honored 19 outstanding individuals and projects, expanding its scope with new categories like the Directors Award and subcategories in TV Series.
With its roots deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric on the region, the Joy Awards showcased a vision of unity and creativity, celebrating both emerging talents and established icons. This year's event also highlightes the Arab world's growing influence on the global entertainment stage, broadcasting live on MBC channels and Shahid to millions of viewers worldwide.
Gracing the lavender carpet were some of the brightest stars from the Arab world, alongside global legends who have shaped the entertainment industry for decades. Hollywood icons Morgan Freeman and Hans Zimmer were honored with lifetime achievement awards, recognizing their unparalleled contributions to cinema and music.
The event also celebrated the rich cultural contributions of Arab legends, including Yasser Al Azma, Abdullah Al Muhaisen, and Abdullah Al Ruwaished. Andrea Bocelli, a global icon of music, brought an international flair to the evening, highlighting the event's ability to bridge cultures and industries.
Matthew McConaughey, named Personality of the Year, captivated audiences with his heartfelt acceptance speech, embodying the spirit of the Joy Awards - a celebration of passion, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence.
The Joy Awards also shone a spotlight on Arab Talent, with standout winners across categories:
Best Film: Welak Rizk 3: El Qadia
Best Actress in a Film: Hannah El-Zahed for Fasel Men El Lahazat El Lazeeza.
Best Actor in a Film: Hesham Maged for Ex Merati
Best Gulf Series: Shabab El Bomb 12
Best Egyptian Series: Nema El Avoccato
Best Levant Series: AlRawabi School for Girls (Season Two)
Music luminaries Assala Nasri and Ayed were crowned Best Female and Male Artist, respectively, while rising star Rakan Al Sa-ed captivated audiences as Best New Artist.
The Joy Awards has become synonymous with high fashion, and this year was no exception. The lavender carpet transformed into a runway of couture brilliance, featuring opulent gowns, sleek suits, and bold style statements. Stars from across the region and beyond dazzled, turning the evening into a visual feast that celebrated individuality and elegance.
In its fifth edition, the Joy Awards continued to grow its influence, adding categories, and refining its vision to reflect the evolving cultural landscape of the MENA region. By introducing a Directors Award and highlighting the contributions of behind-the - scenes visionaries, the event emphasized the collaborative nature of artistic achievement.
This inclusivity extended to emerging talents, with awards like Best Rising Star recognizing new voices shaping the future of Arab entertainment.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the Joy Awards 2025 was a celebration of joy itself - a unifying force that transcends borders, languages, and mediums. From honoring trailblazing legends to nurturing emerging talents, the event highlighted the power of storytelling and artistry to inspire, connect, and transform.
As the ANB Arena empathies and the lights dimmed, the echoes of applause lingered - a testament to the enduring magic of the Joy Awards and its place as a cornerstone of Arab culture excellence. With each edition, this grand celebration continues to shine brighter, charting a course for a future where creativity knows no bounds.