The fifth edition of the Joy Awards took place at ANB Arena in Riyadh on Saturday, honoring top Arab and international stars. Hosted by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) under the chairmanship of Turki Al Al Sheikh, the event brought together prominent figures, celebrities, and guests from around the globe.
The ceremony kicked off with artistic performances, followed by the awards presentation. Notable winners included Syrian actor Samer Ismail, who received the award for Favorite Actor in the TV Series category, and Saudi actress Al Anoud Abdulhakim, honored as Favorite New Face in the Series category. The Favorite Egyptian Series award went to “Ne’mat El-Afokado", while the Favorite Gulf Series award was presented to “Shabab Al-Bomb 12”, accepted by Faisal Al-Issa.
Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Syrian artist Yaser Al-Azmeh, American actor Morgan Freeman, Italian musician Andrea Bocelli, Saudi filmmaker Abdullah Al-Muheisen, Kuwaiti singer Abdullah Al Ruwaished, and international composer Hans Zimmer.
The Favorite Actress in the Series category award went to Huda Hussein, while Hana Al-Zahed won Favorite Actress in Cinema. Egyptian actor Hesham Maged was named Favorite Actor in Cinema.
Sports awards recognized Salem Al-Dawsari as Favorite Athlete and Saudi mixed martial artist Hattan Al-Saif as Favorite Female Athlete.
A highlight of the evening was the Diamond Entertainment Industry Award, presented to the late Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen in honor of his poetic contributions. His son Prince Khaled bin Badr accepted the award on his behalf.
For the first time, the Most Popular Song award was shared by Egyptian singers Angham and Tamer Ashour. Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad was recognized for his outstanding contributions to fashion.
Other notable awards included Favorite Song for Majid Al-Mohandis and Favorite Influencer awards for Ahmad Al-Qahtani and Narin Beauty. Emerging Musical Talent was awarded to Saudi artist Rakan Al Sa’ed, while Matthew McConaughey was honored as the Personality of the Year.
The Joy Awards also celebrated industry veterans such as Mariam Al-Saleh, Ibrahim Al-Sallal, and several Gulf icons, recognizing their pioneering roles in entertainment.
