The Saudi capital, Riyadh, witnessed an exceptional night as the Arab entertainment industry celebrated its biggest stars. Saudi Arabian celebrities stole the show at the Joy Awards 2026 , the largest awards ceremony of its kind in the Middle East, held as part of Riyadh Season. This year's ceremony was distinguished by a clear Saudi dominance of the top awards, reflecting the tremendous development taking place in the Kingdom's arts and drama sector.
Abdulmohsen Al-Nimr wins the Favorite Actor award
In the fiercely contested drama category, the esteemed Saudi star Abdulmohsen Al-Nemer secured the title of "Favorite Actor" for his impactful role in the series "Al-Marsa." This victory crowns Al-Nemer's illustrious career, as he triumphed over a constellation of the brightest stars of Arab drama who delivered outstanding performances throughout 2025.
The list of candidates competing with Al-Nimr included names with artistic weight, such as the Syrian star Moatasem Al-Nahar for his role in the series “Nafs”, the Egyptian star Hisham Maged for the series “Ashghal Shaka Jiddan”, in addition to the young Saudi actor Abdulrahman Bin Nafeh, who shone in the series “Shari’ Al-A’sha”.
"Al-A'sha Street" is the best Gulf series
Continuing its trend of excellence in Saudi drama, the Saudi series "Shari' Al-A'sha" the "Favorite Gulf Series" award, surpassing strong contenders such as "Al-Marsa," "Ummi," and "Saif 99." The creators of the series received the award from Egyptian star Mohamed Henedy amidst enthusiastic applause from the audience, confirming the success of Saudi drama in presenting local stories with world-class production values that resonate with Gulf and Arab viewers.
Young faces and promising talents
As part of the support for emerging talent, Saudi actress Taraf Al-Obaidi the "Favorite New Face" award in the television series category for her outstanding performance in the series "My Mother." The competition in this category was very strong, with the list also including Ali Al-Baili for "Lam Shamsiya," Lama Abdulwahab for "Shari' Al-A'sha," and Roussel Al-Ibrahim for "Salma," promising a bright future for the new generation of Saudi actors.
Honoring prominent media and sports figures
The recognition wasn't limited to drama; it extended to media pioneers as well, with veteran Saudi broadcaster and presenter Saleh Al-Arayedh receiving the "Honorary Entertainment Makers Award." This honor recognizes his long career, during which he enriched Saudi television with his insightful programs, and serves as a bridge between the pioneering generation and the current one.
On the sports front, Saudi football player Laila Al-Qahtani the “Favorite Athlete” award, reflecting the great leap forward that women’s sports are witnessing in the Kingdom and the great support they enjoy.
Controlling digital awards
In the world of digital media and influencers, Saudi talent has made a strong showing. Reteel Al-Shehri the "Favorite Influencer" award, outperforming competitors from across the Arab world. Similarly, Saudi content creator and YouTuber Rayan Al-Ahmari the "Favorite Influencer" award, further highlighting the powerful impact of Saudi youth in the digital and creative content industry.
