RIYADH: Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan delivered a masterclass in elegance at the 2026 Joy Awards ceremony in Riyadh, captivating attendees with his sophisticated all-black attire and heartfelt appreciation for Saudi hospitality. The iconic actor, celebrated globally for his cinematic achievements, became one of the evening’s standout personalities during the prestigious event held in the Saudi capital.
During his red carpet appearance, Khan reflected warmly on his previous experiences in the kingdom, noting the remarkable evolution of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment landscape. ‘The transformation has been extraordinary,’ Khan remarked. ‘From my initial visits to witnessing this magnificent growth, returning always feels particularly special.’
The Pathaan star expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming admiration he receives from Saudi audiences, describing the connection as ‘deeply heartening and dignified.’ His commentary highlighted the mutual respect between the Indian cinema icon and his Middle Eastern fanbase.
Khan revealed personal connections to the region through professional engagements, having previously filmed portions of a movie project in Saudi Arabia. ‘The breathtaking locations, rich cultural tapestry, and exceptional cuisine create an irresistible allure,’ he shared. ‘My previous twelve-day working visit only intensified my desire to return purely for leisure, to properly immerse myself in the Saudi experience.’
The Joy Awards 2026 gathered an impressive constellation of international talent, with attendees including Hollywood sensation Millie Bobby Brown, pop icon Katy Perry, and Squid Game stars Lee Jung-jae and Lee Byung-hun. Khan’s sartorial choice—a impeccably tailored black blazer and trousers ensemble—complemented the event’s glamorous atmosphere.
Following the ceremony, Khan took to social media platform X to share a heartfelt exchange with Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. His post celebrated ‘half a decade of Joy Awards’ and praised the ‘spectacular and grand’ production values of the event.
Looking toward future projects, Khan’s upcoming film King promises to showcase a transformative performance from the actor. Teaser footage released during his recent birthday celebrations revealed a dramatically intense version of the star, featuring silver-haired visuals and gripping action sequences. The project, directed by Siddharth Anand and jointly produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, reportedly includes Khan’s daughter Suhana among its cast, though specific details remain undisclosed.