Indian Cinema’s Premier Global Celebration Returns to Yas Island for a milestone fourth showcase; star lineup announced and ricket sales to launch
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Miral, the emirate’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, have officially announced the return of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards to the UAE capital. The highly anticipated 27th edition of the global celebration will take place on January 22 and 23,2027 at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena on Yas Island
The landmark announcement, formalized during a ceremonial signing at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier recurring host for international entertainment. The ceremony brought together H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi; Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Miral; and Andre Timmins, co-founder of IIFA, celebrating a partnership that has grown in scale and ambition since the capital first hosted the awards in 2022.
An initial star-studded lineup has been unveiled for the 2027 showcase. Industry icons Salman Khan Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shahid Kapoor are confirmed to headline the weekend. They will be joined by a stellar contingent of talent including Karan Johar Varun Dhawan Janhvi Kapoor Pahlaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal.
Although the initial roster of attendees is set, organizers are keeping specific roles including hosts, performers, and presenters under wraps to build anticipation.
According to H.E.Saleh Mohamed Al Geary, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi
“The return of the IIFA Awards reflects Abu Dhabi’s deep-rooted cultural and entertainment ties with India,” It underscores our commitment to establishing the emirate as a world-class destination for global cultural events and entertainment.”
Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications and Events at Miral, shared the enthusiasm for the venue’s role in the event’s history: “We are delighted to welcome IIFA back to Yas Island. The Etihad Arena has become a special milestone in IIFA’s global journey, and we look forward to hosting fans from all over the world for this spectacular weekend.”
Andre Timmins Founder and Director of IIFA
framed the 27th edition as the start of a historic new chapter: “We are raising the bar for 2027 with bigger stars, grander experiences, and deeper fan engagement. This celebration will reach far beyond the arena. We are incredibly grateful to our partners, including Sobha Realty, YouTube, and ZEE, for helping us bring this massive vision to life.”
For over 26 years, IIFA has traveled the world, bringing the magic of Indian cinema to global hubs like London, Amsterdam, New York, and Bangkok. The 2027 edition promises to be its most expansive and engaging iteration yet.
News Edit KV Raman
