IIFA Awards 2027 preparations

The 27th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards are scheduled for January 22 and 23, 2027, at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This event marks the fourth consecutive time the ceremony will be held in the emirate, organized in partnership with Miral and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

During a press conference in Mumbai on October 22, 2026, several prominent Bollywood actors attended, including Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Rashmika Mandanna, and Pankaj Tripathi. The event drew significant social media attention when Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shahid Kapoor shared a hug, a moment that went viral due to their history in the film ‘Jab We Met’. Salman Khan was also observed greeting Kareena Kapoor with a hug.

The ceremony is expected to be hosted by Varun Dhawan, Ananya Panday, Karan Johar, and Maniesh Paul. During the announcement, Dhawan emphasized a focus on celebrating filmmaking talent, specifically technicians. Additionally, Pankaj Tripathi is set to host the inaugural IIFA Digital Awards 2027 alongside Ali Fazal and Abhishek Banerjee.

IIFA co-founder Sabbas Joseph highlighted the expanding global footprint of Indian cinema, noting that international market earnings have risen from less than 2 per cent in 2000 to nearly 30 per cent currently. Organizers have also expressed interest in hosting the awards in the United States in 2028.