IIFA 2027 Returns to Abu Dhabi for Fourth Time Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor to Perform
The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend & Awards is returning to Abu Dhabi in January 2027 for its 27th edition. The upcoming event will bring together some of Bollywood’s biggest stars for two days of entertainment, live performances and celebrations of Indian cinema.
The organisers have confirmed that the event will take place on January 22 and 23, 2027, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This will mark the fourth time IIFA has chosen Abu Dhabi as its host destination.
Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor to Perform
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan is among the major attractions of IIFA 2027. The actor is expected to take the stage for a live performance, adding star power to the international celebration of Indian cinema.
Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shahid Kapoor are also part of the announced performer lineup. Their participation is expected to attract considerable attention from Bollywood fans in India and overseas.
Other announced performers include Janhvi Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, while Nora Fatehi is also part of the entertainment lineup featured on IIFA’s official event page.
The event aims to bring together actors, filmmakers, musicians and entertainment personalities for a celebration of Indian films on an international stage.
Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan to Host the Main Awards
Filmmaker and television personality Karan Johar will host the main IIFA Awards ceremony alongside actor Varun Dhawan.
Both entertainers are known for their energetic stage presence and connections with the Hindi film industry. Their hosting partnership is expected to bring humour, celebrity interactions and entertainment to the ceremony.
Maniesh Paul and Ananya Panday are also listed as hosts on the official IIFA 2027 website.
The main awards ceremony will celebrate achievements in Indian cinema, bringing together industry professionals and stars for one of the most prominent international events dedicated to Indian films.
Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal to Host Digital Awards
The IIFA Digital Awards will also form part of the celebrations. Actors Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal have been announced as hosts for the digital awards segment.
The digital awards recognise the growing importance of streaming platforms and digital entertainment in India’s rapidly changing film and television industry.
With streaming services creating opportunities for new stories, performers and filmmakers, the digital segment will highlight the expanding reach of Indian entertainment beyond traditional theatrical releases.
Why Is IIFA Returning to Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has become an important international destination for IIFA. The 2027 edition will continue the partnership between the International Indian Film Academy, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.
Yas Island offers an established entertainment setting, with major attractions, hotels and event venues that can accommodate international visitors.
The return also reflects IIFA’s broader objective of promoting Indian cinema to global audiences and connecting the Indian film industry with fans across different countries.
The two-day event is expected to attract Bollywood enthusiasts, tourists and members of the entertainment industry.
IIFA 2027 Dates and Venue
The 27th IIFA Weekend & Awards will take place at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on January 22 and 23, 2027.
The first day is scheduled to feature the IIFA Weekend press conference, workshops and masterclasses, the IIFA Digital Awards green carpet and the digital awards ceremony.
The second day is scheduled to feature the main awards green carpet, the IIFA Awards ceremony and a post-awards party.
These events will offer fans and industry guests several opportunities to experience the celebrations beyond the main awards show.
IIFA 2027 to Reach Global Audiences Through YouTube
Another major development is IIFA’s planned partnership with YouTube for a worldwide livestream of the main awards ceremony.
The initiative is intended to help fans watch the celebrations from different parts of the world. Additional digital content, including celebrity conversations and behind-the-scenes coverage, is also planned around the event.
This move reflects the growing importance of online platforms in making major entertainment events accessible to international audiences.
Viewers should check IIFA’s official announcements for final livestream timings and viewing instructions.
IIFA 2027 Key Details
- Event: 27th IIFA Weekend & Awards
- Dates: January 22–23, 2027
- Venue: Etihad Arena
- Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Main awards hosts: Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan
- Other listed hosts: Maniesh Paul and Ananya Panday
- Announced performers: Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Nora Fatehi
- Digital Awards hosts: Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal
- Global livestream: Planned through YouTube
IIFA 2027 is shaping up to be a major celebration of Indian cinema, with Bollywood stars, live performances and international entertainment returning to Abu Dhabi.
Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shahid Kapoor are among the biggest names expected to perform, while Karan Johar and Varun Dhawan will host the main awards ceremony.
With the event scheduled for January 22–23, 2027, at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, the upcoming edition will mark IIFA’s fourth showcase in Abu Dhabi and continue its efforts to connect Indian cinema with audiences around the world.
