Salman Khan to host IIFA Awards in Abu Dhabi

Bringing together the very best of the Indian cinema and film fraternity, the 22nd edition of the biggest celebration of Indian cinema - the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend & Awards - is all set to be held on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on March 18 and 19, 2022, in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), and Miral, Abu Dhabi’s curator of magnetic experiences.

India and Abu Dhabi have enjoyed excellent relations through culture and trade for many decades. Uniting the world through cinema and celebration, the 2022 IIFA Weekend & Awards will be one of togetherness and positivity as it heads to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, further enhancing, strengthening and building even greater bonds between India, Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and millions of movie fans around the world.

Commemorating the 75th year of India’s independence and the UAE’s year-long Golden Jubilee celebrations, marking its 50th anniversary, the highly anticipated 22nd Edition of IIFA will showcase a grand celebration of Indian cinema’s finest talent, bringing together global dignitaries, international media, fans and film enthusiasts from across the world.

Hosted by Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, the event will take place at the Middle East’s largest state-of-the-art indoor entertainment venue, Etihad Arena, part of Yas Bay Waterfront on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Continuing their partnership for the seventh consecutive edition of IIFA, NEXA will be collaborating with Miral and DCT Abu Dhabi for this star-studded event.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “India has long been one of Abu Dhabi’s top inbound source markets for tourists building on strong historic ties. Hosting the IIFA Awards underlines the key strategic position the Indian market occupies for the emirate. In addition, we have enjoyed a great bond with India’s movie industry, that has for many years been attracted to the UAE capital by our high-quality infrastructure, so the addition of the IIFA to Abu Dhabi’s calendar of events aligns perfectly with our 5-year strategy to develop the cultural and creative industries. Hosting an event such as this also demonstrates the UAE capital’s appeal for attracting internationally-renowned entertainment, and the confidence organizers have in the emirate’s superior facilities, expertise and stringent health and safety protocols. We look forward to welcoming visitors from India and beyond to experience this event, and also to explore Abu Dhabi’s diverse tourist attractions and cultural offerings during their stay.”