Ananya Panday to Co-Host IIFA Awards 2027 in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI: (Showbiz Desk) – Bollywood actress Ananya Panday will co-host the 27th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards in Abu Dhabi in January 2027, returning to the stage where her journey with the global celebration of Indian cinema began.

The two-day event will take place on January 22 and 23, 2027, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, bringing together leading actors, filmmakers and other personalities from the Indian film industry to celebrate its achievements.

Panday said Abu Dhabi holds a special place in her career, as it was where she gave her first-ever performance at the IIFA Awards.

“Being a part of IIFA has always been incredibly special to me. My IIFA journey began in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, with my very first-ever performance on that iconic stage,” she said.

The actress recalled growing up watching IIFA and described being part of the celebration as a dream come true. She added that the awards had provided her with opportunities to grow professionally, explore new avenues and create lasting memories.

Panday said returning to the IIFA stage as a co-host in 2027 would make the occasion even more meaningful. She expressed excitement about celebrating the biggest stars, stories and achievements of Indian cinema with audiences around the world.

Actor Varun Dhawan will also host the awards. Reflecting on his association with IIFA, Dhawan said his previous participation in the event and performances in Abu Dhabi had given him lasting memories.

He praised IIFA for bringing together the Indian film industry and presenting its achievements to an international audience, describing his return to Yas Island as a great honour.

Filmmaker and television personality Karan Johar will also return as a host, marking his sixth time in the role.

Johar said his long association with IIFA had given him some of his most memorable on-stage experiences. He noted that the excitement and unpredictability of a live awards ceremony continued to make the event special.

“Coming back to Abu Dhabi makes it even more special, and I’m ready for the laughter, the surprises and everything IIFA 2027 has in store,” he said.

The 27th IIFA Weekend and Awards will be held at Etihad Arena on Yas Island on January 22 and 23, 2027, celebrating Indian cinema and its growing international reach.