Nadia Al-Jundi Sparks Controversy at teh 2025 Joy awards in Riyadh
The 2025 Joy awards ceremony, held on Saturday evening in Riyadh, was a star-studded affair that brought together some of the brightest names from the Arab world and beyond. However, it was artist Nadia Al-Jundi who stole the spotlight—not just for her presence, but for the controversy surrounding her bold fashion choice.
Al-Jundi appeared on the lavender carpet in a dress that exposed her stomach, a look that quickly became the talk of the event. While she confidently posed for memorial photos, her outfit drew sharp criticism from many social media users, sparking a heated debate online.The Joy Awards, known as the largest artistic event in the Middle East, saw an remarkable lineup of attendees. Among them were Bassem Samra, Amr Youssef, Nelly Karim, Somaya El Khashab, and international icon Anthony Hopkins. The event also featured ahmed El Sakka, Ahmed Helmy, Mona Zaki, Ahmed Saad, Ahmed Ezz, Asala, Ramez Jalal, and Yasmine Sabry, among others. The festive atmosphere was complemented by extensive international media coverage, solidifying the ceremony’s status as a premier cultural event.
It’s worth noting that Al-Jundi’s last notable appearance was in the 2020 series “Sukar Ziyada”, where she starred alongside Nabila Obaid, Samiha Ayoub, and Hala Fakher. Her return to the limelight at the Joy Awards has reignited interest in her career, even as her fashion choice continues to dominate conversations.
For more highlights from the event, check out how hisham Maged was awarded Best Film Actor by a Turkish star, or relive the moment when Tamer Hosni performed and Nelly Karim joined him in a dance.| Key Highlights of the 2025 Joy Awards |
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| Location | Riyadh, Saudi arabia |
| Date | January 18, 2025 |
| Controversial Moment | Nadia al-Jundi’s outfit |
| Notable Attendees | Anthony Hopkins, Nelly Karim, Ahmed Helmy |
| Media Coverage | International |
The Joy Awards once again proved to be a platform where art, culture, and controversy intersect, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating next year’s event.
Interview: Fashion Controversy at the 2025 Joy Awards
Senior Editor: Today, we’re joined by Dr. Leila Abdelaziz, a cultural critic and expert in Middle Eastern media and fashion, to discuss the recent controversy surrounding Nadia Al-Jundi’s outfit at the 2025 Joy Awards. Welcome, Dr. Leila!
Dr. Leila Abdelaziz: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Senior Editor: The Joy Awards are known for being a glamorous event, but Nadia Al-Jundi’s choice of attire has sparked quite a debate online. What’s your take on the situation?
Dr. Leila Abdelaziz: It’s engaging because fashion has always been a form of self-expression, and in the context of events like the Joy Awards, it often becomes a statement. Nadia’s choice to wear a dress that exposed her stomach was daring, especially in a conservative region like Saudi Arabia. While some applaud her for pushing boundaries, others see it as a misstep in cultural sensitivity.
Senior Editor: Do you think this controversy reflects broader tensions between tradition and modernity in the region?
Dr. Leila Abdelaziz: Absolutely.The Middle East is undergoing rapid cultural shifts,and events like the Joy Awards,which draw global attention,often become a stage for thes tensions. Fashion, in particular, is a powerful medium for this dialogue. Nadia’s outfit, while controversial, is part of a larger conversation about how artists navigate their identities in a globalized world.
Senior Editor: The Joy Awards also featured international stars like Anthony hopkins. How do such global figures influence these cultural dynamics?
Dr. Leila Abdelaziz: International celebrities bring a level of global visibility to events like this, which can amplify both the celebration and the critique. Their presence underscores the region’s growing influence on the world stage, but it also raises questions about cultural exchange and representation. It’s a delicate balance, and I think the Joy Awards are navigating it quite well overall.
Senior Editor: Nadia Al-Jundi’s last notable appearance was in the 2020 series “Sukar ziyada.” Do you think this controversy will have a lasting impact on her career?
Dr.Leila Abdelaziz: It’s hard to say. Controversy can be a double-edged sword. While it has certainly reignited interest in her career,it also exposes her to scrutiny.Ultimately, her future will depend on how she leverages this moment—whether she uses it to redefine her image or allows it to overshadow her work.
Senior Editor: what do you think this moment means for the future of events like the Joy Awards?
Dr. Leila Abdelaziz: I think it highlights the evolving nature of such events. As they continue to grow in prominence, they’ll inevitably become arenas for broader cultural debates. The challenge will be to celebrate art and creativity while remaining mindful of the diverse audiences they serve.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Leila, for sharing your insights. It’s been a engaging conversation.
dr. Leila Abdelaziz: My pleasure. Thank you for having me.
