The international music film and television awards season goes into high gear in the early months of the year, bringing together a succession of high-profile ceremonies that recognise the past year’s most acclaimed work.
We've already ticked off the Critics' Choice Awards and the Golden Globes, and next in line is the 68th Grammy Awards.
While most of these events take place in the US or the UK, several are accessible to viewers in the UAE through regional broadcasters and global streaming platforms.
Here is a guide to the most significant awards, their background, and whether they can be watched in the UAE.
Grammy Awards (February 1)
The Grammy Awards are the most prestigious honours in the global music industry, organised by the Recording Academy since 1959. While not a dedicated film/TV ceremony, the Grammys include key soundtrack categories such as Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media and Best Song Written for Visual Media that directly intersect with cinema and television.
UAE start time: 5am on February 2
Can I watch in the UAE? No. There is no broadcaster for the Grammy Awards in the Middle East. Clips from the show can be watched on the official YouTube channel after the broadcast ends.
Independent Spirit Awards (February 15)
Established in 1984, the Independent Spirit Awards celebrate filmmaking outside the Hollywood studio system, with a focus on originality, creative risk and independent production. Organised by Film Independent, the ceremony has earned a reputation for highlighting films that go on to mainstream recognition.
In recent years, the awards have expanded to include television categories, reflecting the rise of independently produced series and limited-run projects.
UAE start time: About 4am on February 16
Can I watch in the UAE? Yes. The ceremony is streamed live globally on YouTube through Film Independent and IMDB’s official channels, making it fully accessible in the UAE without a subscription.
Bafta Film Awards (February 22)
Dating to 1947, the Bafta Film Awards are presented by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts and are regarded as one of the most prestigious honours in global cinema. While rooted in the UK industry, Bafta frequently recognises international films and performances.
The ceremony is often viewed as a key Oscars precursor, particularly in acting and technical categories, though Bafta voting tends to reflect distinct British and European sensibilities.
UAE start time: About 1am on February 23
Can I watch in the UAE? There is no confirmed live TV or streaming broadcast available. Selected clips and acceptance speeches are typically released online after the event.
The Actor Awards (March 1)
The Actor Awards presented by Sag-Aftra, formerly known as the SAG Awards, spotlight acting performances in film and television. The ceremony is voted on by members of Sag-Aftra, making it a unique peer-driven gauge of performance recognition prior to the Oscars. The 2026 ceremony marks the first under its new name.
UAE start time: 4am on March 2
Can I watch in the UAE? Yes. The awards ceremony will be streamed on Netflix.
Writers Guild Awards (March 8)
The Writers Guild Awards are among Hollywood’s longest-running industry prizes, first presented in 1949, and organised by the Writers Guild of America, East and West. They honour outstanding writing in film, television, radio, news and digital media, offering early season insight particularly for scripted categories.
UAE start time: 6am on March 9
Can I watch in the UAE? No. There is no confirmed regional broadcast or streaming partner.
Academy Awards (March 15)
The Academy Awards, first presented in 1929, remain the most globally recognised celebration of cinematic achievement. Organised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Oscars honour excellence across acting, directing, writing and technical disciplines.
An Oscar win continues to have a significant impact on a film’s cultural and commercial life, often driving renewed cinema attendance and streaming interest worldwide. In recent years, the Academy has expanded its international reach, with increased recognition for non-English-language films.
UAE start time: About 3am on March 16
Can I watch in the UAE? Yes. The Oscars have been broadcast live in the UAE by Shahid, including red-carpet coverage and the full ceremony.
On December 17, however, the academy announced a partnership with YouTube from 2029. A statement read: "The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and YouTube signed a multi-year deal that will give YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars, beginning in 2029 with the 101st Oscars ceremony and running through 2033."
Past awards shows in 2026
Critics’ Choice Awards (January 4)
The Critics’ Choice Awards, which are voted on by members of the Critics' Choice Association, who represent film and television critics across North America, entered its 31st year in 2026. Established in 1995, the ceremony has become a reliable early indicator of awards momentum, particularly in the lead-up to the Oscars.
The awards recognise both film and television, reflecting the convergence of prestige cinema and premium TV, and have gained influence as critics’ choices increasingly align with later industry wins.
Available in the UAE? There was no confirmed regional TV or streaming partner offering a live or full replay of the ceremony. Official clips and highlights were released online after the event.
Golden Globe Awards (January 11)
First held in 1944, the Golden Globe Awards are among the longest-running internationally recognised screen awards. They are distinctive for dividing film and television honours into drama and comedy or musical categories, allowing a broader range of titles to be recognised.
The Globes have shaped awards season narratives, boosting the visibility of international films and emerging talent alongside major studio releases.
Available in the UAE? Yes. In recent years, the ceremony has been broadcast live in the UAE on Shahid, MBC’s streaming platform, including red-carpet coverage. While final confirmation for 2026 is pending, Shahid remains the most consistent regional broadcaster.
