The Indian film industry’s biggest annual event, the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, is set to take place in Abu Dhabi for its 2024 edition, and none other than Bollywood’s King Khan—Shah Rukh Khan—has made a grand entrance, sparking a frenzy among his global fan base. Known for his larger-than-life persona, Shah Rukh Khan’s arrival has dominated social media, with fans celebrating his presence and dubbing him as “the last of the stars.” As one of the most enduring and beloved figures in Indian cinema, SRK’s appearance at such prestigious events continues to capture hearts, reminding everyone of the timeless appeal he holds, not just in India, but worldwide. As soon as Shah Rukh Khan touched down in Abu Dhabi, the anticipation surrounding the IIFA 2024 skyrocketed. His arrival was met with adoration from fans who had gathered at the airport to catch a glimpse of the superstar. Dressed in his signature stylish, yet understated, look—sporting a pair of sunglasses, a casual black jacket, and denim—SRK was seen waving to his admirers, igniting a sea of cheers. While IIFA has always been about glamour and the presence of Bollywood’s biggest stars, Shah Rukh’s entry added a heightened sense of excitement to this year’s event. Fans took to social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Threads to share photos and videos of his arrival. Hashtags like #SRKinAbuDhabi and #IIFA2024 quickly began trending, with fans and media alike eagerly anticipating what Shah Rukh Khan’s role at the ceremony would be. One fan tweeted, “Shah Rukh Khan just landed in Abu Dhabi, and it already feels like the highlight of IIFA! The man is pure charisma in motion.” Another fan posted on Instagram, “The moment we’ve all been waiting for—King Khan is here for IIFA! The true star of Bollywood.” What has particularly stood out in the flood of social media posts is the recurring phrase used by fans: “the last of the stars.” This expression reflects a growing sentiment among audiences that Shah Rukh Khan is one of the few remaining iconic Bollywood actors who transcends generations and global boundaries. It’s a tribute to his ability to maintain an unrivaled presence in the film industry for over three decades, despite the rapid changes in Bollywood’s star system. Many fans feel that in an era dominated by new-age actors, streaming platforms, and shifting tastes in entertainment, Shah Rukh Khan represents an era of true stardom—where a handful of actors held unmatched sway over the industry and audience alike. His stardom is not only rooted in his filmography but also in his ability to maintain a personal connection with his fans, both in India and across the globe. His appeal is universal, and no one comes close to the kind of magic he creates.” Another fan echoed this sentiment on Threads, writing, “There’s no one like SRK. He’s a global icon, a star who has endured through every phase of Bollywood. He really is the last of the stars.” Shah Rukh Khan’s status as a global ambassador for Indian cinema is well-established. Over the years, his charm, humility, and iconic roles have earned him legions of fans in places as far-flung as the Middle East, Europe, North America, and even non-traditional Bollywood markets like Germany and Brazil. His frequent visits to the UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have further cemented his strong bond with the region.
Shah Rukh Khan arrives in Abu Dhabi for IIFA 2024, fans say, ‘Last of the stars’
Abu Dhabi has become an increasingly popular destination for major Bollywood events, including IIFA, due to the Emirate’s thriving film and entertainment infrastructure. Shah Rukh Khan, who has long enjoyed a special relationship with the Middle East, is a natural fit for these events. His connection with the UAE goes beyond film promotions; he is also the face of Dubai Tourism and has been a regular at high-profile events in the region. Fans in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE, hold Shah Rukh in high esteem, and his arrival for IIFA 2024 is seen as a major highlight of the event. The warmth with which he was received at the airport and the massive social media buzz around his presence underline his unique ability to attract attention wherever he goes. One Twitter user from Abu Dhabi posted, “It’s SRK fever in Abu Dhabi! The king has arrived for IIFA, and the energy here is insane. You can feel the love people have for him—it’s like no other.” The IIFA Awards have long been one of Bollywood’s most glamorous events, celebrating the best in Indian cinema while promoting the industry to international audiences. The 2024 edition, held in the Yas Island district of Abu Dhabi, is no exception, promising a star-studded night filled with performances, red carpet glamour, and high-profile awards. While the exact details of Shah Rukh Khan’s participation in IIFA 2024 remain under wraps, fans and media are speculating that he could either be a presenter for one of the top awards or deliver a special performance. Over the years, SRK has graced the IIFA stage multiple times, delivering memorable performances and hosting the event in his signature witty style. Given the major successes of his recent films, including Jawan and Pathaan, both of which broke box office records worldwide, Shah Rukh Khan’s presence at IIFA 2024 is even more significant. Both films have re-established him as the reigning king of Bollywood, with his popularity reaching new heights. Fans are eager to see if the superstar will take home any major awards, given his recent cinematic achievements. As Shah Rukh Khan’s arrival at IIFA 2024 demonstrates, his stardom remains as potent as ever, even in a rapidly changing Bollywood landscape. While many actors have come and gone, few have managed to stay relevant for as long as SRK has. His career, which spans over 30 years, includes a diverse array of roles, from romantic heroes in films.