Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — Global pop star Katy Perry expressed excitement at attending the Joy Awards and visiting Saudi Arabia for the first time during a live interview on the lavender carpet in Riyadh on Saturday.

“I’m so happy to be here — it’s my first time in Saudi Arabia,” Perry said as she opened the Joy Awards’ lavender carpet, highlighting its distinctive color compared to the traditional red carpet.

Describing the atmosphere, Perry said purple is a royal color and called the setting “really luxurious,” adding that it felt flattering and celebratory, particularly for women.

She linked the vibrant energy of the carpet to the medley she performed during the ceremony, which included “Roar,” “Dark Horse,” and “Firework.”

“It’s going to be a big performance,” Perry said. “There’s so much glamor.”

Perry revealed that her dress was designed by Saudi designer Waad Aloqaili, whom she met in person. She said choosing a local designer was intentional.

“I wanted to wear a local designer to celebrate the local culture,” she explained.

When told about her large fan base in the Kingdom, Perry said she would love to meet her Saudi fans and confirmed that the Joy Awards marked the first performance of her career in Saudi Arabia.

“I am so excited and eager to be welcomed back to do a proper show,” she said, adding that she hopes to include Saudi Arabia on a future tour.

Her performance featured an animated tiger created with drones.

Perry also said she was enthusiastic about presenting the award for Best Arab Female Musician and expressed interest in learning more about Arab music.

She concluded by praising Saudi hospitality, saying she enjoyed the food and coffee upon arrival.

“The moment I landed, I had chicken shawarma,” she said.