The likes of Now United, Elyanna, and Issam Alnajjar are some of the confirmed acts.

With the year’s slimiest event – the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards – on the horizon, Paramount and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi have officially announced the first performers confirmed for the 2023 edition taking place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Award-winning group Now United, Palestinian-Chilean singer-songwriter Elyanna, top Saudi artist Bader Al-Shuaibi, and Jordanian singer-songwriter Issam Alnajjar will all take the stage on 16 September.

More names will be revealed in the coming weeks. The event will also feature Syrian-Canadian content creator Osama ‘Ossy’ Marwah as co-host of a party packed with family-friendly fun, unexpected moments, and more surprises than before. “Growing up I watched all my favourite stars take this very stage,” says the social media star. “I cannot wait to make this KCA the best one yet!” Known for his light-hearted and funny videos that often involve his friends and family, Ossy has amassed over 12 million followers across all platforms, making him one of the region’s leading YouTube stars.

Now United is the world’s first global music team, with singers and dancers from 18 countries sharing their talents, music, passions, friendship and experiences in real-time across digital and social media. With a fanbase of over 129 million followers worldwide, and having surpassed two billion views on YouTube, it demonstrates the power and positivity of music and dance through its inherent diversity. Zane (USA), Savannah (Australia), Nour (Lebanon), Desiree (Brazil), Lamar (UK), and Melanie (Ivory Coast) are expected to perform at the 2023 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards in Abu Dhabi.

Elyanna, meanwhile, unites listeners around a stunning signature style steeped in Arabic music, pop and R&B. Singing in Arabic and English, the Palestinian-Chilean singer and songwriter instantly enchants with soul and spirit. Being the first to perform in Arabic at Coachella Music Festival, she is at the vanguard of a new generation poised to make Arabic music heard globally.

Saudi pop artist Bader Al- Shuaibi started his career at a young age in 2002. He gained fame in the Arab world with his distinguished and different art. Always keen to reach all audiences, he made it to the top as a global popstar, his face appearing on a billboard in New York’s Times Square to mark his collaboration with K-pop star Alexa.

As for Issam Alnajjar? The Jordanian singer-songwriter began his musical career by posting videos on social media. His debut single “Hadal Ahbek” went viral, leading to the young artist being the first person signed to Universal Arabic Music. Today, the young sensation continues to amass millions of streams with his impressive vocals, relatable lyrics, and acoustic tunes.

Tickets are now on sale, and fans can vote across 16 categories on Nickelodeon’s website and Instagram account. The show will premiere on Nickelodeon MENA and aired on Nickelodeon channels worldwide.

GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for tickets or more information.