Salman received recognition at the event, marking his second appearance at the Joy Awards in Riyadh, where he was invited by dignitaries as a special guest
According to Variety, another big shocker was that this time the Best Picture category was not announced last, instead, they saved the lead acting categories for that.
It was a surprise win for the actor as many expected the Academy to honour late star Chadwick Boseman for his performance in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom".
"When you are working for years, the good plays and films make you go around examining life. This one made me think about my past, my parents and particularly the sweet sadness of it all," said Hopkins.
"The Father" is in contention at the Oscars in the categories of Best Film, Best Actor (for Anthony Hopkins), Best Supporting Actress (Olivia Colman), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing and Best Production Design.