Here are some of the best Pakistani dramas of all time that have been widely appreciated globally:
1. Humsafar (2011-2012)
Cast: Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Naveen Waqar
Why it’s loved?
- A beautifully tragic love story with intense emotions and gripping performances.
- Streamed on Netflix and gained popularity in India, the Middle East, and beyond.
- Mahira Khan & Fawad Khan became international stars after this drama.
2. Zindagi Gulzar Hai (2012-2013)
Cast: Fawad Khan, Sanam Saeed, Samina Peerzada
Why it’s loved?
- A powerful social commentary on gender roles, class differences, and ambition.
- Highly acclaimed in India, UAE, Bangladesh, and Turkey.
- One of the most-watched Pakistani dramas on Zindagi Channel (India).
3. Mere Paas Tum Ho (2019-2020)
Cast: Humayun Saeed, Ayeza Khan, Adnan Siddiqui
Why it’s loved?
- Broke rating records in Pakistan, with the final episode screened in cinemas.
- Gained attention worldwide for its controversial storyline and intense dialogues.
- Huge following in India, UAE, and among the Pakistani diaspora in the US/UK.
4. Dastaan (2010)
Cast: Fawad Khan, Sanam Baloch, Ahsan Khan
Why it’s loved?
- A historical romance drama based on the Partition of India (1947).
- Critically acclaimed for its strong emotional depth and historical accuracy.
- Received international praise for its cinematic storytelling.
5. Pyarey Afzal (2013-2014)
Cast: Hamza Ali Abbasi, Ayeza Khan, Sohai Ali Abro
Why it’s loved?
- A heart-touching love story with an unforgettable tragic ending.
- The dialogues and Hamza Ali Abbasi’s performance were widely appreciated.
- Became a cult classic in South Asia and the Middle East.
6. Alif (2019-2020)
Cast: Hamza Ali Abbasi, Sajal Aly, Kubra Khan
Why it’s loved?
- A spiritually uplifting drama about faith, love, and self-discovery.
- Praised internationally for its deep messages and strong performances.
- Loved by audiences in Turkey, UAE, and Indonesia.
7. Suno Chanda (2018-2019)
Cast: Iqra Aziz, Farhan Saeed, Nadia Afghan
Why it’s loved?
- A lighthearted romantic comedy that became a Ramadan favorite.
- Viral on social media for its humor and strong character chemistry.
- Loved by Pakistani audiences worldwide, especially in UK, Canada, and UAE.
8. Parizaad (2021-2022)
Cast: Ahmed Ali Akbar, Urwa Hocane, Ushna Shah
Why it’s loved?
- A unique story about self-worth and resilience.
- International audiences appreciated its cinematography, music, and deep storyline.
- Huge popularity in Middle East, UK, and India.
9. Shehr-e-Zaat (2012)
Cast: Mahira Khan, Mikaal Zulfiqar, Mohib Mirza
Why it’s loved?
- A spiritual journey about self-realization and materialism.
- Mahira Khan’s performance won international acclaim.
- Popular among intellectual audiences in South Asia and the Middle East.
10. Khaani (2017-2018)
Cast: Feroze Khan, Sana Javed
Why it’s loved?
- A gripping drama about love, power, and revenge.
- Feroze Khan’s portrayal of an obsessive lover was praised worldwide.
- One of the most-watched Pakistani dramas on YouTube globally.