Despite the makers’ attempts, the movie could not secure theatrical releases across the Middle East.

According to media sources, the film’s theme was considered sensitive. A source said, “There were apprehensions that this would happen as the film is perceived as an ‘anti-Pakistan film’.

The team still made an attempt, but none of the countries approved the film’s theme. That’s why Dhurandhar hasn’t been released in any Gulf territory.”

Directed by Aditya Dhar, known for Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) and Article 370 (2024), Dhurandhar features Ranveer Singh as an Indian spy in Karachi’s Lyari. The cast also includes Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Akshay Khanna.

The film, released on December 5, has drawn criticism from both Pakistani and Indian audiences for its strong propaganda-driven narrative.

Many Pakistani viewers were disappointed that local content does not claim stories belonging to Pakistan, while some criticized fellow Pakistanis for embracing Indian movies despite repeated bans and boycotts.

Also read: Iffat Omar Responds to Nadia Khan’s Criticism on Dhurandhar controversy

This is not the first time an Indian film has faced Gulf restrictions. Fighter (2024) starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone was initially cleared only in the UAE but later suspended. A revised version was rejected after removing “problematic” scenes.

Other films, including Akshay Kumar’s Sky Force (2025) and John Abraham’s The Diplomat (2025), were also banned in the UAE for similar reasons.