Ranveer Singh’s spy thriller Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar, has found a new audience in the UAE through its Netflix release after missing a theatrical run in the Gulf region. The film, which generated significant attention during its theatrical release in India, was earlier barred from cinema screenings in several Gulf countries due to content related restrictions.
Dhurandhar was not released in theatres across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. Reports indicated that the decision was taken because of the film’s political theme, which includes strong references perceived as anti Pakistan. As a result, audiences in the Gulf market were unable to watch the film on the big screen despite its popularity elsewhere.
Netflix has now made Dhurandhar available for streaming in the UAE, allowing viewers to access the film in its original Hindi version as well as dubbed editions in Tamil and Telugu. Sources confirmed that the streaming platform has opened access to the film in the region, marking its first official release there.
The move has been welcomed by fans who had been waiting for the film’s release since its theatrical debut. Dhurandhar continues to run in select theatres in India, sharing screens with films such as Border 2 and the recently released Mardaani 3. Its strong box office performance reportedly set high benchmarks for other releases this year.
The film stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role and features a high octane espionage narrative. Directed by Aditya Dhar, known for his work in action driven storytelling, Dhurandhar blends political tension with large scale action sequences. The film’s success has already prompted discussions around a sequel, with the makers hinting that preparations for Dhurandhar Part Two are underway.
Apart from the Gulf nations, Dhurandhar was also banned from theatrical release in Pakistan. It remains unclear whether the film will be made available for streaming in the neighbouring country, as no official confirmation has been issued regarding regulatory approval there.
Industry observers note that streaming platforms are increasingly becoming alternative distribution channels for films that face regional theatrical restrictions. The Netflix release has enabled Dhurandhar to reach international audiences who were previously unable to access the film legally.
The makers have not issued a formal statement regarding the regional bans or the Netflix rollout strategy. However, the digital release is expected to further expand the film’s global reach and sustain audience interest ahead of the anticipated sequel.
With its arrival on Netflix in the UAE, Dhurandhar adds to the growing list of Indian films that have found wider international viewership through streaming platforms despite theatrical limitations.
