Pakistani Celebrities Who Made It Big Internationally

In recent years, several Pakistani celebrities have stepped beyond national fame to make their mark on the global stage. Whether it’s in film, music, fashion, or television, these stars have represented Pakistan internationally, breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.

🌍 1. Mahira Khan

Mahira Khan is one of Pakistan’s biggest stars, known globally for her acting, grace, and charm.

International Achievements:

• Co-starred with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan in Raees (2017).

• Walked red carpets at Cannes Film Festival and other global events.

• Brand ambassador for L’Oréal Paris and Elan internationally.

• Featured in interviews with BBC, CNN, and Vogue India.

🎶 2. Atif Aslam

A household name in South Asia, Atif Aslam’s voice has captivated millions.

Global Fame:

• His songs have featured in multiple Bollywood films, gaining huge popularity in India and abroad.

• Performed at global venues including Wembley Arena (UK) and Dubai Expo.

• His international fan base spans across India, UAE, UK, Canada, and the US.

🧕 3. Malala Yousafzai

While not a “celebrity” in the entertainment sense, Malala is a global icon.

Recognition:

• Nobel Peace Prize Winner (2014) — youngest ever recipient.

• Recognized by TIME, Vogue, BBC, and Netflix (appearing on shows like My Next Guest with David Letterman).

• Founded the Malala Fund, working globally for girls’ education.

🎤 4. Ali Zafar

Ali Zafar is not only a talented singer and actor in Pakistan but also known across borders.

International Highlights:

• Starred in multiple Bollywood films like Tere Bin Laden, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, and London, Paris, New York.

• Performed at international events and collaborated with artists from India, the Middle East, and Europe.

📺 5. Riz Ahmed

Born in the UK to Pakistani parents, Riz Ahmed proudly represents his roots in global cinema.

Global Success:

• Won an Emmy Award for The Night Of (HBO).

• Nominated for an Oscar for Sound of Metal (2021).

• Advocates for Muslim and South Asian representation in Western media.

• Featured in major films like Venom, Nightcrawler, and Rogue One.

🧕 6. Iqra Aziz & Yasir Hussain (Content Impact)

While primarily based in Pakistan, the duo’s work has gained international traction through YouTube, social media, and appearances at international film festivals and award shows.

🎬 7. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy

An internationally acclaimed filmmaker and journalist.

Achievements:

• Two-time Academy Award winner for short documentaries (Saving Face and A Girl in the River).

• Emmy Award winner.

• Selected to direct a new Star Wars film — a first for any Pakistani.

💃 8. Mehreen Syed

Mehreen Syed is one of Pakistan’s top supermodels.

International Features:

• Walked in Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks.

• Appeared in international fashion magazines such as Vogue, Time, and Cosmopolitan.

🧑‍🎤 9. Coke Studio Pakistan – Global Influence

Although not a person, Coke Studio Pakistan deserves mention for taking Pakistani music global:

• Songs like Pasoori by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill went viral globally.

• Featured in international music charts and playlists, including Spotify Global.