Pakistani singer-actor Ali Zafar’s Dubai diaries: Location hunting, action movie dreams, and a surprise role offer
The actor spills the beans on collaborating with controversial rapper Honey Singh and more
Dubai: Catching up with Pakistani actor and singer Ali Zafar feels like flipping through a movie script—dramatic pauses, big ideas, and unexpected plot twists.
He’s in Dubai scouting locations for his next actioner, and in a moment of generosity, he pretends to offer me a role—only to cast me as his sister. How original.
"Dubai is one of the most enchanting cities in the world," he says.
"It’s diverse, open, and you meet people from everywhere. People are moving here from LA, from Italy, because of the lifestyle and diversity."
With this city as his inspiration, Zafar is set to bring an "intense" cultural crossover drama that will appeal to both Pakistanis and Indians.
Excerpts from our interview with the singer-actor as we talk movies, collaborations with controversial rapper Honey Singh, and more ...
Ali, it’s been a long time since we last met. Catch me up—what’s happening in your life?
Lots of good stuff! I’m making music, preparing for my next feature film, doing collaborations, and touring. Most importantly, I’m spending quality time with my wife and kids—that’s my priority.
I remember our last meeting during the promotions of Teefa in Trouble. Why are you taking things slow and why don’t we see more of you?
I ask myself the same question! But I have a very good answer. The life I’ve curated—with my family and my art—is so fulfilling that if something takes me away from it, it has to be truly worth my while. I like my Zen space. But when I do work, I give it my all. That’s why I’m here in Dubai—we’ve started working on the next movie. It’s something very interesting, and you’ll find out soon!
Is the film based in Dubai?
It’s probably going to be based in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, but the story is rooted in our culture back home. It’s close to both India and Pakistan, and you’ll see people coming together from both sides.
Does acting still enchant you?
It does! But only the right kinds of roles and stories. I don’t want to do fluff.
Why not? Fluff is fun!
Unless it’s Barbie-style self-aware fluff, I’m okay with that! But not cringe fluff.
What’s happening with your music? I saw your social media post about a new collaboration. Tell us more.
Yes! I recently jammed in the studio with Honey Singh. He’s such a mesmerizing personality and a really good soul. We bonded instantly and worked on a few songs together. He loved something I did, I liked what he had done, and now we’re planning something exciting.
Honey Singh has seen the highs and lows of fame. Reinvention isn’t easy, is it?
That’s exactly what I was telling someone recently! Making it big initially is one thing, but going down and then reclaiming it—that really tests you. Honey Singh has done that, and I respect him a lot for it. He produces his own music, and he has hundreds of songs ready to go. His passion is infectious.
You’re collaborating with an Indian rapper. Does art transcend political rivalries?
Absolutely. When we sit together and jam, politics doesn’t even enter the conversation. I recently collaborated with T.I. in Atlanta on Munda on the Rise. Whether I’m working with an Indian artist or an international artist, it’s all about music. Artists have a responsibility to be mindful and respectful of different cultures. I’ve always felt love when I worked in India, and I still do.
Speaking of today’s music scene, do you think social media-driven popularity translates to real performance talent?
Sometimes, no. Unfortunately, we’re in a world where social media dictates everything. Some artists get huge online but may not have the stage presence to back it up. It’s important to focus on your craft, not just marketability.
We live in a world of ChatGPT now, where even love letters are written by AI!
Exactly! People even ask AI, How do I break up with my girlfriend without offending her, feeding her ego, and avoiding a reaction? If she reacts, they ask, How should I respond to that?
Do you ever fight with your wife?
We don’t really fight. We have conversations. If we disagree, we hear each other out and process it respectfully. She’s been incredibly patient and nurturing, and I’d feel guilty if I ever fought with her. If we do have a disagreement, one of us will hug the other within five minutes.
You’ve had a journey filled with highs and challenges. Has life been easy?
Life is not easy for anyone. We all have challenges. What defines you is how you respond. Letting go, forgiving, and staying grounded is key. I believe we are tested in two ways—by being given something and by having something taken away. Both times, you have to remain humble and understand that it’s part of the process.
As a singer, do you think South Asian artists struggle with production values compared to big international acts like Coldplay?
A lot of my energy goes into perfecting concert production—sound, visuals, inner monitoring. But we face challenges. Like, last night, two of my band members couldn’t get travel permits, so I had to find replacements and train them overnight ... But, nothing beats being on stage. Whether it’s three people or 300,000, it's those glorious moments on stage that matter. When you’re singing your heart out, you often enter a space where it’s just you, your music, and your emotions.
How do you deal with overzealous fans?
Have you seen The Matrix? When bullets are fired at Neo, he just says No, and they stop. That’s how I see it—the power of belief is strong enough to stop bullets.
Any final thoughts?
Life is treating me well, and I couldn’t be more grateful. 2025 has started beautifully, and I hope to bring more music and films to my fans soon.
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