celebrating his win of the Filmfare (UAE) award. Saim delves into his inspiring journey through the entertainment industry and shares much more!
How has living in Dubai influenced your work in the entertainment industry?
I had my gears in the media industry over here before I moved to Dubai as I have done my higher studies here. As I have permanently shifted so it has definitely influenced in the most positive way possible.
What challenges have you faced transitioning from Pakistan’s entertainment scene to Dubai’s?
The only challenge was to register myself among the media world in Dubai, which I did over time and got great results in the form of good work and recognition over here.
Can you describe how your cultural background from Pakistan informs your roles and presentations?
Well being a Pakistani I had to face a lot of challenges. We as a nation are very insecure and self-centred people, we are not ready to help others , but here when I started working with other nationalities for work mostly I found myself in the right place with the right people. People here support each other and there is hardly any backstabbing.
What are some of the biggest differences you’ve noticed between the media industries in Pakistan and Dubai?
Oh so many! No lobby system and no barriers. Most importantly you are paid on time. The protocols I get on set here I have never got them back home. I was never even nominated in any awards in Pakistan clearly because of jealousy and insecurities of many people in the system but here I got one of the biggest Bollywood awards Filmfare Middle East where I was nominated not once but twice and won this year.
How do you balance maintaining your cultural identity while working in a diverse city like Dubai?
Well I am some one who strongly believes on “Jesa Deis Wesa Bhais” I am among the 1st Pakistani artist who received the Golden residency here 3 years ago and I am part of a lot of international projects. It is simply because of my positive attitude and loyalty with my work and craft which says a lot.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as an actor and presenter in Dubai?
I feel that I get to work with so many other nationalities here specially Bollywood which gives me great pleasure. From interviewing some big Bollywood celebrities here and also big stars from other countries, I always wanted to broaden my horizons and audience. I am the 1st Pakistani who did a Malaysian film and theatre in Malaysia and got massive recognition there too.
Are there any particular projects or roles that you’re especially proud of?
My work in Malaysia. I will always cherish it as an actor on the silver screen as well as on the Theatre stage. Dubai has given bigger and larger opportunities and platforms to perform and flourish . I am the 1st Pakistani to host the most prestigious awards, The Diafa and Emigala Middle East and also have been on the cover of world class publications such as Khaleej times and many more. My recent accomplishment also includes my Samsung UAE & Gulf’s commercial where I play a lead character.
How has the audience’s reception been to your work in Dubai compared to Pakistan?
Well Pakistan has given me my 1st recognition, I am proudly working for the softer image of my country and Pakistanis. My audience is definitely not restricted just to Pakistani as I have now larger number of Indians and emaratis among my audience.
Can you share a memorable experience or story from your career that stands out?
From my first ever morning show as a host in Pakistan to dramas and than my theatre and film experience in Malaysia. Furthermore shining on some of the biggest platforms in Dubai and much more that are equally amazing and memorable for me in so many ways.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors or presenters from Pakistan who want to work in Dubai?
You must work hard and flourish your name and of your country. I felt so happy when Mahira khan spoke at the Emigala that how proud she is being a Karachiite. We all must broaden our horizons and work worldwide.
