Let’s be real: Pakistani reality TV is kinda dead. Yeah, we’ve had some singing and talent shows here and there, but nothing that truly hits. Meanwhile, Shark Tank Pakistan pulled insane engagement because it was fresh, relatable, and actually useful (plus, we all love a good “main paisay double karunga” moment). So what’s next? If TV execs want a real win, they need to bring in international formats that already have a fanbase online.
While scripted dramas dominate Pakistani television, reality TV has largely struggled due to production challenges, cultural sensitivities, and audience preferences. But times have changed since Pakistan’s attempt at Kaun Banega Crorepati absolutely tanked.
Here’s what would absolutely pop off in Pakistan—if done right.
1. Say Yes to the Dress Pakistan – The Rishta Aunty Energy Is REAL
We all know Pakistani weddings are a national obsession. This TLC hit has been successful around the USA, Australia, UK, Dubai and India – is Pakistan next? Brides from different backgrounds visit a bridal boutique to try on stunning lehengas and shararas while family members debate over the final choice. Sprinkle in top designers like HSY and Nomi Ansari with a few budget friendly options (and the brides highly opinionated entourage)! The show format seamlessly blends fashion, family drama, and cultural traditions. Popcorn worthy!
2. Come Dine With Me – Pakistani Hospitality at Its Best
Pakistani households take immense pride in their food, and Come Dine With Me could bring out the best (and worst!) of home cooking. Each episode could feature four strangers hosting a dinner party, serving up traditional dishes like biryani, nihari, and chapli kebabs, while secretly critiquing each other’s hospitality skills. Add in some witty narration, and it’s the perfect mix of humor, competition, and delicious food. Replicated in multiple languages and countries (Greece, Russia, Turkey, USA, Brazil and India) this is a formula for success that audiences love!
3. Love It or List It Pakistan – Real Estate But Make It Spicy
This show is a hit in USA, Australia, Canada and Finland. What would it look like locally? Imagine a couple debating whether they should upgrade their ancestral 3-marla house in Nazimabad or move to a luxury apartment in DHA. Enter: A real estate agent trying to sell them the dream and a home designer trying to convince them to renovate instead. We get home transformations, budgeting drama, and at least one uncle saying, “beta, property tou sirf zameen hoti hai.” This would be ELITE content.
4. Undercover Boss Pakistan – CEOs Getting a Reality Check
Pakistan’s corporate culture is rarely explored on TV, but Undercover Boss could change that. Picture a big-shot CEO of a fancy company going undercover as a regular employee—getting micromanaged, underpaid, and ignored in WhatsApp groups. The twist? At the end, the hardworking employees get rewarded, and the toxic managers get a reality check. Whether it’s a struggling factory worker or an overworked office employee, this show could highlight workplace ethics and the importance of fair wages, respect, and leadership.We need this show just for the LinkedIn-worthy redemption arcs.
5. The Amazing Race Pakistan – An Adventure Across the Country
China, France, Brazil and even Ukraine has had a version of this travel hunt show. The next location we need is Hunza! A Pakistani version of The Amazing Race could take contestants on a thrilling journey across the country, completing cultural and physical challenges along the way. This would not only showcase Pakistan’s beauty but also test contestants’ endurance, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
6. Bling Empire Pakistan – A Peek into the Country’s Elite Lifestyle
Netflix’s Bling Empire became a global guilty pleasure by showcasing the extravagant lives of ultra-wealthy Asian elites. It’s time we dive a bit deeper into the social pages of Sunday magazine for a Pakistani version could take us inside high society—where designer couture, lavish parties, and million-dollar weddings are the norm. It would offer an inside look at Pakistan’s elite class while sparking conversations about privilege, fashion, and family drama. With the right mix of larger-than-life personalities, this show could be a viral sensation.
The success of Shark Tank Pakistan proves that audiences are ready for high-quality, engaging reality TV. By bringing globally successful formats to Pakistan with a local twist, the industry can explore fresh content that entertains, educates, and inspires. Whether it’s competitive cooking, bridal fashion, or real estate dilemmas, Pakistani television has the potential to make these adaptations a massive success.
