YouTube has unveiled its much-anticipated ‘End-of-Year List 2024,’ celebrating the platform’s most-watched videos and creators in Pakistan.

This annual tradition offers a fascinating insight into the country's entertainment preferences and creative landscape, dominated this year by local dramas, action-packed films, and a diverse array of music.

The lists, which include categories such as Top Trending Videos, Top Music Videos, and Top Creators, underline the growing global appeal of Pakistani content. With 65 per cent of the watch time for locally produced videos coming from international viewers, Pakistani creators have cemented their global footprint.

Dramas dominate trending videos

Pakistan’s enduring love for storytelling was prominently reflected in the Top Trending Videos. Local dramas took the lead, with Ishq Murshid (Episode 20), Jaan Nisar (Episode 1), and Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum (Episode 1) securing the top three spots.

These dramas, known for their compelling narratives and cultural relevance, reaffirmed their role as the cornerstone of Pakistani entertainment.

South Indian blockbusters also made their mark, with Tiger Nageswara Rao and SKANDA earning significant traction among local audiences.

Action-packed films have become a staple in Pakistan’s cinematic diet, blending thrilling storylines with universal appeal.

Top 5 Trending Videos in Pakistan (2024):

Ishq Murshid — Episode 20
Jaan Nisar — Episode 1
Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum — Episode 1
Tiger Nageswara Rao (Full Movie)
Akhara — Episode 1

The Top Music Videos category celebrated diversity, blending local hits with Bollywood chart-toppers. Tracks like 90-90 Nabbe Nabbe by Gippy Grewal and Jasmine Sandlas, Aaj Ki Raat from the Bollywood film Stree 2, and Balo Batiyan by Ali Zafar and Atta Ullah Khan Esakhelvi secured the top spots.

This eclectic mix of Punjabi bangers, soulful ballads, and Bollywood anthems underscored the universal pull of music, bridging cultural and linguistic divides.

Top 5 Music Videos in Pakistan (2024):

1 90-90 Nabbe Nabbe — Gippy Grewal
Aaj Ki Raat — Stree 2
Balo Batiyan — Ali Zafar & Atta Ullah Khan Esakhelvi
Tauba Tauba — Bad Newz
Teri Baaton Mein — Shahid Kapoor & Kriti Sanon

YouTube’s Top Creators list highlighted a dynamic array of talents, from family vloggers to educational content creators. Channels like Rajab’s Family, Anaya Eshaal Family, and Arshad Reels captured millions of viewers with their relatable and inspiring content.

The platform has also become a lucrative business avenue for creators, with a 25 per cent increase in the number of individuals earning over Rs10 million annually. This growth underscores the platform's role in empowering creators to connect with audiences, build communities, and achieve financial success.

Top 5 Creators in Pakistan (2024):

Rajab’s Family
Anaya Eshaal Family
Arshad Reels
UR Cristiano
Ducky Bhai

Speaking on the occasion, Farhan Qureshi, Google’s Country Director for Pakistan, said, “Pakistani creators are captivating the world. Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibilities of AI to elevate content creation and foster deeper connections with viewers. With their talent and passion, the future of digital entertainment looks brighter than ever.”

This year, local creators uploaded 60 per cent more content than the previous year, a testament to the country's growing digital presence. Platforms like YouTube continue to serve as a springboard for creative talent, allowing individuals to transform their passion into global success stories.