Indian actor Sunny Deol’s upcoming film Border 2 has failed to secure clearance for theatrical release in several Gulf countries, Indian media reported on Wednesday.
The film was scheduled for a worldwide cinema release on January 23, 2026. However, authorities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates did not grant permission for screening before its debut.
The decision follows a recent pattern involving Indian war-themed films. Earlier, actor Ranveer Singh’s film Dhaakad also failed to receive approval for release in Gulf cinemas.
Despite the restriction, audience interest inside India remained strong. Advance bookings opened three days before release and showed steady momentum. By the afternoon of January 22, cinemas had sold nearly 60,000 tickets across major theatre chains nationwide.
#BREAKING
Border 2 faces ban in the Gulf!
Sunny Deol’s Border 2 may hit a major roadblock in overseas markets even before release
Reports suggest the film is unlikely to get clearance in several Gulf countries including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE… pic.twitter.com/L4EH89TlpW
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) January 22, 2026Industry analysts say the Gulf ban may affect the film’s overall international earnings. Border 2 marks the first major Indian theatrical release of the year, a factor that often boosts overseas box office performance.
The film draws its storyline from the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War. Promotional material highlights intense battle sequences and features Sunny Deol delivering high-energy war slogans, a style closely associated with his past performances.
Border 2 faces BAN in Gulf countries after Dhurandhar, Gadar 2: Is this trend hurting the Indian film industry?https://t.co/l2YR89l7d3 pic.twitter.com/7PMgTjTOaK
— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 22, 2026However, early reactions from critics and trade observers have raised concerns over the film’s technical execution. Several reports point to weak visual effects, which may impact audience reception beyond its patriotic appeal.
Alongside Deol, the film stars Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ehan Bhat. Producers have confirmed that the domestic and international release outside the Gulf will proceed as planned on January 23. No official reason has been issued by Gulf authorities regarding the ban.
