TikTok trends come and go but recently we saw a trend surface that caused quite a stir in the Middle East, specifically by UAE-based TikTok content creators. The trend in question is a transition on the song ‘Arabian Nights’ that was originally featured in the Disney movie ‘Aladdin’.
@itsalwardi Had to participate 🥷 🏜 #arabiannights #fyp ♬ original sound – ⚘「𝕸𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖅𝖊𝖐𝖐𝖊𝖓」❤
The TikTok trend seems fairly normal so why is it drawing so much attention?
Well in this TikTok trend, the transition goes from wearing casual “western” clothing into oriental garments which emulate the traditional dress code of the Middle East, as seen by Jordanian and UAE-based influencer Raghad Fahmi and many more. Communities around the Middle East took to TikTok to pay homage to their cultural roots by showcasing various dress codes from each region. What really draws attention to ‘Arabian Nights’ is the trend’s initial start of low pixelated video quality in average daily wear into high definition that displays either a compilation of Arabic sports, landscapes, and cuisine with the focus being placed around the approach to dressing.
Many people questioned why their culture is being used as a fashion statement for a trend rather than being appreciated and respected, maybe because of the accompanied “western song” of Arabian Nights and the reemergent controversy of Western actors voicing Arabic characters. But we can’t help but wonder if you delve into the deeper meaning behind the codes and values of Middle Eastern dressing that it’s sending a message to the Western world. Some individuals in the region even questioned if this should be considered culturally appropriate.
So what are UAE influencers doing differently?
Unlike all the other regions, UAE creatives added their own twist to the TikTok trend by focusing on the country’s strong international reputation for Arabic makeup styles and the rich and vibrant lifestyle atmosphere that’s adorned by so many in the West.
@itsragoode مرة تانية عالطريقة الأردنية 🫡🇯🇴 #arabiannights #fyp ♬ original sound – paolassecrett
@omr94 A real one! 🐎 #arabiannights ♬ original sound – ⚘「𝕸𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖅𝖊𝖐𝖐𝖊𝖓」❤
How UAE creatives are approaching and adapting the trend is really what makes it unique and different, as they strongly bridge culture and tradition with modernity and up-to-date modernity in the form of beauty trends. Contrary to controversial criticism of cultural appropriation, creators in the UAE send a strong international message of patriotism, respect, and admiration for their roots in the West.
Comment below and let us know what you think of this new trend and different ways to make it unique.
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