Latest news with #JacquelynMay
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Dubai Mall's dress code goes viral: Influencer's call for modesty earns Sheikh Hamdan's approval
A TikTok video of a Dubai-based influencer promoting modest dressing at Dubai Mall has sparked widespread praise, cultural reflection, and even royal recognition. Jacquelyn May, a Canadian content creator living in the UAE, posted a short video on May 28 showing herself in a traditional Emirati Jalabiya, urging visitors to dress respectfully in public spaces. The video, which received over one million views and was liked by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has since gone viral, stirring conversations about etiquette, cultural awareness, and the values that define Dubai's public spaces. Jacquelyn May's inspiration behind the viral dress code video Jacquelyn May was prompted to create the video after seeing a woman wearing revealing clothing at Dubai Mall's new "The District" area. Shocked by the attention the woman drew, May decided to respond with a light-hearted, culturally sensitive message reminding visitors to respect local customs. 'We live in Dubai and must respect its culture and customs,' she explained, noting that her intent was not to shame but to promote awareness in a humorous and positive tone. A citywide conversation across Dubai The video struck a chord not just with fellow expatriates but with Emiratis and long-time residents. Many social media users expressed gratitude that someone outside the local community took initiative on a subject often left unspoken. Comments like 'As an Emirati: thank you,' and 'Respect is the least we can offer as guests' flooded her post. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dermatologista recomenda: simples truque elimina o fungo facilmente Acabe com o Fungo Undo With Dubai Mall welcoming over 111 million visitors in 2024, the conversation has found resonance across diverse communities. Sheikh Hamdan's subtle endorsement The moment that amplified the video's reach came when Sheikh Hamdan himself liked the post. Known for his support of social initiatives and civic values, the Crown Prince's simple gesture was seen by many as validation of the message. For May, it was a surprising and humbling moment. 'I was completely shocked,' she said. 'It means a lot.' Not about restrictions, it's about respect May clarified that she wasn't promoting strict rules or conservative dress across all settings. 'You can wear a bikini to Kite Beach, it doesn't matter. But there's a time and place for everything,' she explained. Dubai, while cosmopolitan and inclusive, still places value on respectful conduct in public family-oriented venues like malls, parks, and mosques. Fashion with cultural integrity Rehma Mirza, a Dubai-based modest fashion stylist and sustainability advocate, supported May's message. 'Culture and styling aren't separate, they shape how we feel and how we carry ourselves,' she said. Mirza believes aligning fashion with cultural awareness helps young people stay grounded, especially in a world of fast-changing trends. The broader impact What began as a one-minute video has now become a touchstone for respectful tourism, civic pride, and cultural coexistence. In a diverse city like Dubai, where modernity meets tradition, May's message serves as a reminder that style and respect can go hand in hand, and sometimes, even go viral.
The National
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
'This is how you dress at Dubai Mall': Viral post sparks fashion etiquette debate
A viral post by Dubai content creator Jacquelyn May has sparked a discussion on modest fashion etiquette at Dubai Mall, one of the emirate's major tourist draws. The content creator, who uses the social media handle @jacquelynnmayy, shared a video on May 28 in which she is wearing a tradition Emirati Mukhawar dress and saying, 'you see how we show up to Dubai Mall? Very respectful, very put together". She continues by saying that the modest dress is 'not doing the most, just doing it right". She continues to say that this is Dubai Mall and not a 'Victoria's Secret fashion show". The post received widespread approval from Dubai residents, amassing more than 31 thousand likes, including one from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence. Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, and one of emirate's most visited spots by tourists and residents, has a list of rules for visitors on its premises and website. When it comes to clothing, Dubai Mall's website states: 'Kindly wear respectful clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered.' Social media users posted messages of agreement and encouragement under the video, with many thanking Jacquelyn for speaking up about the subject. One comment read, 'As an Emirati: Thank you and to others like you". Another comment read, 'Thank you for this awareness of respect to the tradition and religion of any country we live in". A third comment said, 'We always respect those who respect our cultures". A recent viral post by Egyptian artist and model Helena Shahin, in which she mentioned a Dubai Mall security guard told her to "wear a shirt", sparked dissenting opinions. One user commented, "I personally don't think you have to conform to another culture when you visit a new place as far as how you dress". Since its opening in 2008, Dubai Mall has attracted millions of visitors annually, offering a diverse range of attractions and experiences. In 2023, the mall welcomed a record 105 million visitors, marking a 19 per cent increase from the previous year.
