"Authenticity and relatability are what make social media meaningful. The more genuine I am, the more I can resonate with my audience"
1. What sparked your passion for creating content, and how did it shape your journey?
I've always had a love for performing, whether it was acting out movie scenes in front of the mirror or hosting college events. But content creation came into my life unexpectedly. After moving to Dubai and job hunting, I posted a funny, trending reel on a whim. The response was overwhelming, and I quickly realized how much I enjoyed the entire process—from recording to editing to sharing something I had created. That rush was addictive, and I wanted to experience it again. It just felt right, and that's how my journey began.
2. If your content were a "day in Dubai," what three unexpected stops would define it?
First, I'd head to a hidden vintage market. It reflects my unique style, blending the modern with nostalgic charm, just like my mix of fashion and humor. Next, I’d visit a quiet beach cove in JBR at sunset—this represents the authentic and introspective side of my content, capturing both the polished and raw parts of life. Finally, I’d stop by an artisanal coffee shop in Alserkal Avenue—an artistic hub that represents my community-focused, collaborative spirit. It's a place to soak up inspiration and connect with interesting people.
3. How do you balance the “life in general” theme with moments of vulnerability, and what do you hope your followers feel from it?
Coming from a middle-class background, I want to show that life in Dubai isn’t all about luxury and glamour. Not everyone lives in fancy neighborhoods or dines at high-end restaurants every weekend. My life is simple, with ups and downs just like anyone else’s. I want my followers to see that and feel connected. Authenticity and relatability are what make social media meaningful. The more genuine I am, the more I can resonate with my audience.
4. Was there a post or story that had an unexpected response, and how did it affect your view on digital creation?
The first reel I posted that hit a million views was totally unexpected. At the time, I had less than 6k followers. The reel was a simple, humorous take on "who my husband thought he was marrying vs. who he actually married." The response was huge, and it made me realize there’s an audience for all types of content. That moment gave me a boost and reaffirmed that humor has a place in this space, inspiring me to keep creating and stay true to myself.
5. How does Dubai influence your creativity and sense of style?
Dubai has been instrumental in building my confidence. It's a city that embraces individuality and lets you be yourself. I’ve never felt that freedom anywhere else. My style mirrors this vibe—fashion is about comfort for me. When you're comfortable in your clothes, confidence comes naturally, and Dubai has definitely helped me feel at ease with expressing myself.
6. Do you have a "content creation philosophy" you live by, especially in a curated space?
As cliché as it sounds, my philosophy is simple: just be myself. Audiences can tell when something is staged or forced. Trying to be someone you’re not is exhausting, and authenticity is always the easier route in the long run. Being genuine is key, and it’s what keeps me grounded and connected with my audience.
7. If you could invent a new emoji to represent your digital life, what would it look like and why?
I’d create an emoji with wide eyes, a mini tripod in one hand, and a sprinkle of sparkle in the other. It's a symbol of excitement, creativity, and always being ready to capture the perfect shot. This emoji represents me—excited, glam, and constantly on the move to bring fresh content to my feed.
8. How do you stay versatile with your content without losing that sense of “you”?
What you see in my reels is exactly who I am in real life—candid, human, and a bit messy. I don’t overthink it. My followers know they’re getting the real me, and that genuine connection is what matters most. Staying true to myself allows me to experiment with different types of content without losing my essence.
9. What’s an unconventional source of inspiration that keeps your creativity alive?
I draw inspiration from everyday moments—the small, quirky details of life that people often overlook. Whether it’s a random conversation, a chance encounter, or a simple observation, these moments fuel my ideas. I find that authenticity resonates the most with people, so I’m always on the lookout for raw, relatable experiences that everyone can connect with.
10. How do you define your relationship with your followers, and what boundaries do you set to keep it authentic?
I have a great relationship with my followers. They’re always honest about what they enjoy, and I appreciate that feedback. I spend 1–2 hours each day responding to comments and DMs, which is honestly the highlight of my day. But I also make sure to set boundaries. If anyone crosses a line or leaves negative comments, I’m quick to block them. Maintaining a positive, authentic space is crucial for me and my community.
Bio:
Fatema is a Dubai-based content creator known for her authentic and relatable approach to life, fashion, and humor. With a passion for performing that started in school and evolved through hosting college events, she stumbled into content creation while job hunting in Dubai. What started as a fun, spontaneous reel quickly became a gateway to a creative journey that blends candid moments with sharp humor.
Her content reflects the vibrant yet grounded side of Dubai, capturing everything from hidden vintage markets and quiet beach sunsets to creative hubs like Alserkal Avenue. With a focus on authenticity, she connects deeply with her audience, offering a real, unfiltered look at life beyond the city’s glamorous image.
Whether she's sharing personal moments or making her followers laugh with relatable content, her mission is clear: to be herself and encourage others to do the same. Comfortable in her own skin and confident in her style, Fatema has built a community where creativity, collaboration, and genuine connection come first.
Interviewed by: Insiya
Edited by: Mishika Goel
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