This might be a controversial one, but I genuinely want your thoughts. I bought this jalebiya from the Abaya Mall in Mirdif the other day and a comment at the till made me stop and think. I have lived here for 20 years, I love the culture, I love the traditions, and I love wearing jalebiyas and abayas because they are beautiful and comfortable. But it made me ask myself, is this appreciation or is this cultural appropriation.

I do not think I am trying to be local or pretending to be something I am not. I simply enjoy embracing the culture of the place I call home. But I am really curious how this is seen, especially by locals from the GCC. Is it wrong, is it welcome, or does it depend on intention.

Let me know what you think, I am ready for the debate.