SHAH ALAM - A recent AI-generated video posted for the 52nd UAE National Day celebrations created a buzz globally, especially among Muslims.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum posted the visual on Instagram, garnering various reactions and sentiments from Muslims around the world.
The video depicted a helicopter soaring with a colossal UAE flag, ceremoniously unveiling two grand statues at the Dubai Police Headquarters.
The statues were of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, who Emiratis consider the founding fathers of the nation.
At the time the video was posted however, it was not yet revealed that the clip was AI-generated.
The video drew mixed reactions and the ire of Muslims, as Islam prohibits the act of building, carving or sculpting any type of idol, whether it is in human or animal form for the purpose of worship, remembrance or others.
The fatwa rules that this is because such practices have elements of shirk or resembling the practice during the times of jahiliyyah (where there was idol worship) and that the practice in itself is excessive and wasteful.
While there were some who were in awe of the spectacle and appreciated the unique celebration style, most Muslims expressed their disappointment and shock.
The comment section overflowed with diverse sentiments, from disbelief to outright dissatisfaction, prompting a wave of discussions among viewers worldwide.
Instagram user @rida_arif commented 'this is haram in Islam', while @blavkdemons commented 'who needs statues, give this money to orphaned Palestinians.' @lyana_catering commented 'keep the Al-Quran and Sunnah in our hearts, right now Saudi Arabia had adopted western cultures and values, don't make Saudi Arabia as a guidance to the Islamic faith.'
Many also commented 'free Palestine' underneath the video and advocated for more traditional festivities with Islamic values.
Others lauded the modern technological display but lamented a perceived lack of connection to cultural roots.
Nevertheless, the video's reach was undeniable, resonating deeply with Muslim communities globally and evoking conversations about the evolving nature of national commemorations in the digital age.