Imagine children dressed in colorful costumes going door-to-door shouting "Trick or treat!" in traditionally conservative Middle Eastern countries. This scene, once unthinkable, has become reality as Halloween gains surprising popularity across the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
From "Pagan Festival" to Mainstream Celebration
Few realize that public Halloween celebrations were only permitted in Saudi Arabia in 2021. In just three years, the holiday has become an important cultural "micro-moment" and marks the beginning of a three-month shopping season culminating in "White Friday." Data shows Halloween-related searches surged by 40% year-over-year in 2021, with malls and supermarkets prominently displaying themed decorations and pumpkins.
Costume Culture: A Creative Explosion
The essence of Halloween lies in creative costumes. Searches related to costumes and creative ideas grew 50% year-over-year, with a remarkable 60% monthly increase. The 2021 releases of Cruella and Squid Game drove costume trends, with searches for "Squid Game costumes" and "Cruella costumes" skyrocketing by 900% and 215% respectively.
Traditional costumes remain popular, with "witch costume" and "pirate costume" searches increasing by 85% and 70%. More surprisingly, interest in "Halloween makeup" surged 365%, while "Halloween dresses" saw 125% growth. Children have joined the festivities enthusiastically, with "kids' costumes" searches up 135% year-over-year.
The Sweet Spot: Candy Dominates
No Halloween would be complete without candy. Overall candy searches in the Middle East jumped 205%, while "Halloween candy" specific searches grew 165%. American classic "candy corn" gained 150% more interest.
Regional preferences emerged clearly: Saudi Arabians searched for "chocolate" 11 times more than generic "candy," while in the UAE the ratio was 2:1, demonstrating Saudis' deep-rooted love for chocolate.
DIY Spirit: Homemade Halloween Treats
Beyond shopping, many embraced homemade Halloween foods. YouTube searches for "pumpkin cake" increased by 115%, showing growing interest in holiday baking.
Setting the Scene: Decorations Create Atmosphere
Halloween decorations proved essential for creating the right mood. "Halloween party" searches rose 80%, while "Halloween decorations" skyrocketed 245%. Even "pumpkin carving" gained remarkable popularity with 255% search growth.
"Trick or Treat": The Soul of Halloween
The quintessential Halloween phrase "trick or treat" saw 110% more searches. Families now decorate their homes to welcome friends and relatives, collectively enjoying the holiday spirit. Halloween's Middle Eastern emergence represents not just cultural fusion but lifestyle evolution - bringing joy, creativity, and self-expression. Perhaps soon, Halloween will become an established tradition across the region.