Love Is Blind: Habibi

Many of the reviews for Love is Blind: Habibi begin with commenters claiming to understand the culture, only to then give it a low rating due to how they perceive the men's behavior or how they feel the women are being treated. While it's easy to apply a Western lens, it's essential to truly grasp the Middle Eastern cultural context before making such judgments.

Yes, the women in this series are strong, independent, and capable-there is no doubt about that. But understanding their strength within the framework of Middle Eastern culture is key. In these cultures, women often seek partners who deeply respect their faith, their families, and the traditions they uphold. It's a misconception to think that their independence is somehow diminished because they value a partner who respects the same beliefs. For example, respecting parental input in their romantic choices isn't about submission-it's about honoring family, a central pillar of many Middle Eastern households.

What many reviewers overlook is the importance of cultural norms embedded in the show, like placing God and family at the heart of decision-making. Unlike other Love is Blind versions where it's primarily about the individuals, Love is Blind: Habibi beautifully demonstrates how love is shaped by family blessings and faith. In many Western versions of the show, families meet the partners but don't hold much influence over the final decision. Here, we see how vital it is to secure not only personal compatibility but also the approval and blessings of loved ones-something deeply valued in Middle Eastern and Muslim cultures.

I personally found the series to be an excellent window into Middle Eastern and Muslim life, especially for viewers unfamiliar with the nuances of these traditions. Yes, some of the men have strong, culturally-rooted views that may not align with Western ideals. And yes, the women-who are fiercely independent-are looking for a partner who understands and respects their culture, values, and beliefs.

However, I give it a 9 out of 10 due to the language barrier issue throughout the series. Several different languages were spoken, including French, which caused confusion among some of the couples who didn't fully understand one another. I wish there had been stricter rules requiring participants to speak their native languages and English to avoid these misunderstandings.

That aside, Love is Blind means different things in different parts of the world. It's not just about individuals, but also about families, faith, and the values that hold them together. That's what makes Love is Blind: Habibi stand out. If you approach it with an open mind, you'll find a rich cultural experience that speaks volumes about love, family, and faith in the Middle Eastern world.

I have watched every episode there is of Love is blind, from every country. I thought it would be interesting to see how different this would be. I have to say, that I started with a 1 star rating, because some of the men made me furious. At the end, I could see that this show empowered women, and give it a 3 star.

I am disappointed in how shallow some of them are. How can you test if love is blind, if you start talking about how you look, your prefered look etc?

This seems to be just an ordinary dating show, without the sense of commitment, not like the other Love is blind I have watched.

And some of the men are so jealous, and competitive. You cannot claim a woman after a short date or two!(or any time) You are not there to get best friends, but to find a potential life partner. The conversations were mostly shallow, but what do I know, this might be a culture thing.

And what about getting better soundproofing, so that the men can shout in their quarters, without the ladies hearing them?

Some of the men seems to be very aggressive, want to own their woman and control her. Not good.

To be honest, this is not the best Love Is Blind Edition I've seen. I watched until the end because of the brand.

I can understand that cultures are different, but it still gives a very bad representation of what a woman is and should be. Between jealousy, egocentrism, support between men, some hatred between women, no real conversation or confrontation of ideas. The combination was not great.

Also, the modesty demonstrated by the couples is respectable, however it prevents the viewer from becoming attached to them and believing in their relationship. This is still understandable from a cultural perspective.

I still salute the very classy and extremely smart dancer as well as the fact that this edition brought a different tone and allowed us to know other traditions.

Unbelievable cultural differences in this version of Love Is Blind Habibi. Only saw 2 episodes so far ( so not considering this a spoiler but a precursor for a messy season to come) I predict the first couple matched won't last - we will see. Let's just say the man was way too controlling by moving way too fast making a "claim" on "his" woman to the "bros" that he has known for exactly 1 day (RED FLAG!) and telling them to cancel their date (if she picks them). Then the other guy who also likes her backs down out of "loyalty" to his bro? The whole concept goes down the tubes immediately - this is not about making friends or "loyal bros" but finding the best love connection. Which brings to the next point-the girl he claims clearly tells him she loves to dance from the beginning and he tells her "I don't like that" right from the get-go (RedFlag!). Then he moves fast and proposes (RED FLAG!), so she lets him know this and she succumbs to his pushing w/o insisting to see HER other date pick first! One note abt the show is that despite all the different regions and backgrounds, everyone speaks great English with no noticeable accents and whoever taught them did a great job.

This show is crazy. The men fly off the handle at the slightest sign of "disrespect" from "their" woman. Very controlling.

Most of the women are very conceited and self absorbed. The one called Noor is the worst. With her enhanced lips and crappy attitude it makes the show almost unwatchable. She touches her hair every damn second and I just can't with her.

I do like that they all stay in their own rooms and there is very little alcohol. That part is kind of refreshing. I'm only a few episodes in and will probably keep watching it only because it is like a train wreck and I just can't look away.