Muslim Barbie

"Fulla" is the Islamic version of Barbie. Referred to as the "Muslim Barbie doll", the toy is a huge best seller all over the Middle East, with spinoffs such as breakfast cereal, chewing gum, and even bicycles.

Fast Facts

1. Creator: NewBoy Design Studio
2. Released: November, 2003
3. Height: 11.5 inches

History

Barbie dolls have been banned in areas of the Middle East because the values shown by Barbie do not align with Islamic values. However, young girls still wanted an adult fashion doll. Fulla was designed to give girls in the region a doll that represented Islamic values. Initial versions of the doll had black hair and brown eyes, but variants with lighter hair and eyes have been introduced.

Representing Islamic Values

Fulla dresses more modestly than Barbie; her shirts cover her shoulders and her skirts fall below her knees. In Saudi Arabia, Fulla dolls wear a veil, although they do not in other Middle Eastern countries. The dolls come with a prayer rug. Larger versions of the prayer rug are sold for girls who wish to emulate the Fulla doll. Fulla will not have a boyfriend, as that is considered inappropriate for Muslim girls.

Competition

Several other "Muslim Barbies" exist. They include:

1. Jamila, from Simba Toys
2. Saghira
3. Razanne

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