Tattoo Inspo From the Middle East

Tattoos used to be a very rare sight in the Arab World for several reasons, however, they are now becoming more mainstream than ever; with tattoo parlors opening everywhere, and with the increase of the number of inked individuals.

A tattoo is a commitment and something that you’ll have on your body for the rest of your life. The more customized and personal the tattoo you’re get, the easier it is for you to love it and commit to it forever. Thus, it’s always best to think carefully about the idea of the tattoo before getting inked and to find something that you identify yourself with. I’ll try to compile some tattoo ideas that are related to the Arab World, from calligraphy, mythologies, iconic places and figures, and Arab pop culture.

Anubis

In ancient Egyptian Mythology, Anubis is the protector of the gates to the Underworld, Osiris replaced him as the god of the dead. He looks like a man with the head of a jackal.

Tanoura

The Tanoura refers to the Egyptian folk dance, and to the costume worn by the Tanoura artist! It’s very authentic, colorful, and has a deep and spiritual meaning behind it.

Camel

Probably the most Arabic animal in the entire world could be the camel! People tend to get tattoos of their spirit animals because they’re cute and very costumizeable, and nothing identifies someone from the Arab World more than the camel.

Ankh

The ankh is an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol that was most commonly used in writing and in art to represent the word for “life”.

Arabian Horse

Arabian Horses are known to be the best in the whole world! Arabs, especially in the Arabian Gulf are obsessed with horses; whether riding them, breeding them, or watching them race.

Eye of Horus

The Eye of Horus is an ancient Egyptian symbol of protection, royal power, and good health. It is also known as wadjet, wedjat or udjat.

Falcon

Another animal that is associated with the Arabic culture is the falcon. Falcon breeding is huge in the Arabian Gulf, and Arabs respect and admire the strong animal.

Giza Pyramids

The Great Pyramids of Giza are the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact.

Oud

The most authentic musical instrument in the Arab World is definitely the Oud. If you’re super passionate about oriental music then this might be one of your options.

WE SAID THIS: If you’re about to get your first tattoo, make sure to do your research on the design, the artist, and the after-care.