Across the globe, TikTok creators are reshaping culture, setting trends, and making a lasting impact—both on and off the platform. The MENA region is no exception. This year, TikTok proudly unveils The Discover List 2025, spotlighting 50 global “Creators to Watch” across five dynamic categories: Educators, Foodies, Icons, Innovators, and Originators. With five standout creators from MENA making the list, TikTok continues its commitment to empowering and amplifying regional talent, providing them with the tools they need to grow their presence and engage meaningfully with their communities.
From mouthwatering culinary explorations to heartwarming family moments, the MENA creators featured in The Discover List 2025 are igniting trends and captivating audiences worldwide. Whether it’s @amrelhady_, whose food adventures across Egypt are setting #FoodTok ablaze, or @aqeeelstar, who shares charming glimpses into his family life, these honorees are redefining content creation in innovative ways.
“At TikTok, we take every opportunity to celebrate our creators and the vibrant communities they’ve built,” said Kinda Ibrahim, Regional GM, Operations at TikTok METAP, Central and South Asia. “Seeing regional talent recognized across all five categories of The Discover List 2025 is truly exciting. From educators expanding minds to icons shaping pop culture, TikTok remains a safe and inspiring space for creators to thrive. We are dedicated to fostering this environment and supporting our diverse creator community across the region and beyond.”
Want to learn more about this year’s honorees? Explore The Discover List 2025 Lookbook for in-depth creator bios, exclusive photos, and personal insights from the stars themselves!
Educational creators are at the forefront of TikTok’s mission to make learning engaging and accessible. Whether teaching languages, unpacking historical wonders, or exploring new technology, these creators ignite curiosity. Saudi Arabia’s @fahadacademy earns a well-deserved spot on the list for his commitment to helping audiences improve their spoken English through clear, concise, and impactful videos.
Foodies are revolutionizing the way we discover and experience flavors, bringing culinary delights straight to our screens. Egypt’s @amrelhady_ has spent the past year uncovering Cairo’s hidden food gems, captivating nearly two million followers with his enticing finds and delicious recommendations. His passion for food has turned him into a must-follow on #FoodTok.
Icons don’t just follow trends—they create them. These creators are household names on and off TikTok, setting the standard for digital influence. Kuwait’s @aqeeelstar has built a thriving community of over three million fans, sharing wholesome and entertaining family moments that resonate across the region.
TikTok’s innovators redefine what it means to be a content creator, constantly experimenting and pushing creative boundaries. MENA boasts not one but two innovators on this year’s list: @tahertravels and @ibnhattuta. These travel enthusiasts have taken followers on breathtaking journeys across continents, offering fresh perspectives and adventurous storytelling that redefine travel content.
Originators are the heartbeat of TikTok, shaping the sounds and styles that define the year. From viral dance challenges to original music, these creators set the stage for global trends, ensuring that TikTok remains at the forefront of entertainment and culture.
TikTok’s The Discover List 2025 is more than just a list—it’s a testament to the platform’s thriving global creative community. The selection process was community-driven, with nominations coming from TikTok’s global teams. Creators were evaluated based on their influence both on and off the platform over the past six months. Key metrics included content virality, audience engagement, account growth, and the ability to spark global conversations.
With over one billion users engaging with content that entertains, educates, and inspires, TikTok remains the ultimate launchpad for creators to share their unique voices. As The Discover List 2025 highlights, the future of content creation is bold, boundary-breaking, and undeniably exciting.
Stay tuned—these rising stars are just getting started!
