As the United States prepares for a potential federal ban on TikTok, set to take effect on Sunday, January 19, American expats and content creators in the UAE are expressing growing concerns about the impact on their livelihoods and online presence.
TikTok, a platform that has become essential for entertainment, business, and community engagement, has garnered millions of users worldwide, with 170 million Americans actively using the app.
For many, the potential shutdown would not only be a blow to personal enjoyment but also to their business operations, especially for creators and entrepreneurs who rely on TikTok’s vast reach for marketing, promotion, and sales.
Ava Johnson, a 29-year-old content creator based in Dubai, voiced her concerns, highlighting the significant financial repercussions that the ban could have on individuals and companies.
“This will affect a lot of people and companies, especially since many businesses and startups rely on the platform for advertising and even selling their products,” she said.
Ava emphasized the pivotal role TikTok has played in reshaping how businesses market themselves and grow their brand. “Losing that would be devastating,” she added.
The potential shutdown has prompted American expats and creators to seek alternative platforms. One such app that has emerged as a potential replacement is RedNote, a Chinese social media platform where “TikTok refugees” are finding new homes for their content and community engagement.
This migration reflects growing unease about the looming ban, especially as creators and businesses scramble to adjust their strategies.
Jake, a 26-year-old influencer, expressed his frustration, describing how TikTok’s rise during the pandemic had transformed it into more than just an entertainment tool.
“People use TikTok not just for entertainment but as a search engine and for discovering trends,” he explained. “It’s a virtual gathering place, and losing that connection feels like losing a part of my community.”
Jake’s concern highlights how deeply intertwined TikTok has become in shaping digital culture and the way individuals interact with online content.
While TikTok is not banned in the UAE, many influencers are anxious about the broader impact of the US ban. Mark Davis, an American expat who has lived in the UAE for over a decade, raised further concerns about the potential fallout.
“It’s a well-known fact that many people rely on TikTok for their livelihoods. If you’re not compensating those who depend on the platform, then not everything has been well thought out,” Mark said.
He believes that the ban could not only destabilize creators but also the businesses that support them. The controversy surrounding TikTok’s potential US shutdown is part of a larger political landscape.
With President-elect Donald Trump set to take office just one day after the ban is scheduled to take effect, there are speculations that he may issue an executive order to delay enforcement for up to 90 days. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate over the app’s future.
As the situation unfolds, many content creators and business owners are urging policymakers to reconsider the ban, stressing the economic and cultural importance of TikTok.
With its role in fostering creativity, connection, and economic opportunities, the platform has become a vital tool for many in the digital age—especially for those whose livelihoods depend on it.