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UAE's viral AI doll Habubu to join Bigg Boss 19? A historic first for reality TV

UAE's viral AI doll Habubu to join Bigg Boss 19? A historic first for reality TV

Time of India2 days ago
UAE's AI doll Habubu may become Bigg Boss 19's first-ever non-human contestant. (Photo : File)
Bigg Boss 19 is gearing up for a sensational return this August 2025, and it looks like the show is about to make television history with a bold and futuristic twist. A latest report by India Forums suggests that UAE's first interactive AI robot doll, Habubu, will be entering the Bigg Boss house as one of the 17 contestants, marking the first time a non-human has joined the reality franchise.
This surprising move has sparked global curiosity, especially across the UAE where Habubu has already become a viral phenomenon.
Who is Habubu and Why is the UAE Talking About Her?
Habubu is not your average robot. Designed as an interactive AI doll, she's built with state-of-the-art conversational intelligence, emotional recognition, and basic domestic functionality. According to IFCM, the UAE-based company behind her, Habubu can speak up to seven languages, including Hindi, which gives her an edge in a show like Bigg Boss that thrives on communication and drama.
What truly sets Habubu apart is her appearance and charm. With large expressive eyes, a warm and engaging personality, and dressed in traditional Arabic attire, she has captured attention across social media platforms. Her growing fan base in the Gulf sees her as more than just a tech novelty, she's being celebrated as a cultural bridge between the Arab world and mainstream South Asian entertainment.
Notably, IFCM, which also managed former Bigg Boss contestant Abdu Rozik, is handling Habubu's participation.
This strategic backing adds credibility to the reports and indicates the move is well-planned, not a publicity stunt.
A New Era for Bigg Boss: AI Enters the Game
Bigg Boss, hosted once again by
Salman Khan
, is known for reinventing itself each season. But Season 19's theme, reportedly titled "Rewind", suggests a nostalgic return to classic rules, legendary tasks, and dramatic moments from past editions. Within this context, the inclusion of an AI contestant like Habubu stands out as both retro and futuristic, a combination sure to intrigue audiences.
As reported by Siasat, Habubu is expected to be specially reprogrammed for the show to ensure a balanced dynamic among the 17 expected contestants, 16 human and one AI. This means she will not overshadow her co-contestants but instead enhance the show's entertainment quotient in unique ways. Her multilingual abilities and AI-driven emotional responses could make her a central figure in house dynamics.
Why This Matters for the UAE
For UAE residents and tech enthusiasts, Habubu's participation is more than just reality TV news, it's a significant cultural moment.
It showcases homegrown innovation on one of the biggest entertainment platforms in South Asia, watched by millions across India, the Middle East, and beyond.
Her entry into Bigg Boss also aligns with the UAE's vision to be a global leader in AI and smart technologies. With Dubai and Abu Dhabi already hosting several robotics and AI expos annually, Habubu's rise reflects how far the nation has come in integrating tech with everyday life and now, with global pop culture.
As interest surges, fans in the UAE are keenly watching how this historic experiment unfolds. Will Habubu win hearts or even the trophy? One thing's certain: this season of Bigg Boss is set to spark conversations far beyond the walls of the house.
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