The main reason why human figures are not represented in Arabesque art is because Islamic tradition sees this as a form of idolatry. Idolatry is to value something, in this case human figures, that hinders the love and trust of God. Creating a human figure, even that of the prophet Muhammad, tempts idolatry of the artist and those who view the artwork.
The other reason why human figures are not represented in Arabesque art is the idea that the artist, trying to create a realistic image, is competing with Allah, the Arab word for "God," and his creation. Allah is the one and only creator in the Islamic faith. Any attempts to recreate the natural world infringes on Allah.
Arabesque art is not limited to excluding humans from all works of art but extends to animals and anything from the natural world. Arabesque art does use plants and flowers, however. The plants are extraordinary as the vines branch off and create repeating patterns. These plants are not considered realistic since the plant is never ending and represents the feminine nature of life-giving.
Arabesque art can be considered both art and science combining precise mathematical geometric patterns, aesthetically pleasing and symbolic. Both the science and artistic expressions held within Arabesque art are considered to derive from Allah and are reflections of his will expressed through his creation, man.