Sarina Kalantari, a specialist in Dubai's real estate industry, has ignited a heated debate on social media by sharing a video that portrays a seemingly normal day in the emirate, even as many expats and holidaymakers flee due to escalating Middle East conflicts. In the clip, recorded near the iconic Burj Khalifa building, she is seen casually sipping coffee while dismissing concerns about safety, stating, "sorry, not sorry" to critics.
Contrasting Views on Dubai's Safety Amid Regional Tensions
The video comes in the wake of Iranian attacks on the United Arab Emirates, which have led to strikes at Dubai International Airport and prompted a wave of evacuations. Scores of British nationals, including influencers, have returned home, facing backlash online with calls for them to pay more income tax upon arrival in the UK. However, Kalantari's content presents a starkly different narrative, aiming to allay fears by highlighting the absence of visible missiles and the continuation of daily routines.
Social Media Reactions and Criticisms
On TikTok, users were quick to question Kalantari's motives, with many accusing her of acting desperately to protect her real estate investments in Dubai. One commenter speculated, "She is trying to save her Dubai real estate business," while another noted, "Everybody in Dubai's out here on TikTok trying so hard to protect their investment. Stay safe!" A third user criticized the broader trend, saying, "Dubai, the only city in the world where creators need to desperately market the city/country to convince people to live there."
Others expressed concern for public safety, with one TikTok user urging, "The government is urging people to stay indoors. Listen to them!" This highlights the tension between personal portrayals of normalcy and official advisories, as the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office currently advises against all but essential travel to the UAE due to recent incidents.
Evacuation Efforts and Flight Operations
Despite the conflicting narratives, evacuation efforts continue. Dubai is home to approximately a quarter of a million British expats, and the city remains a key transport hub between Asia and Europe, now on high alert. On March 3, 2026, Emirates planned to operate two flights from Dubai International Airport to Heathrow, and one each to Gatwick and Manchester, with some flights utilizing A380 jets capable of carrying up to 615 passengers. Etihad Airways also scheduled a flight from Abu Dhabi to Heathrow using a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner with 336 seats.
These operations underscore the ongoing volatility in the region, even as influencers like Kalantari insist that life in Dubai remains unchanged. The debate raises broader questions about the role of social media in shaping perceptions during crises, balancing personal experiences with official warnings and the economic pressures faced by those with vested interests in the emirate's stability.
