Since the outbreak of the US-Israeli war with Iran in February, influencers and reality television stars have utilized their platforms to affirm the safety of Dubai, even as regional chaos deepens. When hostilities commenced, UAE authorities dispatched mass text messages to hundreds of thousands of Western residents, issuing stern warnings against posting any content that might incite public panic regarding the aerial attacks. Consequently, discerning the genuine sentiments of the hundreds of influencers residing there about the ongoing conflict has become challenging. However, in recent weeks, a significant number have hastily departed the emirate to ensure their continued safety.
Initial Assurances and Subsequent Departures
Despite public declarations of confidence in the Dubai government's protective measures, many celebrities have opted to return to the United Kingdom. The allure of tax-free salaries and a historically low crime rate is no longer sufficient to maintain Dubai's reputation as a secure haven. The critical question arises: amid the persistent conflict, who has fled Dubai, and who continues to insist that 'everything is fine'?
Notable Departures
Rio and Kate Ferdinand returned to the UK this month after relocating to Dubai last summer. The former footballer needed to be in London to film his podcast, Rio Ferdinand Presents, while Kate desired to spend Mother's Day with family. The couple moved with Rio's daughter Tia, 13, and their two young children, though his two eldest sons remained in Britain. Kate initially expressed missing home and struggling with the family separation but later praised Dubai's calming energy during Ramadan and the cultural education it provides her children.
Luisa Zissman, the former Apprentice star and vocal supporter of the Dubai government, revealed she returned to the UK for work with her children. During the crisis, she assured followers she was in the 'safest country in the world' before traveling back to her £8 million Hertfordshire mansion. She later disclosed her dog was stranded in Dubai after a cancelled flight, despite her earlier safety assurances.
Laura Anderson, 36, shared that she was 'praying for safe skies' after securing a flight to Edinburgh from Dubai. The former Love Island star had only recently arrived to visit her sister. She expressed gratitude to the UAE government for protection but has since returned to Scotland with her daughter.
Sam Gowland, 30, managed to leave on his fourth attempt, flying first class to Mauritius. He thanked the UAE government for their protective efforts, despite earlier flight cancellations amid missile strikes.
Petra Ecclestone and her husband Sam Palmer left Dubai via business class on March 6, though she insisted the departure was not an 'escape' but rather to attend her daughter's horse show in Europe. She later reflected on feeling safe in Dubai despite initial fears.
Sophia Peschisolido, daughter of Karren Brady, relocated to Dubai in 2021 but has since returned to London following the conflict's outbreak.
Lindsay Lohan assured followers of her safety in Dubai before returning to the United States last week, where she was spotted in New York with her family.
Taylor Ward, initially claiming missile strikes were 'in the past', recently fled to France's Courchevel ski resort with her daughter.
Those Who Remain
HSTikkyTokky (Harrison Sullivan) insists all is well in Dubai, dismissing online reports as misinformation and encouraging others to visit, claiming no bombs have impacted the city.
Jamelia relocated to Dubai in March 2024 for a fresh start and has praised the UAE's commitment to safety during the strikes, emphasizing her gratitude as a mother of four.
Arabella Chi continues her daily life in Dubai, posting content from beach outings and romantic evenings, making no mention of the unrest.
Amir Khan moved to Dubai in 2022 after a robbery in the UK and has not publicly commented on the current crisis, though his wife Faryal shared reassuring messages online.
Kady McDermott has condemned those abandoning pets while fleeing, stating she would stay through a war zone for her dogs.
Hofit Golan described initial terror during the attacks but later asserted Dubai still feels safe, contrasting it with a friend's robbery in London.
Official Advisories and Insurance Implications
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office currently advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates. Traveling against this advice may invalidate insurance policies, adding a layer of risk for those considering movement.
Katie Price's Controversial Return
Katie Price bragged about having an entire plane cabin to herself while flying to Dubai to reunite with husband Lee Andrews, amid whispers he is banned from leaving the UAE. Lee maintains he feels safe and has no plans to depart, despite allegations of past legal issues.
The dichotomy between public assurances of safety and private actions underscores the complex reality for expatriates in Dubai. While some influencers steadfastly promote the emirate's security, the exodus of others reveals underlying apprehensions as the regional conflict persists. The situation remains fluid, with personal safety and professional commitments influencing each celebrity's decision to stay or flee.
