Former Apprentice star Luisa Zissman has revealed the terrifying experience of being caught in Dubai during Iranian missile strikes over the weekend, forcing her to shelter in a basement with her two young daughters. The businesswoman, who was runner-up in the ninth series of the BBC reality show, described the situation as "surreal and scary" as explosions rocked the city.
Celebrities Caught in Crossfire
Zissman is among several British celebrities who found themselves in Dubai when Iran launched retaliatory strikes following a joint US-Israeli attack on Tehran. The United Arab Emirates, a popular holiday destination and home to many influencers, became a target in the escalating Middle East conflict.
Basement Shelter with Children
The 38-year-old podcaster, who has relocated to Dubai with daughters Indigo Esme, nine, and Clementine, seven, documented her experience on Instagram. "We got itchy feet and went to take them to the park and literally as we went to step foot out the door we heard two massive explosions that shook the house," Zissman explained. "We retreated and then heard another two. So now movie time in the basement."
Before heading to their basement shelter, Zissman attempted to keep her children calm by baking bread rolls together. "Home baked bread rolls. Keeping the kids entertained and indoors," she captioned one Instagram post showing their baking efforts.
Dubai Under Attack
Black smoke billowed across Dubai's skyline as explosions were heard in several cities across the Gulf region. Zissman recorded videos from her garden showing fighter planes overhead attempting to intercept incoming missiles. "I don't know if you can hear it but there's a fighter plane going above me which might mean you might hear a bang in a minute," she told followers. "They're so good at, like, intercepting the missiles."
The businesswoman questioned Iran's resources during the attack, stating: "Apparently the USA has spent 1.6 billion last night alone intercepting. I mean surely Iran's going to run out soon. How much money have they got? The UAE has to have more. I mean, it's like the safest country in the world."
Other Celebrities Affected
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Vicky Pattison was also in Dubai during the attacks, enjoying a holiday with her husband Ercan Ramadan. The I'm A Celebrity winner found herself stranded as flights were cancelled amid the escalating tensions.
"We are receiving a lot of messages from people asking if we're ok which we are," Pattison wrote on Instagram. "We are currently in our hotel and have been assured we're safe. We are aware that the situation that is unfolding is scary and I'm also aware that there's a lot of videos circulating on social media which are understandably concerning."
Singer Jamilia's Reassurance
Singer Jamilia also took to social media to reassure followers about her safety. "I understand how this looks from the outside, but we do feel safe and well informed," she wrote on her Instagram Story. "The internet can be a scary place at times like this but I can assure you our reality is far from fear and upset."
Petra Ecclestone's Perspective
Billionaire heiress Petra Ecclestone, who moved to Dubai with her husband Sam Palmer after fleeing their £31 million Los Angeles mansion due to gun crime concerns, shared her perspective on the attacks. "We fled one place searching for peace, and last night reminded us how fragile that feeling of safety can be," she stated. "It was terrifying. But we are safe, we are together, and we are holding our kids extra close today. Grateful beyond words."
Escalating Regional Tensions
The missile strikes represent a significant escalation in regional tensions, with Dubai experiencing direct attacks that have shaken residents and visitors alike. Love Island star Arabella Chi, who was in Dubai with her daughter Gigi, posted "Dubai friends. Scary times. Stay safe" just hours before the strikes began.
Zissman expressed faith in UAE defense systems despite the frightening experience. "So surreal and scary," she reflected. "I do have faith that UAE defence will keep us all safe." Her eldest daughter Dixie, 15, remains in the UK with her ex-husband Olivier Zissman until she finishes school, avoiding the direct impact of the Middle East conflict.
