Luisa Zissman says ‘everything seems fine’ in Dubai before sharing plans to come back to the UK – while Ant Middleton reveals he is flying back IN on a near empty flight as stars share updates amid escalating conflict
Luisa Zissman says ‘everything seems fine’ in Dubai before sharing plans to return to the UK – Ant Middleton’s near-empty flight highlights tensions amid escalating conflict
Luisa Zissman recently posted an update from Dubai, asserting that ‘everything is fine’ as she walked her dog on Wednesday. The former Apprentice contestant, who moved to the UAE several years ago for its tax-free lifestyle and sunny climate, has joined a growing list of celebrities seeking refuge in the Gulf nation. However, the situation there has sparked divided opinions among those currently stationed in the emirate.
While some public figures have expressed confidence in Dubai’s safety, others have voiced concerns about the recent missile strikes. Luisa, in particular, hinted at her own apprehensions, stating she was ‘worried’ about her ability to return to the UK for work. ‘The situation here seems to be fine to be honest,’ she noted in a video shared with her followers, ‘the children have broken up one week early from school.’ She added that her goal was to ‘see my parents too’ while bringing her kids back with her.
‘So grateful for a beautiful February in Doha & Dubai, such special memories were made. We ended up catching the last flight back to London before the airspace closed, booking it just hours before it just hours before without even realising. Crazy how timing works sometimes. Thinking of everyone who’s been affected and sending so much love.’
Meanwhile, Ant Middleton made headlines as he returned to Dubai on a nearly empty plane, a stark contrast to the usual bustling traffic. The 45-year-old military veteran, who has five children with his wife Emilie, shared snapshots of his journey, including a selfie in an airport lounge. His post included an image of the sparse aircraft, underscoring that he was one of few attempting to re-enter the emirate. ‘Landed! Back in Dubai with Emilie and the kids,’ he later announced, signaling a successful return.
Yasmine Zweegers, a MIC star, revealed she had escaped the turmoil by departing Dubai days before the Iranian airstrikes began. The 26-year-old had been in the UAE supporting her pro-tennis boyfriend, Julian Cash, who competed in the Qatar Open. Julian, alongside fellow Brit Lloyd Glasspool, had been top seeds in the doubles event but were defeated in the final. Yasmine’s account of narrowly avoiding the crisis added to the mixed narratives circulating online.
Dubai expats have flooded social media with messages declaring the country as the ‘safest place on Earth,’ despite ongoing disruptions. Families are reportedly paying up to £100,000 for private jets to evacuate, reflecting the urgency of the situation. Yet, behind these optimistic posts lies a more anxious reality, with influencers fearing consequences for openly expressing fears of deportation, imprisonment, or home loss.
The UAE government has maintained that its air defenses are effectively countering incoming threats, but the Daily Mail reports that this confidence is not universally shared. As the conflict intensifies, even those who once celebrated the region’s stability are now quietly assessing the risks of staying or leaving. Luisa’s walk with her dog and Ant’s return flight serve as microcosms of this broader uncertainty, with both seeking reassurance in their respective ways.
