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Birthday celebration interrupted by falling debris
Stephanie Baker was marking her birthday with friends at a Palm Jumeirah bar when a drone fragment struck the Fairmont hotel across the street. The British real estate consultant, who moved to Dubai a year ago, described the moment as unexpected and frightening.
"We all were scared. To see something like that was unexpected," she said.
Despite two weeks of missile and drone strikes linked to the Iran conflict, Baker said she feels no urge to leave. "If anything, the way the situation has been handled makes me feel more secure," she added.
Dubai's expat-heavy population stands firm
The emirate is home to 240,000 Britons and millions of other expatriates, who make up 90% of the population. For decades, Dubai has marketed itself as a stable, tax-free haven in a volatile region, attracting professionals and investors with its skyline of glass towers and reputation for security.
That image is now under scrutiny. Since the attacks began, UAE authorities report intercepting 285 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,567 drones-over 90% destroyed before impact. Yet debris has landed near residential areas, luxury hotels, and Dubai International Airport, killing six and injuring 141.
Mixed reactions among residents
Interviews with over 20 residents revealed shock but little panic. Eti Bhasin, an Indian expat who has lived in Dubai her entire life, called the attacks a first but expressed confidence in authorities. "This is my home. We stand by it," she said.
Adam Callow, a British father of two who relocated in 2024, described a more anxious experience. His family slept in one room during the initial strikes, with children too afraid to sleep near windows. "The authorities are doing enough for us to stay, but we also feel unsettled," he said. "The concern is whether this becomes the new normal."
Economic ripple effects
Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international travel, handled 90 million passengers last year. Since the conflict began, thousands of flights have been canceled, though Emirates has resumed a reduced schedule. Hotels are slashing prices, with cancellations extending into May, according to Dr. Naim Maadad, CEO of Gates Hospitality.
"When the first quarter starts badly, the rest of the year becomes a race to catch up," Maadad said.
While tourists and professionals grapple with disruptions, many migrant workers-who comprise the bulk of the city's labor force-continue their routines. Hamza, a Pakistani delivery driver, noted a surge in orders as residents stayed indoors but said he couldn't afford to stop working. "My family back home depends on me," he explained.
Long-term outlook hinges on conflict's trajectory
Analysts warn the attacks could tarnish Dubai's brand as a safe oasis, though Christopher Davidson, a Middle East expert, argued the city's infrastructure and geography remain unchanged. "In the long term, its appeal will remain intact," he said.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has vowed to protect residents, while authorities have issued daily updates and mobile alerts. However, public criticism is rare in the UAE, where sharing unverified footage of the attacks can lead to fines or imprisonment. On Thursday, a 60-year-old British man was charged for allegedly filming Iranian missiles over the city.
An investment banker, speaking anonymously, warned that further escalation could spook businesses if financial institutions are targeted. On Wednesday, Iran threatened to strike economic interests tied to the U.S. and Israel after an Iranian bank was attacked, prompting some Dubai firms to evacuate offices.
Resilience as a defining trait
Despite the uncertainty, residents point to Dubai's history of rebounding from crises, including the 2008 financial crash and the 2020 pandemic. "Dubai always bounces back quickly," Maadad said. "Resilience is part of the UAE's DNA."
For now, streets are returning to normal, though caution lingers. Baker, the British expat, summed up the prevailing sentiment: "I still feel safer here than in many other places."
