Luisa Zissman Insists Dubai Is Safer Than UK During Missile Attacks
Former Apprentice contestant Luisa Zissman has declared that Dubai is still safer than the United Kingdom, even as she and her family take refuge in their basement during ongoing Iranian missile strikes across the Middle East. The 38-year-old mother of three relocated to Dubai last December, citing a desire for enhanced personal security, but now finds herself amidst regional turmoil that has trapped hundreds of thousands of British holidaymakers, transit passengers, and expatriates.
Sheltering in Place as Attacks Intensify
Zissman shared on social media that her family retreated to their basement after hearing "two massive bangs" that shook their home, forcing them to abandon plans to visit a local park. "Keeping the kids entertained and indoors," she wrote, explaining they opted for movie time underground. Despite the frightening situation, she expressed confidence in the UAE's defence capabilities, stating, "I do have faith that UAE defence will keep us all safe."
In response to queries about whether Dubai still feels safer than the UK, Zissman emphatically replied "Yes!" with supportive emojis. Other Dubai residents echoed her sentiment in comments, with one asserting, "Safer here than the UK!" while another advised, "After the inevitable dip UAE will come back stronger if you can wait it out."
Regional Conflict Escalates
The missile strikes are part of Iran's retaliation for the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli airstrike along with four family members and high-level military officials. Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and suicide drones, targeting locations including Dubai International Airport and luxury hotels like the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah, causing panic among tourists and residents.
Key developments include:
- Both Dubai airports are closed, suspending all flights and stranding thousands of British travellers.
- Authorities have warned residents and tourists against attempting to travel due to safety concerns.
- Smoke was seen rising from Dubai International Airport, with explosions reported across the city.
Zissman's Background and Move to Dubai
Zissman, who rose to fame on Series 9 of The Apprentice, is married to Irish businessman Andrew Collins, with whom she has two children. The couple previously lived in a £7.5 million Hertfordshire mansion before relocating to Dubai, joining a trend of TV personalities and influencers attracted by tax-free incomes and a luxury lifestyle. Collins, who made the Sunday Times Rich List in 2017 with an estimated net worth of £54 million, maintains a low profile compared to his wife's public persona.
Public Reaction and Safety Debates
While Zissman and some expats defend Dubai's safety, others have questioned the claim. One social media user commented, "Went down to the pub today, loudest noise I heard was a car exhaust," implying the UK is quieter. Another remarked, "Should have stayed in your beautiful home in UK." The ongoing attacks have sparked broader discussions about security in the region versus the UK, especially as the conflict destabilises the Gulf.
As missile strikes continue, the situation remains fluid, with Iranian forces vowing to unleash their "most intense offensive operation in history." For now, Zissman and many others are hunkering down, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis that has turned a holiday haven into a conflict zone.
