Dubai Resilience: Expats Remain Despite Regional Tensions
Despite recent escalations in regional conflict, including Iranian missile and drone launches, many expatriates are choosing to remain in Dubai and other Gulf cities. While acknowledging disruptions to daily life, residents express confidence in local authorities’ ability to manage the situation and hope for a swift resolution to the ongoing tensions.
Adapting to a New Normal
The recent increase in military activity has understandably unsettled many living in the region. Maria Palmou, a Greek lawyer working in Dubai for over a decade, notes the initial impact on daily routines. “Initially, and I consider that goes for everyone who is here, it has affected our day-to-day life, and it’s unsettling to everyone,” she said. Though, she also emphasizes a growing sense of calm and confidence in the local authorities’ handling of the situation.
Despite the unsettling nature of frequent alerts received on mobile phones, many are adapting by taking precautions when alerts are active. Palmou explains, “you must avoid being outside” during these times. Despite the disruptions, life continues with people going to work, shopping, and enjoying leisure activities. “There are a lot of people who will proceed to the park, who will go to the beach,” she added.
Work and Lifestyle Adjustments
Many companies have shifted to remote work arrangements as Iranian attacks have targeted residential zones, airports, and embassies alongside military sites. Sidonie Viaud, a French national in the tech sector, and her husband are both working from home until further notice, and their children are attending school online. This situation is being likened to the adjustments made during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s more like Covid for us,” Viaud stated.
Bruno de Champris, a French director and producer based in Dubai since 2005, has also transitioned to working from home due to the suspension of filming. He acknowledges the anxiety, stating, “We don’t sleep well,” in fear of explosions.
Regional Perspectives and Considerations
While social life has been temporarily curtailed for some, like American Asad in Doha, who is staying with his family unless Qatari civil infrastructure is targeted, many remain committed to their lives in the Gulf. The U.S. Embassy offered evacuation assistance, but Asad and his wife declined, continuing their work remotely.
In Saudi Arabia, some residents have chosen to leave, but others, like Lorraine Soulier, director of the Barnes Dubai network of luxury real estate agencies, believe the risks are comparable to those faced in many major cities worldwide.
Recent Incidents
On February 28, 2026, a fire broke out at the Fairmont The Palm Hotel in Dubai following Iranian strikes. Four people were injured in the blaze, and minor damage was reported at Dubai International Airport. Similar incidents were reported in other regional countries, including Qatar and Bahrain, where missiles targeting US military bases were intercepted.
Despite these events, the overall sentiment among many expatriates remains one of resilience and a commitment to continuing their lives in the region, hoping for a swift end to the current hostilities.