Some Debris Falls in Dubai
Blow to the City's Image as a "Safe Haven"
The Middle Eastern city of Dubai, once regarded as a "dream city" by online influencers and the wealthy, was suddenly thrown into chaos. The British broadcaster BBC reported that Dubai's image as a safe haven for the affluent has inevitably been damaged.
On March 3 (local time), the BBC stated that "a missile attack has shattered Dubai's reputation as a refuge," sharing the story of a British influencer who recently moved from the UK to Dubai.
Will Bailey, a fitness coach from the UK, had planned to launch a new coaching business in Dubai. However, less than 24 hours after he arrived at the airport, Iran launched a missile attack. Although the United Arab Emirates (UAE) military intercepted the attack, some debris from the missiles fell near buildings in Dubai.
Bailey recounted to the BBC, "It was only a few meters away from where we were standing." According to Bailey, the missile debris fell near the Fairmont The Palm Hotel, one of Dubai's most famous landmarks. As a result of the attack, the building was engulfed in flames and four people were injured.
Since February 28, Iran has been carrying out indiscriminate attacks on Middle Eastern countries in retaliation for airstrikes by the United States and Israel. These attacks are ongoing, and at least one death has been reported in the UAE. Bailey lamented, "Everything in Dubai has changed after this incident," adding, "Right now, we are in the midst of chaos."
He originally planned to stay in Dubai, but said he is now uncertain about the future due to the war. Bailey said, "I don't know what my plans will be going forward. I may stay here, or I might return to the UK."
Dubai used to be considered a land of opportunity for global travelers, the wealthy, and entrepreneurs, thanks to its ultra-luxurious hotels and light regulations. According to the BBC, not only people from the UK but also models, celebrities, and influencers from many Western countries reside in Dubai. However, the recent incident has raised doubts about whether Dubai can maintain its previous reputation.
Arabella, a contestant on the British reality dating show "Love Island," wrote on her social media that it is "a truly frightening time." Petra Ecclestone, another model, expressed her disappointment, saying, "I came to Dubai to feel safe and finally felt settled, but then this happened."
Some influencers posted reassurances such as "the air defense system is working" and "life goes on unchanged." However, the BBC pointed out that "criticizing the government is illegal in the UAE."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
