Fear and fighter jets as Iranian strikes shake South Africans living in Middle East

Rushna Minnaar Lipsey with her husband, Sean Lipsey, and their two daughters, Melody Story and Jazzy Luna. South African expatriates living in the Middle East have spoken about the fear and uncertainty following a wave of Iranian airstrikes targeting United States military bases across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region since the weekend,POST has reported. The GCC includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Although defence systems intercepted many of the missiles, the attacks triggered emergency alerts and safety warnings for residents across several countries. Despite the tense atmosphere, South Africans living in the region say they are staying vigilant while trying to maintain a sense of calm. In Dubai, some well-known landmarks — including areas near Dubai International Airport — were affected when falling debris from intercepted missiles damaged parts of buildings and infrastructure.

Authorities also reported injuries linked to the incidents. Rushna Minnaar Lipsey, 36, who lives roughly 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, described the situation as deeply unsettling. Originally from Cape Town, she moved to Dubai 12 years ago to work as a hotel singer and now works as a freelance make-up artist.

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Lipsey said the sudden escalation shattered her sense of security in the city. She explained that the noise of fighter jets and explosions created an overwhelming atmosphere, particularly as she tried to comfort her young children while remaining calm herself. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors following the attacks because falling debris from intercepted missiles could pose serious risks.

According to Lipsey, the UAE military managed to intercept many of the hundreds of missiles reportedly launched from Iran. Even so, residents were advised to avoid going outside until the immediate danger had passed. Although the situation has since eased somewhat, she said she has chosen to remain indoors until officials confirm that conditions have fully stabilised.

Lipsey has taken several precautionary measures to protect her family. She reinforced her bedroom windows, placed a fire extinguisher beside her bed and prepared emergency bags containing shoes, medication, first-aid supplies, canned food and water.

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