Missiles lit up the sky over Dubai — and within hours, so did social media.
An Australian influencer based in the United Arab Emirates is facing intense backlash after posting a now-deleted Instagram video reacting to reported Iranian retaliatory strikes that extended into the Gulf region.
Louise Starkey filmed herself from a hotel balcony as what appeared to be missiles streaked across the night sky. Wearing a white bathrobe and clutching her face, she told followers: “I’m scared. I’m actually so scared. It’s not meant to be happening here. Can’t everyone just chill out?”
The footage, which quickly circulated before being deleted, captured Starkey describing loud explosions that she said had been shaking windows throughout the day.
“This is not fun, guys. We are supposed to be in the safest place,” she said. “I love the UAE, I love being here. I feel so safe all the time, and now I can see it. Please just stop.”
The reported strikes allegedly caused damage to parts of Dubai’s main international airport terminal and landmarks including the Burj Al Arab and areas of the Palm Jumeirah. The broader escalation follows heightened tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
But it was Starkey’s remark — “It’s not meant to be happening here” — that ignited fierce criticism online.
Dubai has long marketed itself as a haven of luxury and stability, attracting influencers with its skyline, tax-free income, and reputation as a global content-creation hub. Critics argued Starkey’s comment revealed a deeper sense of entitlement.
“‘Not meant to be happening here’ has to be one of the most selfish statements I have ever heard. As if it’s meant to happen anywhere,” one commenter wrote, according to the Daily Mail.
Another added: “The entitlement. It happens in Gaza, it’s fine. But if it happens to your luxury lifestyle, ‘it’s not meant to happen.’”
Others urged Starkey to stay calm and avoid amplifying fear through social media.
“It will be over soon. I’m in Dubai, and I’ve been seeing them all day, but I have a very strong belief that this land is a land of peace and won’t be harmed,” one commenter wrote, according to news.com.au. “It’s just a temporary disturbance that will end soon. Stay strong.”
Another wrote: “Hang in there, girly. It’s not nice for anyone. But worry about what you can control — and that’s your mindset.”
The backlash highlights a broader cultural tension: how global conflict collides with curated digital lifestyles. Dubai’s image as a glittering sanctuary — symbolized by sail-shaped hotels and palm-shaped islands — contrasts sharply with images of missiles cutting across its skyline.
Starkey has not publicly responded further since deleting the video.
