Terrified socialite Hofit Golan reveals she is hiding in the bath as she recalls the ‘surreal’ moment she saw Iranian missile strikes raining down from her Dubai balcony

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Hofit Golan says she’s currently hiding in her bathtub, deeply disturbed after seeing an Iranian missile strike the Palm Jumeirah hotel in Dubai.

Following US airstrikes, Iran launched retaliatory attacks throughout the Middle East on Saturday, and one missile hit a luxury hotel.

Hofit, a 40-year-old social media personality from Israel, is one of many public figures currently concerned for their well-being in the UAE.

Hofit remembered hearing loud explosions and thinking, “I can’t believe this is happening, especially here in what’s supposed to be the safest city.”

It’s natural to be scared, of course. You’d expect the UAE to be a very safe place, though.

You can see the explosions right outside your balcony. It’s not like fireworks – the light in the sky is completely different.

It’s natural to wonder what will happen later and if everyone will be able to get a good night’s sleep.

I’m still feeling a bit shaken up and out of it. I haven’t been able to catch my breath, and I’m completely overwhelmed and exhausted.

The UAE is effectively defending against the missiles and handling the situation well. It’s natural to feel shocked and worried, and that’s honestly where I’m at emotionally.

I didn’t witness any injuries or hear anyone yelling. I’m feeling overwhelmed and still trying to make sense of everything that happened. It all feels very unreal.

She said they’ve received reports that tourist attractions are closing, and people are being advised to stay inside and avoid windows.

Tehran launched missile attacks that hit US military bases in Qatar, as well as cities in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Israel.

Oh my god, I just saw the videos online, and it’s absolutely devastating! The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai – the Palm Jumeirah, you guys! – was actually on fire! Apparently, it was hit by one of those Iranian suicide drones. I’m just sick to my stomach thinking about it. It’s such a beautiful, incredible place, and to see it like that… it’s awful. I’ve been following its construction for years, and now this! I can’t believe it.

On Saturday evening, Donald Trump stated that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had died.

Oh my god, did you SEE?! He posted on Truth Social that Khamenei is gone! Like, actually gone! I can’t even begin to tell you how amazing this is. It’s not just good for the people of Iran, it’s good for all of us, all the great Americans, and everyone around the world who’s suffered because of that monster and his… well, his awful gang. Seriously, Khamenei was one of the worst people ever, and this is just… justice. Finally, justice for everyone he hurt!

Our advanced intelligence and tracking systems located him, and with close cooperation from Israel, he and other leaders killed alongside him had no way to escape or hide.

Officials previously stated the attacks severely damaged the leadership of Iran and its top military officials.

Hofit bravely decided to leave her home on a private beach in Palm Jumeirah and go to a safer location, hoping to encourage others still in the UAE to do the same.

She added that the situation seemed relatively safe, and it appeared they had anticipated this happening. The main concerns now are the scattered debris and making sure people know how to respond.

Okay, so I’ve been reading everything about safety during these events, and the biggest thing I’ve learned is this: if you see stuff falling – anything, really – you need to get inside immediately. And don’t rush back out for at least two or three minutes! It’s not the initial impact that gets most people, it’s the debris falling afterwards. Seriously, give it time to settle, it’s so important!

I didn’t see any signs of panic, just a lot of traffic. Dubai always has heavy traffic, so it’s hard to tell if this congestion is normal or if people are trying to get out of the city.

Hofit said she has decided to travel to a friend house, who lives more inland. 

She explained that she’s hoping to invite her international friends to stay at her villa and give them a break from city life.

Honestly, despite everything, the streets here feel surprisingly calm and organized. I’m still processing the current situation and trying to figure out when I’ll be able to leave Dubai – it’s a bit overwhelming, and I’m just taking things one step at a time.

This is still developing, but I’m thankful to the UAE. The explosions you’re seeing are from intercepted missiles, and I’d much rather they destroy them in the air than have them hit us.

A fashion model was on a British Airways flight heading to London Heathrow when passengers were told the flight was cancelled and everyone had to get off the plane.

Hofit commended the Dubai airport staff for their excellent handling of the evacuation, noting their helpfulness and efficiency. He was particularly impressed, contrasting the situation with disruptions at Heathrow Airport, where even a small amount of snow can cause widespread closures. He highlighted Dubai’s preparedness and proactive approach to managing the situation.

Everything seemed calm at first. But immediately after I left the airport, reports started flooding in about explosions happening throughout the city.

The airport experience was smooth – our luggage was handled quickly and efficiently. On the drive home, we started hearing news reports.

Hofit said she doesn’t know yet when travellers will be allowed to leave.

I don’t have any immediate travel plans. Some friends and I have been talking about trips to places like Oman or Egypt, and we’re exploring different options for getting out of the area.

It seems like the situation in Dubai is going to spread throughout the region, and airspace has been closed. I’m taking things one step at a time and closely following official safety guidance.

‘I am just one person in a city right now. I think about other people, but it is going to be okay.’

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2026-03-01 01:35