Missile Tensions Disrupt Dubai Flights

Former Love Island star Ella Barnes has said she was evacuated from Dubai International Airport after missile activity in the region caused flight cancellations and heightened security.

The 25-year-old influencer, who appeared on the 2023 series of Love Island, told her Instagram followers that her return flight to the UK had been cancelled amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. She shared a photo that appeared to show a largely empty airport terminal, explaining that passengers had been evacuated and that she would be staying in Dubai longer than planned.

In follow-up posts, Barnes uploaded video clips showing flashes in the night sky, which she described as missiles, along with the sound of loud explosions in the distance. “This is so scary,” she wrote alongside one clip, drawing attention to the noise at the end of the video.

Later, she reassured followers by posting footage of herself travelling along a quiet highway, confirming she had left the airport area. “We are out of here. Thanks for all the messages,” she wrote.

The disruption comes during a period of heightened regional tension following missile exchanges involving Iran. On Saturday, reports indicated that dark smoke was visible over parts of Dubai after debris from intercepted missiles reportedly fell in some areas of the city.

Although UAE authorities have not issued detailed public statements about specific evacuations at Dubai International Airport, temporary flight cancellations and route adjustments have been reported as precautionary measures during the unrest.

Barnes was not the only British reality TV personality to speak out. Former Geordie Shore cast member Sam Gowland said a “rocket” had flown over his Dubai home, describing the situation as “bloody scary.” Meanwhile, fellow Love Island alum Arabella Chi, who relocated to Dubai with her partner and young daughter last year, shared a message urging friends and followers to stay safe during what she called “scary times.”

Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, remains one of the Middle East’s most popular tourist destinations and is home to a growing number of British influencers and entrepreneurs. Areas such as Palm Jumeirah have become particularly popular with UK-based celebrities who split their time between Britain and the Gulf state.

Barnes first entered the Love Island villa in 2023 as a late “bombshell” contestant, where she formed a brief relationship with Mitchell Taylor before the pair split after leaving the show. She later appeared on The Only Way Is Essex and confirmed a relationship with entrepreneur Neil Farrugia, though they subsequently separated.

Currently based in Kent, Barnes frequently travels abroad for work and leisure. She has since confirmed she is safe.

Airlines continue to monitor developments in the region, with travel advisories typically urging passengers to check directly with carriers and official government guidance during periods of instability.