- South African comedian Dalin Oliver is sharing his experiences while in Dubai
- Having found himself stranded amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, he has provided a humorous account of his surroundings, including experiencing a missile attack firsthand
- His social media updates have not only kept his fans and family informed about his safety but have also offered moments of levity during this time of global unrest
Dalin Oliver, the South African comedian, has shown that humor can provide solace even when missiles are being launched.
Currently on a 90-day tour, Oliver unexpectedly found himself caught in the rising tensions and missile strikes while in Dubai. He is converting a stressful situation into a viral demonstration of South African comedy.
“I’m stuck in Dubai, that’s right. I’m stuck in Dubai, my fellow South Africans, people of the internet. I’m safe, I’m okay. Everything’s good. Family checked up on me. I’ve checked on them, friends, vice versa. Thank you, I appreciate it.”
Oliver described the previous 48 hours as “wild,” even as he looked forward to his next destination, the Adelaide Fringe festival in Australia.
In contrast to those who might feel panic in such circumstances, the comedian has been active on his Instagram since March 1, 2026, sharing updates about his “forced vacation” with a humorous lens, allowing followers to witness the unfolding events.
Tensions escalated on Saturday with Iran’s response to US and Israeli airstrikes. A significant aerial operation was launched targeting American military outposts in Gulf cities, including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE.
While sightseeing, Oliver initially mistook what he saw as either an airplane or a shooting star. Moments later, he was startled by a powerful explosion.
“I’m like, ‘Is it fireworks? Is it a shooting star? What is it? It sounds like an aeroplane.’ The next thing we hear (mimicking the sound of the blasts). My bru, it’s a missile! A missile, my bru, in real-time! A missile being intercepted.”
Source: Instagram
After checking his flight status, he learned it had been canceled. Due to safety protocols, the UAE shut down its airspace, leaving over 20,000 travelers without flights. Nevertheless, Oliver reported that he had a place to stay.
This development came after the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi issued a notice to hotels requesting they extend accommodations for stranded guests without charge.
“The government has done an amazing job in keeping the calmness and safety amongst the locals, who live here, and the individuals who are on holiday or in transit. Coming from Cape Town, South Africa, I’ve never experienced this before.”
In his subsequent updates, Oliver noted the missile strikes were frequent and their sound reminiscent of a “hair dryer that’s close to you.” Despite the surrounding turmoil, he consistently reassured his supporters of his safety and well-being.
Watch the comedian’s updates below.
Dalin Oliver finally makes it out of Dubai
In a post from Tuesday, March 3, he shared the news of finally securing a flight out of Dubai to Australia, where he is set to perform at the Adelaide Fringe.
Dalin expressed gratitude to those who have supported him and sent their well-wishes, while also remembering those who remain in Dubai.
“Thanks to everyone for all the love and support. I appreciate you. Good luck to everyone who is still in this difficult situation.”
Watch Dalin Oliver’s video below.
