DOHA - South Africans living in the Middle East say they remain calm despite rising tensions in the region.
Vanessa Smeets, an expat based in Bahrain, says residents have not lost their sense of humour.
“People are still ordering Uber Eats,” she said.
While residents have been advised to stay indoors, the directive is not being strictly enforced.
“It’s a strange feeling to be in a place where the danger is almost unknown,” Smeets added.
The United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on Saturday. In response, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard reported attacks on US bases in Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE.
READ: President Ramaphosa calls for dialogue as Middle East tensions escalate
As missiles continued to fall on Tehran, US President Donald Trump told the Daily Mail the conflict could last up to four weeks, saying “it’s always been a four-week process.”
Airspace across parts of the Middle East has been closed, leaving many travellers stranded at airports worldwide.
Several international flights to and from South Africa have also been suspended, marking the most significant global travel disruption since the COVID-19 pandemic.
READ: South African Muslims performing Umrah stranded in Saudi Arabia
Wian Steenkamp from Krugersdorp has been in Doha, Qatar, for the past week on holiday.
Despite hearing fighter jets intercepting missiles, he says he feels safe.
His holiday is due to end on Tuesday, and he is awaiting a 9am update on possible travel arrangements.
In the meantime, Steenkamp says the hotel has communicated an evacuation plan.
“They are doing a good job keeping us safe,” he said.
Mthobisi Sithole, a teacher based in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, for the past three years, says that although residents have heard loud noises, civilians have not been directly affected.
“We have communication from the South African Embassy for emergencies,” he added.
READ: Residents flee as Iran missiles stun peaceful Gulf cities
Robin Bezuidenhout, who has been teaching in Doha with her husband for two years, also praised the South African Embassy for ensuring citizens are registered.
“At the moment, all we can hear are the sounds of interceptors hitting missiles from Iran,” she said.
“Most of us are working from home and have been advised to stay indoors.”
Most expats who have spoken to eNCA say it is business as usual, with schools and workplaces operating online until further notice.