Lindsay Lohan swaps Hollywood chaos for Dubai calm - and she's loving it
Image: Instagram
In a candid revelation, actress Lindsay Lohan shared her journey of relocating from the glitz of Hollywood to the tranquillity of Dubai, a move she made nearly a decade ago in search of normalcy and privacy.
Speaking with Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos on the American talk show "Kelly and Mark", Lohan reflected on her life in the vibrant city, famously known as the City of Gold.
'It's just far away from Hollywood and I live a very normal life,' Lohan said, explaining how her decision to leave the United States has profoundly impacted her family dynamics.
The actress, now 38, expressed relief at being free from the incessant attention of paparazzi.
'There's no worry of like, I can't go eat at this place because someone's going to take a picture of my son,' she added, alluding to the restrictive measures surrounding privacy in Dubai, where it is illegal to take photographs of individuals without their consent.
Describing her newfound sense of security, Lohan stated, 'I feel very safe. You can't take a picture of someone else if you're at a restaurant. You have to ask the person, which is a big difference. Privacy is key.'
This sense of safety is particularly important for Lohan as she raises her two-year-old son, Luai, with her husband, Bader Shammas.
Despite her love for Dubai, the former child star admitted to a longing for the unique flavour of New York cuisine, particularly its pizza, which she claims has yet to be matched in her current location.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
'I still haven't found pizza in Dubai that's as good as New York's,' Lohan lamented, highlighting the bittersweet nature of her relocation.
As a mother of a two-year-old, Lohan also shared her experiences of parenting while travelling.
'We've been travelling and he is with us. So we're really strict on nap time, and he is still napping,' she explained.
In a separate interview, Lohan contrasted her experiences in New York City and Los Angeles, ring-fencing each city's distinct energy.
'In New York, there's no worry; no one bothers us. Everyone has their own thing going on,' she noted, suggesting that while she appreciates the space that Los Angeles offers, she relishes the privacy and peace Dubai brings.
'The funny thing is, in Dubai, I get all of those things. I get the privacy, I get the peace, I get the space. I don't have to worry; I feel safe,' she asserted.
Despite living predominantly in Dubai for the past several years, she indicated that work commitments in the US have seen her return less frequently to her home country.
As her son approaches the age where schooling becomes essential, Lohan expressed uncertainty about whether Dubai will remain their permanent residence.
She and Shammas face the upcoming decision of where best to educate their son, with ambitions of providing him the best opportunities.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
7 hours ago
- IOL News
From Joe Thomas to DJ Zinhle: enjoy these top musical events in Joburg this Women's Day
Joe Thomas will perform in Joburg on Women's Day. Fans of the Grammy Award-winning American artists can expect to be entertained by some of the biggest hits from their expansive discographies, which span decades. Two musical superstars, Anthony Hamilton and Joe Thomas , are set to serenade Joburgers this Women's Day. When: Saturday, August 9, from 12pm. Where: The DP World Wanderers Stadium in Sandton. In addition, South African musical legends Zonke, Sjava and Vusi Nova will also take to the stage as the opening acts. Zee Nation Women's Day Fest by DJ Zinhle DJ Zinhle's renowned 'Zee Nation Fest' is making its return this weekend. Hosted by the legendary musician, the gathering seeks to be a celebration of womanhood. Apart from the 'Umlilo' hitmaker, other artists who will take to the stage include her husband, Mörda. They will be joined by Mawhoo, Lady Du, Thabsie, Nomfundo Moh, Oskido, Pearl Thusi, Blaq Diamond, Kamo Mphela and Nadia Nakai. Meanwhile, Moozlie, Somizi and Alphi will be the MCs. Where: The Johannesburg Expo Centre. When: Saturday, August 9, from 2.30pm. The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra presents the Early Spring Symphony Season The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is returning with the Early Spring Symphony Season for 2025. This time, both local and international talent will deliver a fresh repertoire of the most enchanting classical music compositions every week for the rest of August. Where: The Linder Auditorium at Wits University. When: Runs until August 28, every Thursday from 7.30pm.
IOL News
7 hours ago
- IOL News
Celebrating Women's Day with passport power: meet the women redefining adventure
Karabo Matlala, a wildlife photographer and safari enthusiast, captured searching for the perfect shot at Ezemvelo Nature Reserve in Gauteng. Image: Supplied As we commemorate Women's Day, it's essential to recognise the remarkable contributions of women in various fields, particularly in the realm of content creation. In South Africa, female creators are not only shaping the digital landscape but also inspiring others to embrace their passions and share their stories. We spotlight three incredible young women: Priscilla Nkoane, Karabo Matlala and Farirai Sanyika, who are making waves in lifestyle, travel and wildlife photography. Through their journeys, they remind us of the importance of empowerment, connection, and the beauty of exploring our world. From local hot spots to hidden gem destinations, Priscilla Nkoane helps adventurers explore the best deals in Durban. Image: Instagram Priscilla Nkoane: celebrating everyday moments Priscilla Nkoane, a 26-year-old content creator from Bloemfontein, now residing in Durban, has carved a niche for herself in the lifestyle and travel space. With a background in Marketing Management, Nkoane's content focuses on celebrating the beauty in everyday moments, whether it's discovering a new restaurant or sharing a hidden travel spot. 'What motivates me each morning is the simple but powerful reminder that I can try again,' she shares. This mindset has propelled her to create content that resonates with many, especially young women seeking inspiration. Nkoane's favourite local destination is Cape Town, where the stunning views and vibrant culture provide endless opportunities for exploration. Internationally, Switzerland holds a special place in her heart, with its peaceful landscapes that feel like stepping into a postcard. Nkoane's journey into content creation began during a challenging period in her life when she lost her job and her original Instagram account. Instead of succumbing to despair, she embraced the opportunity to start anew, sharing her authentic self with the world. 'There's power in sharing, in being open, relatable, and real,' she explains. Her platform aims to uplift and inspire other young women, reinforcing the idea that there's room for everyone in the industry. "Through my content, I've learned a lot, and I hope to keep creating a space that inspires and uplifts other young women like me. There's room for all of us in this industry, and I want my platform to reflect that," said Nkoane. Karabo Matlala: capturing nature's wonders Karabo Matlala, a wildlife and travel photographer from Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng, has a passion for capturing the beauty of nature. With her camera in hand, she explores the wild, connecting with the environment and sharing her unique perspective through her lens. 'Photography gives me an opportunity to connect with nature and helps me express how I see it,' she says. Every day brings new adventures for Matlala, who finds motivation in the excitement of exploring the unknown. Her favourite local destination is the Kruger National Park, where the diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife offer endless inspiration. Internationally, the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia has captured her heart, with its breathtaking scenery and the majestic sight of elephants along the riverbanks. As a female photographer in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Matlala faces challenges but remains determined to break barriers. 'Every challenge I face only fuels my passion,' she asserts. Her journey is not just about capturing moments; it's about paving the way for other women to step into the field and showcasing that they too have a place in this industry. "With travel & wildlife every day brings a new chance to go out and explore, there is anexcitement about what the day may bring. What will I see today? That keeps me motivated and excited to start the day. It just reminds me that every day is another opportunity to see or photography something special," she said. Solo travel influencer Farirai Sanyika explores Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls, embracing the freedom that travel offers. Image: Instagram
IOL News
9 hours ago
- IOL News
Laila Ali goes from the ring to the kitchen as the host of 'Chef Grudge Match'
Boxing champion Laila Ali is stepping into the ring once again, this time to host Food Network's "Chef Grudge Match". Image: Instagram. Boxing legend Laila Ali is stepping into the kitchen, trading her gloves for an apron as the host of Food Network's upcoming series, "Chef Grudge Match". The cooking competition will take viewers on a culinary battle where elite chefs come to settle long-standing disputes and bitter rivalries. Boxing champion Laila Ali also shares gardening tips and recipes on her Instagram. Image: Supplied. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Set to premiere on Tuesday, August 19, sous chefs wronged by their mentors to restaurateurs defending their turf against copycat rivals, each episode will showcase chefs putting their prized knives and reputations on the line for a chance to win $10 000 (R178 000), their opponent's most cherished knife and ultimate bragging rights. "I'm thrilled to be joining the Food Network family. As someone who's always been passionate about both competition and delicious food, 'Chef Grudge Match' is the perfect fit. From the ring to the kitchen, I've never shied away from a challenge, and now I get to have fun while bringing that same intensity to a show where culinary rivalries are settled once and for all," shared Ali. The show's premiere episode will feature a fiery confrontation between Italian chef Gabe Bertaccini and his former protégé, Tyler Romine. Betrayed by Romine's sudden departure from his catering business, Bertaccini has harboured a 15-year grudge that is set to boil over in the kitchen. The second match showcases chef Taylor Frankel from Vail, Colorado, who has a bone to pick with her former Sous chef, Maria Busato, after she opened a rival catering company in the same small town. "Throughout the eight-episode season, viewers can expect heated battles over business disputes, recipe rivalries, student-teacher conflicts and even husband versus wife showdowns, all taking place in front of a live studio audience with the electric atmosphere of a boxing match," shared the channel. Aside from Ali, resident judge Jet Tila will be joined by an impressive roster of guest judges, including culinary heavyweights like Eric Adjepong, Maneet Chauhan and Tiffani Faison, among others, adding their expert insights to the fierce competition. Chef Taylor Frankel. Image: Instagram. Betsy Ayala, head of Content, Food, Warner Bros. Discovery, said: "With reputations and livelihoods on the line, competition in the food world has heightened stakes, which have produced legendary grudges and rivalries. "'Chef Grudge Match' brings these grievances to a head in front of a studio audience, with all the energy of a live boxing match, and Laila Ali is the perfect ringmaster to oversee these battles for ultimate bragging rights." • 'Chef Grudge Match' premieres on Tuesday, August 19, at 5pm on Food Network Africa (DStv channel 175).
