Rio Ferdinand Reveals 'Scary' Dubai Lockdown Amid Missile Strikes In UAE: 'It's Frightening'

Last Updated:March 03, 2026, 19:01 IST

Rio Ferdinand shared his harrowing experience during a Dubai lockdown amidst missile strikes in the UAE.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has opened up about the frightening scenes unfolding near his home in Dubai, revealing how his family coped as missile strikes and fighter jets were heard overhead.

Ferdinand, 47, relocated to the United Arab Emirates last August with his wife Kate and their young children. But recent regional escalation, following Iranian missile launches in response to U.S. military action, brought the conflict alarmingly close.

Speaking on his podcast, Ferdinand described the surreal experience of hearing explosions and aircraft above their residence.

“It’s frightening when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets going above us," he said. “You’re hearing big bombs, and we don’t know the details of what they are."

For Ferdinand, the most difficult part wasn’t the noise. It was guiding his children through it.

“It’s telling your kids what it is and helping them navigate through this moment, which is important, especially as the dad of the house. You want to remain calm and keep everybody as calm as possible."

Authorities reportedly advised residents in certain areas to move into basements during the initial wave of activity. Ferdinand said his family followed that guidance.

“We were advised to go into the basement on the first night when all the noise started. We were down here sleeping with duvets and stuff. My studio has become my bunker."

Despite the tension, Ferdinand insisted he had felt secure overall, praising the sense of organisation and safety measures in place.

“It’s been a bit of a scary situation," he admitted. “But at the same time, weirdly enough, I’ve felt very secure and looked after."

While two of his sons remain in Britain pursuing football careers, Ferdinand has recently scaled back broadcasting commitments to spend more time with his family in Dubai, a decision that has taken on new meaning amid the unfolding unrest.

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