Middle East conflict hits Dubai
Ex-soccer star converted recording studio into “bunker”.
03/03/2026 – 11:44 amReading time: 2 minutes
Long-time England international Rio Ferdinand lives with his family in Dubai. He describes his situation on site in a podcast.
Former England footballer Rio Ferdinand has spoken about his fear in his adopted home of Dubai as the conflict in the Middle East escalates. “It’s scary when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets – I don’t know exactly what it is – overhead, and then these loud explosions. It was a very scary night,” he said on his YouTube show “Rio Ferdinand Presents.” The fact that his entire family is at home and homeschooling has been ordered for the children reminds him of the lockdowns during the corona pandemic.
His recording studio in the basement of his house has become his “little bunker” for the six-time English champion. On the first night of the rocket attacks, they were ordered to go to the basement of their homes. He also spent the night there with his family. However, the 47-year-old also emphasized how great the willingness to help is within his neighborhood and that he feels protected by those in power in Dubai.
“It’s about explaining to your children what’s happening and helping them navigate through this moment. You want to stay calm and keep everyone as calm as possible.” Ferdinand lives in Dubai with his wife Kate (34) and their children Shae (two years) and Cree (five years). His 14-year-old daughter Tia from a previous relationship also belongs to the family. They have lived in the emirate since August 2025.
On Saturday, an Iranian missile hit the entrance area of a luxury hotel in Dubai.
