Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand has described a 'scary' week for his family in Dubai as they endure the sounds of fighter jets and explosions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The 47-year-old television pundit, who lives in Dubai with his wife Kate and their children, compared the experience to a Covid-like lockdown, saying the family is home-schooling and exercising together.
Ferdinand revealed on his podcast 'Rio Ferdinand Presents' that the family was advised to sleep in the basement on the first night of the noise. 'It's frightening when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets going above us, and you're hearing big bombs,' he said, adding that he is trying to remain calm for his children.
The strikes, which began on Saturday, targeted Iran's missile infrastructure and military sites, and resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated by launching missiles and drones at Israel, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, heightening anxiety among British expatriates in Dubai.
Ferdinand's sons Lorenz and Tate did not relocate to Dubai and remain in the UK for their football careers. Meanwhile, other British celebrities, including Vicky Pattison, have also been affected, with Pattison moved to an underground car park as a precaution.
