oi-Shreya Sanjeev

Indian badminton star PV Sindhu was stranded at Dubai International Airport after airspace closures followed a series of missile and drone attacks targeting the UAE. Sindhu was en route to Birmingham for the All England Championships when flights were suspended amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Explosions were reported across parts of Dubai, including Palm Jumeirah, near the Burj Al Arab, and in the vicinity of the airport. According to reports, debris from intercepted drones caused damage and fires in certain areas. Around 137 missiles and over 200 drones were reportedly launched towards the UAE, with many intercepted by defence systems.

Sindhu and her team were inside the airport when the situation intensified.

PV Sindhu witness to “terrifying” Iran attack

Sindhu took to social media to reassure fans and share updates as events unfolded.

“It’s hard to process what’s unfolding right now. Hearing the interceptions overhead and seeing how quickly everything has escalated is honestly terrifying,” she wrote.

Describing the atmosphere inside the airport, she added: “The Airport is chaotic, with many families stranded and waiting, all of us just hoping we get past this soon.”

In a later update, Sindhu revealed just how close the danger came.

“A few hours ago, there was an explosion close to where we were holed up at the airport. My coach had to quickly run out of the area as he was closest to the smoke and debris. It was an extremely tense and scary moment for all of us.”

She confirmed that she and her team were safely moved to a more secure area.

“We are all safe now and have been moved to a more secure place, thanks to the tireless efforts of the staff at Dubai Airport and the Dubai authorities. A special thanks as well to the Indian High Commission in Dubai for their incredible support and constant assistance in helping keep us safe.”

In a video message, Sindhu said the explosion occurred roughly 100 metres from where her coach was standing, calling the experience “truly shaking” and acknowledging that such moments remind you “how fragile normal life really is.”

En Route to All England Open

Sindhu had been travelling from Bengaluru, where she trains full-time, to compete in the prestigious All England Championships in Birmingham. The sudden closure of airspace left her and several others stranded at one of the world’s busiest international transit hubs.

Despite the chaos, Sindhu emphasised the unity within her team.

“I feel incredibly blessed to have such a strong and united team around me. Everyone stayed calm, supported one another and showed real strength during a very frightening situation.”

For now, Sindhu and her support staff remain safe in Dubai as authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation.

Her message ended on a note that resonated beyond sport: “Praying for safety and peace for everyone affected.”

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