Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand and his wife Kate are hunkered down in a Dubai lockdown triggered by Iranian missile strikes in retaliation for U.S. attacks. The couple, who relocated to the UAE last August with their younger children, described the ordeal as terrifying while reassuring fans of their safety.

Family’s Relocation to Dubai

Rio Ferdinand, 47, moved to Dubai with Kate, 34, along with their children Shae, 2, Cree, 5, and Rio’s daughter Tia, 14. The family’s older sons, Lorenz, 19, and Tate, 17, remained in the UK to pursue their football careers.

Rio Ferdinand Breaks Silence on the Crisis

On the latest episode of his show Rio Ferdinand Presents, Ferdinand opened up about the past week’s chaos. “Been a different week for me, not going to lie,” he said. The family has turned to group workouts and homeschooling, much like during the COVID era.

“It’s frightening when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets going above us, and you’re hearing big bombs,” Ferdinand explained. He emphasized the challenge of staying calm for his children: “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.”

The family has sheltered in their basement, using it as a bunker during the initial nights of explosions.

Kate Ferdinand’s Instagram Update

Kate Ferdinand shared an update on Instagram, addressing concerns after a “very scary night.” “We’ve got to be honest guys, it’s been a bit of a scary situation but at the same time weirdly enough I’ve felt very secure and looked after,” she wrote. “My studio has become my bunker.”

She praised government efforts: “The government are doing an amazing job of keeping it that way and despite my nerves I feel we are in very safe hands.” The children, Cree and Shae, viewed the basement stay as a fun sleepover.

“We are hoping for a calmer evening tonight… Thank you for all of your prayers, this whole experience is very eye-opening and I am praying for anyone affected,” Kate added.

Adjusting to Life in Dubai

Prior to the attacks, Kate discussed the family’s transition on her Blended podcast. She expressed missing London and the UK but noted benefits for the younger children, who enjoy outdoor freedom. The move has allowed Rio to be more present with the family after stepping back from punditry.

“I think it’s an amazing place to live… The children are thriving and happy,” she said, while acknowledging the emotional strain of separation from their older sons.