PV Sindhu Returns Home After Dubai Airport Ordeal Amid Middle East Tensions

Indian badminton champion PV Sindhu faced a challenging ordeal while stranded at Dubai International Airport due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. After several days of uncertainty, she has safely returned to Bengaluru. Sindhu expressed her gratitude towards the airport staff and authorities for their support during this difficult time. She also recounted a frightening incident involving an explosion near the airport, highlighting the tense atmosphere. Read on to discover more about her experience and the challenges faced during her travel.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 3, 2026, 13:33 IST

PV Sindhu's Stranded Experience in Dubai

The ongoing conflict between the USA/Israel and Iran has created a tense atmosphere across the Middle East, impacting numerous countries. This situation has also disrupted global travel significantly, leading to the suspension of operations at Dubai International Airport for several days. As a result, many travelers, including numerous Indians, found themselves stranded at the airport. Among them was renowned Indian badminton player PV Sindhu, who was stuck there since February 28 during her layover en route to the All England Open 2026 in Birmingham.

Fortunately, there is positive news. PV Sindhu announced her safe return to Bengaluru through a post on her X (formerly Twitter) account. She expressed her gratitude towards the Dubai airport authorities for their exceptional care during her ordeal. "Back home in Bangalore and safe. The last few days have been intense and uncertain, but I’m truly grateful to be back to my house. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible ground teams, Dubai authorities, airport staff, immigration, and every single person who stepped up and took such good care of us during a very difficult time. The empathy and professionalism meant more than words can say. For now, it’s time to rest, reset, and figure out the next steps," Sindhu shared.

'Explosion Near the Airport'

In a harrowing account, PV Sindhu recounted a frightening incident involving an explosion that occurred near their location at the airport. Her coach had to swiftly evacuate the area due to the proximity of smoke and debris. "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. 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. For now, we are trying to get some rest and hold on to hope as we wait for things to settle," Sindhu wrote on X.