Rio Ferdinand opens up on ‘scary’ life in Dubai amid Middle East conflict

Speaking on his podcast, Ferdinand said, “Firstly, I’m in great condition this morning as the whole family did a workout. A bit like in Covid, the whole family is doing things we wouldn’t usually be doing together.

“It’s frightening when you hear missiles, planes and fighter jets – I don’t know what it is – going above us, and you’re hearing big bombs, and what that is we don’t know, as we don’t know the details of what they are.

“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. You want to try to remain calm and keep everybody as calm as possible.”

Ferdinand admitted: “I’ve got to be honest, guys, it’s been a bit of a scary situation.”

Rio Ferdinand says basement has become safe space for his family

Ferdinand explained that on the first night of heavy noise, they were advised to move into the basement.

“We were advised to go into the basement on the first night that all the noise started, and we were down here sleeping with duvets and stuff.

He added: “We are utilising the space wisely. My studio has become my bunker.”

Despite the uncertainty, Ferdinand said he has felt “very secure and looked after,” as the family adapts their routine with workouts and homeschooling.