Miss India Runner-Up Stranded in Dubai Amid Escalating Regional Tensions
As escalating regional tensions led to explosions, airspace restrictions, and widespread flight suspensions across parts of the United Arab Emirates, numerous international travelers found themselves unexpectedly stranded in Dubai. Among those affected is Bigg Boss contestant and Miss India 2020 Runner-up Manya Singh, who has been left alone in the city after her scheduled return flight was abruptly suspended.
From Conference Speaker to Stranded Passenger
Manya Singh traveled to the UAE on February 26 to attend a college conference as a keynote speaker. Speaking exclusively from Dubai, she recounted, "Everybody else left on the night of the 27th, but I decided to stay back. I had booked a 2.50 pm flight on February 28 from Abu Dhabi." Her flight was subsequently suspended without prior notice, leaving her stranded in a tense environment. She emphasized, "The situation here is extremely tense."
Witnessing Explosions and Missile Activity
Manya described a frightening incident at Dubai airport on Saturday, stating, "I saw explosions around the area and missiles flying. It was a terrifying moment. Even now, I can hear explosions. Roads are shut, and there is hardly any movement outside." Despite feeling scared and isolated, she maintained composure, adding, "I am alone and scared, but I cannot afford to panic because that will only make things worse."
A Narrow Escape from Hotel Attack
She also shared a chilling close call regarding her accommodation. Initially, airport authorities were arranging rooms for stranded passengers at Fairmont The Palm, but they couldn't secure one for her. "About half an hour later, we heard that the hotel had been attacked, reportedly hit by debris from a missile intercepted by the UAE's defences," she revealed. The hotel is directly opposite CIEL Dubai Marina, where she is currently staying, highlighting the precarious nature of the situation.
Uncertainty and Communication Challenges
With no official communication on when flights will resume, uncertainty has become the most challenging aspect. Manya explained, "Mine was the first flight to be suspended, and there's been no update since." Communication issues compounded her difficulties: "My international network isn't working, so I'm relying entirely on Wi-Fi. I texted the embassy on several numbers via WhatsApp, and they shared a manual process, but without mobile network access, I couldn't complete it." However, she noted some reassurance, saying, "Thankfully, the UAE authorities are taking care of stranded passengers, and Etihad has assured us they'll inform us about the next available flight."
Following Safety Protocols and Family Concerns
Local advisories have instructed guests to remain indoors and avoid sitting near mirrors and windows. Manya confirmed, "We're strictly following the protocols and staying inside our rooms. I just hope flights resume soon so I can go home." Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude, "At this moment, I truly feel India is safe, and I'm grateful to be an Indian." Back in India, her family is anxiously tracking developments through news reports. She said, "They are dependent on the news, so every update makes them panic. They keep calling to check on me, and I reassure them as much as I can. My priority has been to keep them calm. I've even informed the hotel staff to contact my family in case of any emergency."
The ongoing regional tensions have not only disrupted travel but also placed individuals like Manya Singh in harrowing circumstances, underscoring the broader impacts of geopolitical instability on civilians.
