Hyderabad Doctor's Harrowing Escape from Kuwait Amid Conflict
Dr. Umesh Bhammarkar, a Hyderabad-based eye specialist and avid international traveler who has visited 22 countries, never imagined that his 23rd destination—Kuwait—would become his most terrifying experience. What was planned as a brief visit quickly descended into chaos, leaving him stranded and forcing an arduous escape through the desert.
From Routine Trip to Crisis Zone
Dr. Bhammarkar arrived in Kuwait City on February 28, 2026, with plans to return home on March 1. However, barely an hour after leaving the airport, attacks erupted across the city, plunging the area into turmoil and uncertainty. The sudden violence transformed his short trip into a prolonged and distressing ordeal that would test his resilience.
Stranded with No Way Out
As unrest spread, Dr. Bhammarkar attempted to book return flights, with two options showing as operational. Yet, upon reaching the airport, he discovered it was completely shut down. With no immediate escape route available, he found himself trapped in a volatile situation. His breakthrough came when he secured a seat on a tourist bus evacuating travelers to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The Grueling Desert Journey
Along with other passengers, Dr. Bhammarkar embarked on a 1,460-kilometer road journey from Kuwait to Jeddah. The 26-hour bus ride across harsh desert terrain was both physically exhausting and emotionally tense. He described crossing the no man's land between the two countries as one of the most frightening moments of the entire trip.
- Physical exhaustion from prolonged travel
- Emotional stress amid uncertainty
- Perilous border crossing experience
Finally Reaching Safety
From Jeddah, Dr. Bhammarkar managed to board a flight to Mumbai, eventually arriving home on March 7—a full week after his planned return. Recalling the experience, he said, "When I arrived in Kuwait City, I was unaware of the situation. I was out in the city until evening, when my wife called to check on me. I then returned to my hotel and prepared to leave the next day."
Strategic Moves for Survival
With assistance from friends, Dr. Bhammarkar relocated to a safer location before boarding the tourist bus to Jeddah. This strategic move proved crucial in ensuring his eventual escape. The entire experience, from the initial shock to the exhausting journey home, left an indelible mark on the seasoned traveler.
Dr. Bhammarkar's story highlights the unpredictable nature of international travel during geopolitical conflicts and the resilience required to navigate such crises. His journey serves as a stark reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, turning routine trips into life-altering experiences.
