Emma Graham, CNBC Middle East bureau chief, was on holiday in Goa when USA and Israeli strikes on Iran expanded into a wider war.
She believed returning to the United Arab Emirates would be impossible after her scheduled flight was cancelled. While traveling to Mumbai to continue to Singapore for work for time being, she unexpectedly found an Emirates repatriation flight to Dubai.
The airline allowed UAE residents and nationals to book seats on the spot. After consulting her security team, she decided to return home despite the risks.
Most flights in and out of the UAE had been suspended, leaving thousands stranded and causing global disruption. Emirates and Etihad operated limited repatriation services for residents and tourists.
Graham boarded a half full Airbus A380 from Mumbai to Dubai. Passengers included Emiratis and expatriates who had struggled to find routes home, some facing costly land journeys through neighboring countries.
Shortly before landing, the captain announced that Iranian missiles aimed at the UAE had closed the airspace, forcing the plane to turn back.
Shock spread among passengers. Minutes later, clearance to land was granted as air defenses intercepted the missiles. Relief and applause followed.
The plane landed in an almost empty Dubai airport early Tuesday morning. Despite the tension and uncertainty, Graham felt grateful and relieved to be home.
The journey, filled with uncertainty over missile threats and airspace closures, became an unforgettable experience for Emma Graham.
