Esha Gupta Returns Home After Being Stranded in UAE Amid Regional Tensions

New Delhi, March 3, 2026: Following the sudden and dramatic escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Bollywood actress Esha Gupta has safely returned to India. The actress was among thousands of travelers stranded in the United Arab Emirates after a series of missile strikes involving Israel, the US, and Iran led to the immediate closure of regional airspace and major aviation hubs.

Taking to Instagram to share her relief, Gupta posted an emotional update detailing the “scary” hours spent at Abu Dhabi airport and her gratitude for those who ensured her safety.

Trapped in Abu Dhabi: A Sudden Turn of Events

Esha Gupta’s ordeal began on Sunday, February 28, when she arrived at Abu Dhabi airport to board a flight back to India. The atmosphere shifted instantly as news broke of a massive regional escalation, including reports of missile attacks. By 1:00 PM, the airport was placed under lockdown, leaving passengers in a state of high-alert confusion.

“Back home. Thank you for all the prayers and wishes. It was very tough to be in the situation that we all were,” Esha shared in her heartfelt post. “None of us knew what happened… then the news started coming of the missile attack, and no one knew what the next minute held for us. Strangers were consoling each other, all calling their families back home.”

Praise for UAE Authorities and Airport Staff

While the situation was undoubtedly tense, Gupta was quick to highlight the efficiency and composure of the UAE administration. She particularly noted the resilience of the Abu Dhabi airport ground staff and security, who managed the chaos without showing signs of panic.

• Immediate Action: Despite the sudden closure, airport staff mobilized to assist stranded passengers.
• Government Support: The UAE government reportedly ordered local hotels to provide accommodation and distributed cash for food to those stuck in the terminal.
• Safety Protocols: Esha lauded the “strength of the country,” noting that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and local authorities worked tirelessly to protect civilians during the airspace interception alerts.

The Return Home

After spending nearly two days in a state of uncertainty, Esha was able to secure a seat on one of the first commercial flights—an Etihad Airways flight to Delhi—as limited operations resumed on Monday.

In her concluding remarks, she expressed gratitude to both the UAE and Indian governments for their coordinated efforts in reassuring citizens and facilitating safe passage. “Thank you to everyone who helped and are helping people of the world to get back to their home. Your country is truly special,” she wrote, ending with a prayer for peace.

A Broader Crisis for the Industry

Esha Gupta was not the only celebrity caught in the crossfire of the regional conflict. Other prominent figures reported stranded or affected by the flight suspensions included:

• Sonal Chauhan: The actress appealed to the Indian government via social media after being stranded in Dubai.
• PV Sindhu: The badminton star was reportedly stuck in transit while traveling for an international tournament.
• Ajith Kumar: The Tamil superstar was also among those whose travel plans were disrupted in the UAE.

As of March 3, 2026, while the geopolitical situation remains fluid, aviation authorities in the UAE have begun operating special “evacuation” flights to clear the backlog of stranded international travelers.