Rio Ferdinand's wife, Kate, has shared a statement with her fans after enduring a 'scary' night in their Dubai home during Iran's missile strikes over the weekend.
The 34-year-old moved to the United Arab Emirates-based city with her Manchester United legend husband last year. Rio, 47, explained the move away from the UK was for an improved lifestyle and the schools for his young children.
However, things got terrifying in the world as Iran launched several missile strikes across the Middle East in retaliation for the USA and Israel's attack on their country. Kate and Rio's family were among those fearing the worst as they took action.
Rio and Kate Ferdinand's Family in 'Very Scary' Experience
Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand
In a statement posted to her Instagram account, Kate provided an update on the family's situation. The social media influencer and her ex-footballer partner live in Dubai with their two children Cree (five) and Shae (two), as well as Rio’s 14-year-old daughter, Tia, from his first marriage.
Kate posted: "Thank you for all of your messages and sorry for the silence, I haven’t wanted to worry you all I just haven’t been able to find the words. We are safe. The government are doing an amazing job of keeping it that way and despite my nerves I feel we are in very safe hands."
After confirming they were safe, she revealed the family had slept in the basement of their house for a night. Her post continued:
"We are hoping for a calmer evening tonight, last night was very scary. Although Cree and Shae loved it, as they couldn’t believe we all got a sleepover in the basement.
"Thank you for all of your prayers, this whole experience is very eye-opening and I am praying for anyone affected. Lots of love to everyone."
Kate Already Revealed Her Struggles After Dubai Move
rio ferdinand man utd
Speaking in early February, Kate revealed that she had been struggling with the decision to leave the UK, claiming: "I just miss my family and friends," before adding: "I do feel happy in Dubai, but I'm just missing a part of me."
She added that Rio 'loves' his new life after walking away from his TNT Sports job at the end of the 2024-25 season. Kate opened up on missing Rio's two older sons, Lorenz and Tate, who stayed in the UK to pursue football careers.
"I think it's an amazing place to live, I think it's amazing for the children. The children are thriving and happy and living a life of just outside freedom.
"Rio loves it so much. I am enjoying it, but I miss home quite a lot. I get upset. I miss the big boys a lot and I'm just struggling with that. I know this decision is right for my younger children and as a family we are settled there, but the boys are following their football careers."