I want to share how I, as a father, expat, and believer, am thinking through what’s happening in Dubai right now. It’s my honest perspective, and maybe it can help a few families like mine navigate this uncertain time.
With the turn of events and the news today, I feel that the risk is elevated but still controlled.
Why I Think the Situation is Controlled
• The UAE has strong air defense systems
• Most missiles and drones are intercepted
• Daily life in Dubai seems to continue
But there are realities we cannot ignore:
• The ongoing conflict in the Gulf region affects the area, no doubt
• Debris from interceptions can still fall anywhere in the city
• Iran has warned of more targeting of US military assets in the Gulf
So logically, the probability of direct harm is still low, but not zero.
Two Realistic Choices for a Family Man
Option A: Stay in Dubai
Reasons to choose this:
• Confidence in UAE government’s capability
• Security systems are strong
• Work and daily routines continue
• An unplanned move can disrupt finances and family life
This option works if:
• You trust the government’s ability to manage the situation
• Your anxiety level is manageable
• Schools and work continue normally (even if they shift to a remote setup)
Option B: Temporarily Fly to the Philippines
Reasons to choose this:
• Helps with the kids’ emotional stress
• Reduces anxiety if things escalate
• Gives parents peace of mind
This option works if:
• Your stress level is already high
• You want to reduce risk exposure for your family
• You have a good support system back home
Many expats find a middle ground: the father stays for work while the wife and kids temporarily move back home.
The Peace of Mind Question
This is the part I take most seriously.
If every night I’m thinking,
“What if something happens to my kids?”
then my mind will never rest.
But if I feel,
“The risk is small and we are prepared,”
then staying is reasonable.
A father’s job is not to remove all risk — that’s impossible.
It’s to manage risks wisely.
How My Faith Comes Into Play
For me, faith does not mean ignoring danger.
Faith means trusting God while acting wisely.
The Bible teaches trust in God, but it also teaches prudence:
“The prudent see danger and take refuge.” — Proverbs
Another verse many of us lean on:
“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7
A sound mind is part of faith. Faith should help us stay calm and rational, not reckless.
Jesus also reminds us:
“Do not worry about tomorrow…” — Matthew 6:34
This is not a call to be passive. It’s a reminder not to live in fear.
What I Personally Do Right Now
1. Seek Wisdom, Not Panic
I pray for discernment and clarity so emotions do not cloud my decisions.
2. Prepare Responsibly
• Monitor official UAE updates
• Keep passports and Emirates IDs ready
• Track flight options in case we need to move fast
Preparation is not lack of faith. It’s stewardship of family.
3. Lead My Family Calmly
Kids mirror our emotions. My goal is to give them stability, whether we stay in Dubai or fly to the Philippines.
I want them to feel that we are prepared and trusting God at the same time
One Practical Reality
If the situation escalates, the real challenge will be securing flights as thousands attempt to leave at the same time.
Airspace may be restricted. Airlines may cancel flights. Seats could run out quickly.
Monitoring flights early is a good strategy, not paranoia.
Early Preparations
1. Ensure the Ability to Leave
• Check flights regularly
• Consider other airports if possible
• Make sure work allows remote setup
2. Set a Trigger Point
Act only if certain conditions happen, such as:
• Interception rates drop
• Schools or work get disrupted
• Government issues evacuation advisories
• Family’s anxiety level rises
Kids do not need us to make perfect decisions.
They need fathers (and mothers) to:
Stay or Leave Temporarily
If one day I decide to leave temporarily, it does not mean I love the UAE any less.
It simply means I am doing what every father is called to do:
Protect what God entrusted to me first.
Our loyalty to a country can be deep, but our responsibility to our family will always be deeper.
Whether we stay or temporarily leave, if your heart is in the right place, it will always be a responsible choice.
