Television personality Vicky Pattison has shared a detailed account of her dramatic 11-hour escape from Dubai to Oman with husband Ercan, following the chaos sparked by Iranian missile strikes in the region. The 38-year-old revealed that their primary focus was returning home to the United Kingdom after three cancelled flights left them stranded.
Fleeing Rising Panic in Dubai
Pattison and her partner departed Dubai last week as the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran intensified, creating widespread disruption across the United Arab Emirates. In a series of Instagram posts, she described the "rising panic" that prompted their decision to seek an alternative route home.
The couple abandoned plans to travel to Australia or New Zealand, prioritising a swift and safe return to reunite with their beloved dogs, Milo and Max. They opted for a private transfer service, which cost approximately £130 per person and included a lengthy 2-3 hour border crossing process.
Making the Most of Oman
While awaiting their flight from Oman, Pattison and her husband explored local attractions, including snorkelling with turtles and visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. She expressed regret at not being able to explore more extensively, noting that their attention remained fixed on reaching the UK.
"Moments from Oman... Such a beautiful country and honestly, a shame that we didn't get to explore it more - our focus was getting home obviously," she wrote on Instagram. "But I'm really happy we made the most of our last couple of days while we waited for our flight."
Addressing Social Media Silence
Pattison apologised for her temporary absence from social media, explaining that she wished to avoid contributing to the heightened anxiety surrounding the situation. She emphasised her gratitude for the messages of concern from followers and acknowledged their privileged position in being able to leave.
"We're so sorry for our radio silence over the last week, with everything unfolding the way it was and changing so rapidly we desperately didn't want to say anything insensitive or hyperbolic that would add to the rising panic around the situation," she stated.
Criticism of Pet Abandonment
In a related development, Pattison strongly criticised expatriates in Dubai who have abandoned their pets amid the escalating crisis. She described the act as "shameful" and expressed hope that the animals would find better homes.
Animal welfare groups, including K9 Friends Dubai, have reported being overwhelmed by inquiries about pet abandonment and euthanasia. Volunteers highlighted the severe financial pressures on shelters, exacerbated by fundraising restrictions in the UAE.
Claire Hopkins, a Dubai resident who volunteers with animal organisations, noted that some veterinarians have received requests to euthanise healthy pets due to owners' unwillingness to manage relocation costs or paperwork. "I'm sorry to say that vets have had inquiries about euthanasia, which is disgusting," she remarked.
Looking Forward to Home
Pattison concluded her updates by expressing relief at finally making her way home and extending thoughts to others feeling fearful or unsettled globally. She thanked local authorities and resorts for their efforts in maintaining safety and providing information during the turbulent period.
"We are extremely grateful to be making our way home and are thinking of anyone feeling fearful or unsettled, anywhere in a world that is rapidly becoming an increasingly scary place to be," she wrote.
