[Editor’s Note: Stay updated with Khaleej Times live blog for the latest on the Red Fort explosion in Delhi.]
As reports of the blast near Delhi’s Red Fort surfaced on Monday evening, UAE residents originally from Delhi quickly contacted their families to ensure their safety.
Mohammed Faisal, living in Al Mamzar, Dubai, and originally from Daryaganj, close to the Red Fort, was about to finish work when he received news of the explosion in his hometown.
“A friend sent me links showing a blast near the Red Fort Metro Station. My parents live nearby, so I immediately called them,” said Faisal, a logistics manager in Dubai for eight years.
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His parents, in their late sixties, still reside in his childhood home. “My father answered right away and hadn’t heard about the blast until I told him. I felt relieved when he assured me they were safe,” Faisal explained.
“They heard sirens and saw police quickly on the scene. The neighborhood is under strict surveillance now,” he added. “Police advised residents to stay inside. Things have calmed, but tension lingers.”
Rajesh M, a marketing professional from South Delhi, reconsidered his travel plans to Noida after Monday’s blast. “I planned to go on November 20 for a local festival, but with high alerts, I’ve postponed it,” said Rajesh.
His parents planned a December visit to Dubai, but he wants them to come sooner. Rajesh shared, “Watching the footage makes you anxious, even from afar. Having lived in Delhi for ten years, Chandni Chowk feels like home.”
Imran Q, a restaurant owner in Abu Dhabi, spent the evening contacting family who run a textile business in Old Delhi. “They live near Jama Masjid. My uncle and cousins heard a loud bang during Isha preparations,” Imran recounted.
“Initially thinking it was a transformer or firecrackers, they realized its severity seeing police and the fleeing crowd,” he said.
The incident evoked memories of the 2020 unrest in Delhi. “We’ve faced tough times, but it’s different from afar. All you can do is call and pray,” he added.
Many UAE-based Indians spent the evening following news updates. Though they confirmed their families’ safety, unease lingered.
“Talking to families ensures peace of mind,” Faisal stated.
