Bangladesh national team veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim has returned home safely after being stranded for two days at Jeddah airport due to widespread flight disruptions triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Mushfiqur had travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. While attempting to return to Dhaka via Dubai on 28 February, his Emirates flight was forced to turn back to Jeddah amid sudden airspace restrictions and operational suspensions linked to regional security concerns.
Following the unexpected disruption, he remained in Saudi Arabia as airlines temporarily halted or rerouted several flights in the region.
During his stay, uncertainty over flight schedules persisted, leaving passengers including Mushfiqur waiting for updates on resumption of services.
The cricketer later informed his followers through social media that he was finally preparing to travel back home.
He confirmed late Sunday night that his return journey was underway and subsequently arrived in Dhaka on Monday.
Earlier, Mushfiqur had spoken with State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque, who assured him of support to facilitate his safe and timely return amid the travel disruption.
The incident highlighted how ongoing geopolitical instability has affected international air travel, causing temporary hardship for passengers across the region. With flight operations gradually stabilising, affected travellers have begun returning home as airlines resume normal schedules under improved security assessments.