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| Li Mao Shares Anxious Update as Air Travel Disrupted in the UAE. (Image via: Douyin) |
Chinese actor Li Mao has found himself unable to return home after being stranded in Dubai due to sudden and widespread flight cancellations linked to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The disruption followed military strikes launched on February 28, which triggered regional instability and led to airport shutdowns and airspace restrictions across parts of the United Arab Emirates.
On the morning of March 1, Li Mao, formerly a member of popular C-pop group Top Combine and now active as a screen actor, posted a video update explaining that his scheduled early-morning flight from Dubai to Beijing had been abruptly cancelled.
A rebooked flight was also called off at the last minute, leaving him stuck overseas with limited options to get home.
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Speaking directly to fans, Li Mao admitted the situation had left him shaken. He shared that he had not slept through the night, anxiously waiting for updates as flights continued to be suspended.
According to him, only one early-morning Emirates flight the following day remained listed, but even that was uncertain.
Staying near Jumeirah Beach, he described hearing loud disturbances overnight and seeing disruption around major landmarks and the airport area, repeatedly saying he simply wanted to return home safely.
Local reports later confirmed that Li Mao had travelled to Dubai for a private holiday.
Meanwhile, netizens noticed that the social media account of his wife, Chinese singer Zhang Xianzi, showed her location as the UAE, fuelling speculation that the couple were travelling together on a family break when the situation escalated.
Reactions online have been mixed but largely supportive. Many fans expressed concern for Li Mao’s safety, flooding comment sections with messages urging him to stay calm and follow local guidance.
Some shared similar experiences of being stranded due to sudden flight suspensions, saying his update reflected the reality many travellers are facing right now.
Others praised Li Mao for speaking honestly and keeping fans informed, noting that his calm yet emotional tone made the situation feel very real. A few netizens also debated travel risks during unstable periods, while emphasising that unexpected disruptions can happen even on routine holidays.
As of now, Li Mao has not confirmed whether he has successfully boarded a return flight, but his message has already sparked wide discussion about travel uncertainty and safety abroad. If you were in his position, what would you do first — wait it out or look for alternative routes home?