Meet Dhiraj Jain: Dubai businessman who opened his farmhouse to 300 stranded tourists and became a lifeline during the UAE crisis

Dhiraj Jain, a Dubai-based businessman and real estate developer, unknowingly became the lifeline for hundreds of people as Iran launched its missile attacks on February 28, 2026. The airspace was shut down over the UAE, and flights were cancelled. Tourists from India were stranded with no immediate accommodation available. The majority would have reacted differently by either panicking or looking to book temporary accommodation. However, Dhiraj Jain reacted differently. He decided to open his 11-room farmhouse in Ajman to anyone in need.

Friends, family, and staff rallied to help. Mattresses were spread across the halls and tents. Portable toilets were brought in. Food was prepared in bulk. Volunteers worked day and night organising supplies and checking on guests. It seems almost every part of the property was used to ensure comfort and safety. For nearly a week, the farmhouse transformed into a bustling sanctuary for nearly 300 people.

Dhiraj Jain becomes Anand Mahindra’s ‘Monday Motivation’ for helping stranded tourists

Jain’s action is similar to the kind of entrepreneurial spirit that Anand Mahindra, among many others, praises. Jain, like Mahindra’s examples, took action immediately without waiting to receive orders. His wife, Mamta, and his children, Jainam and Jivika, were said to help in arranging activities that would lift the spirits of people. There were yoga exercises in the morning, games like musical chairs and badminton, and even movie nights in the evenings. Cricket matches were cause for celebration, especially if India won the tense T20 World Cup semi-final. While these activities were simple in nature, they were said to offer relief to tourists affected by both the strikes and the uncertainty of their travels.

It’s easy to say “just feed people,” but managing nearly 300 guests is a logistical challenge. Jain and his helpers reportedly brought in 2,000kg of flour, 1,500kg of rice, 800 litres of cooking oil, 500kg of sugar, 300kg of lentils, 200kg of pickles, 100kg of coffee, and 50kg of turmeric. Thirty thousand disposable plates and 50,000 spoons were used. Meals were prepared three times a day, and the family ensured they were nutritious and filling. Medical checks were also arranged, as stress and anxiety ran high among visitors, ranging from children barely a year old to seniors over 70.

Volunteers and community groups helped Dhiraj Jain support tourists

While Jain and his family were the main hosts, the effort was bolstered by volunteers and community groups. Shilpa Nair, national vice president of the India People’s Forum, reportedly coordinated with the Indian consulate to direct stranded tourists to Jain’s farmhouse. WhatsApp and community groups spread the word quickly. It seems many people arrived in panic, unsure of what to do, carrying luggage, exhausted from travel delays, and worried about accommodation and safety. Thanks to this coordination and Jain’s generosity, hundreds found shelter almost immediately.

The UAE government also played a role. Accommodation costs for stranded tourists were reportedly covered, visa overstays waived, and limited flights gradually resumed by March 7. But Jain’s farmhouse reportedly became a preferred choice because of the personal attention, warm meals, shared spaces, and a sense of community support.

Dhiraj Jain made tourists feel at home and safe

Tourists who stayed with the Jains later described the experience as comforting and secure. Seema Oza, visiting from Mumbai, reportedly said she felt at peace being among people rather than isolated in a hotel. Anil Kumar from Uttar Pradesh described it as “feeling like family,” despite the outside chaos. The family reportedly slept alongside guests, checked food personally, and stayed available for any emergencies.

Small touches made a big difference. Counsellors were arranged for distressed visitors. Children had games, adults had conversations, and the communal spirit helped everyone cope. Some visitors also said the warm meals, constant reassurance, and friendly environment helped reduce anxiety and brought a sense of normalcy.