What may look like a simple family gathering from afar is actually something far more extraordinary.A sprawling 80,000-square-foot farmhouse in Ajman has quietly turned into a temporary refuge for stranded tourists in the UAE, offering free accommodation, meals and even luxury rides to those unable to return home amid regional geopolitical tensions.Every few hours, new travellers arrive at the gates. Some are picked up directly from hotels, occasionally in a Rolls-Royce.

A farmhouse turned sanctuary

From the outside, the property in Helio 2 might look like a large home hosting guests. Step inside and the reality is different.Mattresses line the halls and tents, while travellers from different parts of India cook together in the kitchen. The atmosphere resembles a community gathering rather than an emergency shelter. Some begin their mornings with yoga, while others unwind in the evening watching movies or cricket matches.Behind this initiative is Dr Dhiraj Jain, chairman of 1XL Holdings, who owns the farmhouse and has been living in the UAE for 11 years now.For nearly a week, Jain, who originally hails from Rajasthan, India has opened the doors of his residence to tourists unable to fly home due to airspace closures and limited flights, leaving many stranded across the UAE. “We want the guests not to have a negative mindset. We want them to feel like they are staying in their second home,” said Jain to Khaleej Times.

A heart full of hope

To help tourists reach the farmhouse, Jain has deployed 11 vehicles, including six Rolls-Royce cars to pick up stranded travellers from hotels and other locations across the city. “The cars run multiple trips, bringing tourists who have run out of accommodation or need a place to stay until their flights resume.”The initiative began on February 28, as travel disruptions worsened and many tourists realised they would not be able to return home as planned. “At around 9.30 pm, we sent a message that people could come to the farmhouse. Around 100 people confirmed they would come, but the situation was good and people cancelled. The next day, the first group started arriving,” he shared.

Inside the makeshift refuge

The house includes 11 bedrooms and 4 large halls, all of which have been converted into sleeping areas. It was equipped with around 500 mattresses and 700 blankets to accommodate the increasing number of guests. Meals are also arranged on a large scale with Jain having contacted suppliers and grocery stores to ensure supply. “We arranged around 10,000 meals so far,” he said. Washroom facilities posed a problem but the family ordered portable washrooms to offer comfort. At its peak, the farmhouse has hosted around 260 people. On Monday, 150 travellers flew back home, reducing the current number of guests to about 90. However, another group of about 85 travellers is bout to arrive soon.

A family mission

The effort has transformed into a family mission with Jain’s wife Mamata, their son Jainam and daughter Jivika helping along with other relatives and friends offering volunteering. “We wake up at around 6 am and work until midnight,” said Jain.Despite the long days, the mission remains clear. According to him, the support will continue until every last stranded passenger can finally fly home.