Retaliatory strikes launched by Iran have triggered severe tensions across the Gulf region, impacting major cities including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Authorities confirmed that ballistic missiles struck Dubai International Airport, causing partial structural damage inside the terminal and injuring four people. Flight operations were immediately suspended, and passengers were evacuated as emergency teams moved swiftly to secure the premises and contain the situation.
Officials said missile and drone attacks caused limited damage to airport infrastructure, with security forces bringing the situation under control shortly after the strikes. Drone debris also fell on the iconic Burj Al Arab, sparking a fire on the hotel’s exterior after the unmanned aerial vehicle was intercepted mid-air; authorities confirmed that no casualties were reported at the site.
In the UAE capital, an attack near Zayed International Airport resulted in the death of one Asian national and injuries to seven others, according to preliminary reports, although an initial official social media post detailing the casualties was later removed. Missile fragments also ignited a blaze at a berth in Jebel Ali Port, which was subsequently extinguished by fire crews.
The escalation has led to widespread disruption of air traffic across West Asia, with airlines cancelling services to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha on security grounds, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The UAE government has declared a nationwide high alert and urged residents to remain indoors, while the United Nations condemned the attacks and called for urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.