Loud explosions were heard in Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, March 3, according to AFP reporters and residents. Explosions were heard in Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi as Iran pressed a campaign of missile and drone fire across the Persian Gulf in retaliation for strikes launched by Israel and the United States on February 28.
Journalists heard loud explosions echoing in the Qatari capital and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, while two residents told AFP they heard explosions in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi.
A fire in Dubai near the US consulate has been extinguished following a drone-related incident
Dubai authorities have confirmed that a fire caused by a drone-related incident near the US consulate has been successfully contained.
Response teams were deployed immediately after the incident was reported and managed to bring the situation under control, officials said.
Authorities said no injuries were reported in connection with the fire. Additional details about the cause of the drone-related incident were not immediately released.
Officials added that the situation is being monitored as the investigation continues.
Earlier, the Dubai Media Authority said that the sounds heard in Dubai were the result of interception by the air defense. No cause has yet been released for the reported explosions in Abu Dhabi and Doha.
The Dubai Media Office said: “Dubai authorities confirm that the sounds heard in various areas across the city were the result of air defense operations. The relevant Dubai teams continue to closely monitor the situation and take all necessary measures to ensure public safety. The public is advised to rely exclusively on official sources for accurate updates.”
On Saturday, February 28, the United States and Israel launched joint strikes against several locations in Tehran, also targeting the residence of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, killing him and some of his family members.
In retaliation, Iran launched a barrage of missiles and drones across Middle Eastern countries targeting US military bases.
Dubai Airports will issue passenger information as soon as limited operations resume
The Dubai Airports Authority has issued a detailed warning to travelers as limited flight operations have resumed at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), urging travelers to check with their airlines before traveling to the airport.
Officials clarified that passengers should not travel to the airport unless their airline confirms that the flight is operational.
“If your airline has not confirmed that your flight is operational, please do not travel to the airport. You will be turned away without confirmation,” the alert said.
Operations are gradually expanding
Authorities said operations are gradually being resumed in coordination with airlines and relevant agencies. They added that the situation is being closely monitored and updates will be shared through official channels.
Flight schedules may continue to change
Passengers have been warned that timetables may remain fluid even after service resumes.
“Flight schedules may continue to change as airlines relocate aircraft and rebalance networks. Please continue to check your airline’s website or app,” the alert said.
Priority before departing flights
Departing flights have priority during the restart phase, with movements expected to gradually increase depending on airspace availability and operational capacity.
Authorities emphasized that individual flight operations are determined by airlines based on aircraft location, crew availability and airspace conditions.
Officials cautioned that conditions in aviation remain dynamic and temporary adjustments, including possible suspensions, may occur. Travelers are advised to rely solely on airline communications for real-time updates prior to travel.
The alert comes amid regional disruptions affecting air travel in parts of the Middle East, prompting authorities to manage operations cautiously and prioritize passenger safety.
Read also | UAE markets to resume trading on March 4 after closure of Iran crisis
