Major regions of the Middle East including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Manama, Doha, Riyadh and Amman experienced several loud explosions following the joint US-Israeli strike on Iran, according to regional reports. One civilian was also killed in Abu Dhabi.
The UAE Ministry of Defense (MOD) said the country was attacked by Iranian ballistic missiles while its air defense systems responded and intercepted several missiles. Authorities were also dealing with rocket debris falling in a residential area, which resulted in some material damage, ANI reported.
Viral videos on social media captured smoke and flames outside a Dubai hotel.
Footage on social media shows a fire at the entrance of a famous Dubai hotel, allegedly caused by an Iranian airstrike, as Tehran carries out retaliatory strikes in response to a series of US and Israeli strikes.
According to The Independent, a video has emerged showing a projectile striking outside the Fairmont The Palm hotel in Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah area.
Meanwhile, several reports indicate an evacuation at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The Sunday Guardian reports that authorities evacuated visitors and staff after nearby rocket activity and explosions.
Police closed surrounding streets and advised residents to remain calm during the investigation, the release added.
Flight operations halted
With tensions heightened in the Middle East, Dubai International Airport – the world’s busiest international travel hub – was seen above ground in the Persian Gulf, halting operations and under fire from air defenses.
In a statement, Dubai Airports announced that all flight operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) are suspended until further notice.
“Dubai Airports confirms that all flight operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice. Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport at this time and to contact their respective airlines directly for the latest updates on their flights. We appreciate the cooperation of our guests. Further updates will be provided as we continue to monitor the situation,” the statement said.
Iraq, Syria, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates announced at least a partial closure of their airspace after seeing smoke over Tehran and Iranian retaliatory strikes across the region.
