The weekend began as usual in Dubai, with beach clubs at capacity and shoppers at the Dubai Mall. However, as the largest regional war since 2003 intensified, Iranian drones and missiles approached the Gulf states. Air defences in the UAE activated, with interceptors streaking into the night sky.
Tourists were caught off guard. Natalia Veremeenko, staying near the Fairmont The Palm, initially thought the fire from a drone strike was fireworks. Guests were ushered from exposed rooms into underground car parks. One Russian lifestyle blogger posted a photo from a hotel basement with the caption 'A state of emergency, but make it fashion'.
Fires and smoke were reported at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports after drone debris struck, killing one and injuring about a dozen. Two further deaths were announced on Sunday. The Jebel Ali port caught fire, and the Burj Al Arab was struck by falling debris, causing a brief fire.
The UAE defence ministry said 137 missiles and 209 drones were fired towards UAE territory, most intercepted. Authorities moved quickly to reassure residents and visitors. Emirati commentator Amjad Taha wrote on X: 'You can return to normal now. The UAE is 100% safe.'
