Dubai's carefully maintained image of safety and stability was shattered on Saturday evening when Iranian drones and missiles struck several high-profile locations across the United Arab Emirates, killing at least one person and injuring about a dozen others. The attacks, which targeted the Gulf region as part of a broader escalation between Iran and Israel, prompted authorities to reassure residents and tourists that the situation was under control.
Tourists at five-star resorts on Palm Jumeirah were caught off guard as air defences activated and debris rained down. Natalia Veremeenko, staying near the Fairmont The Palm, initially mistook the explosions for fireworks. The hotel's entrance caught fire after what appeared to be a drone strike. 'At first we thought it was fireworks,' she said. 'They cleaned everything up quickly.'
Fires and smoke were reported at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports after drone debris struck the sites, killing one person and injuring about a dozen others, according to local authorities. Two further deaths were announced on Sunday. The Jebel Ali port, the busiest in the Middle East, also caught fire, and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel was struck by falling debris, prompting a brief fire.
By nightfall, luxury hotels were ushering guests into underground car parks and service corridors. 'A state of emergency, but make it fashion,' wrote one Russian lifestyle blogger, posting a photo of herself in silk pyjamas from a hotel basement. Rumours circulated that the Burj Khalifa had been hit, but these later proved false.
The UAE defence ministry said 137 missiles and 209 drones were fired towards UAE territory, with the majority intercepted. Authorities moved quickly to calm nerves, pledging flight reimbursements for affected travellers. 'You can return to normal now. The UAE is 100% safe,' wrote Emirati commentator Amjad Taha.
