UAE Under Attack: Iran Strikes, Airport Damage, Flights Suspended
UAE faces Iranian attacks, disrupting travel and business.
Top Summary
- What happened: Iran launched missile and drone attacks on the UAE, targeting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes.
- Why it matters: The attacks shatter the UAE's image as a safe haven and escalate tensions in the Middle East, impacting global markets and travel.
- What changes for people: Flights are suspended, businesses shift to hybrid mode, and residents face potential missile threats and emergency alerts.
- Who is affected: UAE residents, Indian tourists and workers, travelers, airlines, businesses, and global financial markets.
UAE Under Fire: Iranian Retaliation Intensifies
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is grappling with a series of Iranian missile and drone attacks, a direct response to the joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The conflict, now in its third day, has caused significant disruption and raised serious concerns about regional stability.
The UAE has closed its embassy in Tehran and summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest against what it calls “Iran’s terrorist attacks.”
Air Defense Interceptions and Civilian Impact
The UAE Air Defence Forces claim to have intercepted a significant number of projectiles. Local media reports state they destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, downed 8 into the sea, and neutralized 2 cruise missiles.
They also intercepted 311 drones during the coordinated assault. Despite these efforts, 21 drones reportedly struck civilian targets.
A satellite image revealed thick, black smoke rising over an industrial area in Dubai.
Airport Damage and Travel Chaos
Dubai International Airport, a major global aviation hub, sustained partial damage due to a suspected aerial strike on one of its main terminal buildings. Authorities confirmed that one concourse “sustained minor damage in an incident, which was quickly contained.”
Four employees sustained injuries in the incident. One person was killed at the Abu Dhabi airport and seven wounded during what authorities called an “incident.”
Kuwait’s civil aviation authority reported a drone hit its airport, causing minor injuries and “limited” damages to the passenger building.
Airlines are facing major disruptions, with many suspending flights to and from UAE airports. Akasa Air has suspended all flights to Abu Dhabi until March 3. Passengers can reschedule or get full refunds for flights to the Middle East till March 5, according to Air India.
- Etihad suspends flights to and from Abu Dhabi
- Swiss airlines suspends DubaI flights till March 4
- Flights from Chandigarh to Dubai, Abu Dhabi suspended
Economic Fallout and Safety Measures
Trading on the UAE’s two main exchanges, Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) and Dubai Financial Market (DFM), has been suspended until Tuesday, March 3.
UAE companies are shifting to hybrid work models, and workers are being urged to avoid exposed areas. Dubai Police are warning of fraudsters posing as “crisis management” officials.
Casualties and Indian Nationals Stranded
Sadly, three people have been killed in the UAE so far as a result of the Iranian strikes. An Indian national is among 58 foreign workers injured in the UAE.
Several Indian tourists and industrialists are currently stranded in Dubai. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has stated that the Centre is making continuous efforts to ensure the safe return of Indians stranded, calling the situation “volatile”.
"We are deeply concerned, although civilians are known to be safe in Dubai. Let's see when the flight operations resume," said Raj Chakraborty, TMC legislator.
International Response and Diplomacy
Prime Minister Modi has spoken to Netanyahu, calling for a “cessation of hostilities”.
The UAE President and President Trump have also spoken amid the escalating Middle East tensions.
Jordan has summoned the Iranian charge d’affaires, and Kuwait has announced precautionary measures.
Landmark Attacks
The UAE defence ministry said fires and smoke were seen at landmarks such as The Palm seafront development and Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, AFP reported. Loud explosions were also heard along with plumes of smoke rising near Dubai's famed man-made island, The Palm, with authorities reporting four injured.
"Dubai Civil Defence has confirmed that the resulting fire is now under control. Four individuals sustained injuries and have been transferred to medical facilities," it said.
What to Watch Next
The situation remains highly volatile, and further escalations are possible. The international community is urging de-escalation, and diplomatic efforts are underway to find a resolution. Keep an eye on flight resumption announcements and further security advisories from the UAE government.