Iranian Missile Attack Sparks Panic in Dubai, Airspace Closed
In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Dubai and Abu Dhabi were targeted by Iranian missile attacks on Saturday, February 28, 2026, leading to widespread panic, explosions, and the closure of UAE airspace. The attacks come in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes aimed at toppling Iran's regime, with grave warnings of retaliation now realized.
Explosions and Fires Rock Dubai
Eyewitnesses reported at least three large blasts over Dubai, with air raid sirens sounding and people filmed running for shelter in scenes few imagined possible in the bustling city. A fire broke out near the entrance of the Fairmont The Palm hotel after debris reportedly fell from the sky during the missile attack. Photos and videos verified by Sky News showed a large blaze and smoke rising from outside the building, prompting emergency response teams to address an "incident" in the Palm Jumeirah area, though details remain scarce.
According to the Tui website, the Fairmont The Palm is a luxury hotel featuring gourmet dining options, an award-winning spa, and pools with city views, highlighting the stark contrast between its usual tranquility and the current chaos.
Casualties and Regional Impact
In Abu Dhabi, a series of explosions were heard, with the UAE defence ministry confirming one person was killed by falling debris in a residential area after the country "successfully" intercepted Iranian missiles. The ministry affirmed its full readiness to deal with threats and take necessary measures to confront any attempts to undermine security and stability.
Residents described terrifying experiences, with one Abu Dhabi resident messaging, "The kids are terrified," after the sound of explosions. A second wave of missiles was seen flying over residential areas in Dubai, adding to the fear and uncertainty.
Airspace Closure and Travel Disruptions
The UAE's airspace is currently closed as a precautionary measure, according to the General Civil Aviation Authority, causing significant travel disruptions. Multiple airlines have cancelled flights serving Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the latter being the world's busiest travel hub, handling nearly 100 million passengers last year. Flight Radar shows empty airspace in neighbouring countries like Qatar, Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain, all of which reported deploying air defences to shoot down incoming Iranian missiles.
Flights have been turned around mid-air, and packed airliners bound for Qatar were returned to the terminal at Heathrow after being turned around on the tarmac, underscoring the widespread impact on global travel.
Safety Advice for British Citizens
The British Embassy in the UAE issued urgent travel advice, stating, "We are aware of missiles flying over the United Arab Emirates... British nationals are advised to shelter in place." Around 240,000 British citizens live in the UAE, and they have been advised to remain indoors or in a safe place, staying away from windows. The sense of safety, a key draw for expatriates, has been shattered today.
The country is also home to an estimated half a million Iranian citizens, many of whom are filled with fear and emotion amid the escalating conflict. As regional tensions reach a boiling point, people in the UAE are left hoping that America knows what it's doing, with the full consequences of this moment for Iran and the region still unknown.
