DUBAI: Flights were temporarily suspended at Dubai International Airport on Monday after a drone attack struck a fuel tank near the facility, sparking a fire that authorities later brought under control.
Dubai’s media office said emergency teams responded quickly to the blaze and confirmed that no injuries were reported.
Dubai Airports announces the diversion of some flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 16, 2026
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced the suspension of flight operations as a precaution to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff.
Authorities later said the fire had been extinguished and the situation was under control.
The attack comes as the United Arab Emirates faces a wave of missile and drone strikes linked to the widening Middle East conflict.
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announces the temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. Travellers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding…
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 16, 2026
Hours after flights were suspended, Dubai authorities said the United Arab Emirates’ air defence systems were intercepting Iranian missiles and drones on Monday.
“UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran,” the UAE Ministry of Defence posted on X.
Iran has launched more than 1,800 missiles and drones toward the UAE since the war began, more than any other country targeted by Tehran in the conflict.
Although the UAE’s air defence systems have intercepted most of the projectiles, several attacks have struck or damaged civilian infrastructure.
Last week, two falling drones wounded four people near Dubai airport.
Iran has increasingly targeted infrastructure across the Gulf, including airports, ports, oil facilities, and major commercial sites, after US and Israeli strikes killed senior Iranian leaders and military officials.
The UAE defence ministry has reported six deaths since the war began, including four civilians and two military personnel who died in a helicopter crash attributed to a technical malfunction.
Regional tensions remain high as Gulf countries warn that attacks on civilian infrastructure risk further widening the conflict.
