Dubai: The iconic Burj Khalifa was evacuated on Saturday after explosions rocked parts of Dubai amid a wave of Iranian missile strikes across the Gulf region, dramatically escalating tensions and disrupting civilian life.
Residents reported multiple powerful blasts strong enough to shake buildings and rattle windows. Some witnesses said missiles were visible streaking across the night sky as air defence systems were activated.
Dubai Airport Suspends All Flights
Shortly after the explosions, operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB) — the world’s busiest international aviation hub — were suspended indefinitely. Authorities also halted flights at Al Maktoum International Airport, citing passenger safety as the top priority.
Thousands of travelers were left stranded inside terminals, with chaotic scenes unfolding in departure halls. Airport officials urged passengers not to head to the airport and instead contact airlines directly for updates.
The shutdown has sent shockwaves through global aviation, with major carriers temporarily grounding flights to and from Dubai.
Burj Khalifa Evacuated As Israel Iran Conflict Reaches Dubai’s Doorstep https://t.co/NpVMWS7exT pic.twitter.com/a1hbWAWFOl
— NDTV WORLD (@NDTVWORLD) February 28, 2026
Retaliation After Regional Escalation
The missile barrage followed coordinated US–Israeli strikes on Iranian positions earlier in the day, marking a sharp escalation in the ongoing Middle East conflict. Iran responded with ballistic missile launches targeting American military installations and allied sites across Gulf nations.
Explosions were reported in Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh and Manama, signaling the confrontation’s rapid expansion across the region.
Civilian Casualty in Abu Dhabi
In the UAE, air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles. However, falling debris reportedly killed at least one civilian in Abu Dhabi, according to defence authorities, underlining the growing risks to civilian populations.
BREAKING:
Dubai, right now. pic.twitter.com/QFRiiCaSX4
— Globe Eye News (@GlobeEyeNews) February 28, 2026
US Military Sites Targeted
Missiles were reportedly aimed at facilities hosting American forces, including:
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Al Dhafra Air Base
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Al Udeid Air Base
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The US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain’s Juffair district
Qatar confirmed successful interception of incoming projectiles, reporting no civilian casualties. Regional governments condemned the strikes, calling them a dangerous escalation.
Global Travel Disrupted
The closure of DXB — a key international transit hub — has disrupted flight networks worldwide. Airlines advised passengers to monitor official updates rather than travel to airports until operations resume.
With military alerts active and diplomatic tensions soaring, the Gulf now stands on edge as the crisis deepens.
