Credited from: INDIATIMES
Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab and its international airport faced significant damage due to Iranian drone and missile strikes on February 28. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that debris from an intercepted drone caused a minor fire at the Burj Al Arab's outer facade. Emergency services swiftly contained the incident without any reported injuries at the hotel. This attack was part of a broader wave of missile attacks targeting various locations in the UAE, which included four injuries at Dubai International Airport, according to Indiatimes, Le Monde, and Reuters.
The attacks reportedly involved 137 missiles and 209 drones launched from Iran, with most intercepted by UAE defense systems, as described by various reports. Witnesses on Dubai's Palm Jumeirah noted explosions and smoke at luxury hotels, further intensifying concerns over safety in one of the world's busiest tourism hubs. The UAE authorities confirmed the fires resulting from drone debris at both the Burj Al Arab and Dubai's Jebel Ali Port, where immediate response by civil defense teams mitigated the situation. No serious injuries were reported following these incidents according to Le Monde and Reuters.
The escalations have prompted concerns among residents, who were urged to seek shelter due to potential missile threats. Messages circulated warning individuals to "steer away from windows, doors, and open areas," indicating the severity of ongoing hostilities. Dubai’s strategic importance, particularly concerning its tourism and trade sectors, underlines the potential economic implications of these military actions, as around 60% of the emirate's revenues stem from its airport and seaport, as noted by Indiatimes and Reuters.