Missile debris across Dubai. Both airports closed. Emirates and flydubai grounded.
Dubai, home to approximately 3.6 million residents and one of the world's most visited cities, has been struck by Iranian missile debris following retaliatory ballistic missile launches aimed at UAE territory. The UAE's THAAD and Patriot air defense systems intercepted multiple incoming missiles, but falling debris and at least some missile components reached ground level in several areas. Explosions were reported in the Jebel Ali industrial zone, near Al Maktoum Bridge, and in residential areas of Jumeirah and Al Quoz.
Dubai International Airport (DXB), which served over 87 million passengers in 2024 and operates as the primary hub for Emirates airline, has halted all operations. The airport sits just 150 kilometers across the Persian Gulf from Iran, placing it well within range of Iran's ballistic missile arsenal. Dubai World Central (DWC) at Al Maktoum International is also shuttered. Hundreds of flights have been cancelled or diverted, stranding tens of thousands of passengers. The economic impact is severe given that aviation and tourism account for roughly 27% of Dubai's GDP.
The Dubai government has activated its emergency operations center and deployed civil defense teams across the emirate. Residents have been directed to designated shelters in metro stations and underground parking structures. The UAE Red Crescent and Dubai Health Authority are coordinating casualty treatment. The full extent of damage and casualties is still being assessed as the security situation remains fluid, with further Iranian missile launches considered possible.
Worldwide LNG exports have plunged in the past week to a six-month low as Middle Eastern supply collapsed with the de facto closed Strait of Hormuz and the outage at the world’s biggest LNG complex in Qatar. Global LNG shipments have plunged to about 1.
Iran says it launched multiple ballistic missile and drone strikes, targeting bases across Israel, UAE, and Kuwait.
Yes. Iran launched multiple waves of ballistic missiles targeting UAE territory. While UAE air defenses intercepted many incoming missiles, debris from intercepts and some warhead fragments impacted areas across Dubai, including neighborhoods near Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, and the Dubai Marina area. Damage assessments are ongoing.
Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world's busiest airport by international passenger traffic, has suspended all flight operations as of February 28, 2026. Dubai World Central (DWC / Al Maktoum International) is also closed. There is no estimated reopening time. Airlines are diverting flights to Oman, India, and other unaffected airports.
Dubai is under a heightened security alert. Residents and visitors are advised to shelter in place, stay away from windows, and monitor official channels from the UAE National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA). Multiple embassies have issued travel warnings advising against all travel to the UAE.
There is no confirmed timeline for flight resumptions. The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has stated that operations will resume only after a full security assessment. Airlines including Emirates, flydubai, and Etihad have suspended all flights until further notice. Passengers should contact their airlines directly for rebooking options.