Dubai’s image as a haven of calm in the Middle East has suffered a sharp blow. Satellite images taken on February 24 showed clear skies, busy highways, and glittering towers. By March 1, dark plumes of smoke rose above parts of the skyline.
Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles across the Gulf. The barrage came in response to US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Air defence systems intercepted most of the projectiles. However, falling debris damaged areas near the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
Residents said loud blasts jolted them awake. Interceptor missiles streaked across the night sky. Videos of fires spread quickly on social media. Dubai’s media office warned against sharing misleading footage. Officials threatened legal action against violators.
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources advised private companies to adopt remote work until Tuesday. Streets appeared quieter than usual as tensions spread across the Gulf.
The conflict escalated after US and Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran vowed revenge and targeted Israel and Gulf states hosting US forces. The US military confirmed three American service members died. Iranian authorities reported more than 200 deaths since the strikes began.
