Dubai
Flights suspended! Suspected drone attack close to Dubai International Airport triggers fire, no injury
A suspected drone strike on a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport (DXB) on Monday sparked a fire, prompting the temporary suspension of flights.
Authorities later confirmed that the blaze had been successfully contained, and no injuries were reported.
The Dubai Media Office confirmed the incident on X, stating: "A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport affected one of the fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defence teams are currently working to bring the fire under control. No injuries have been reported so far."
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
Following the strike, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority temporarily suspended flights at DXB as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff.
Travellers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for updates, while flights have been diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
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
The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East since the US and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on February 28.
A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB) affected one of the fuel tanks. Dubai Civil Defence teams are currently working to bring the fire under control. No injuries have been reported so far.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 16, 2026
In retaliation, Iran carried out drone and missile attacks on multiple countries in the region, including the UAE, targeting both civilian sites and US assets such as airports, ports, and oil facilities.
Dubai Civil Defence teams have since successfully contained the fire, and airport operations are gradually returning to normal.
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