Explosions rock Dubai, smoke seen over central district after drone interception
Buildings in Dubai shook on Friday after loud explosions were heard across parts of the city, with thick black smoke rising over a central district.
An AFP correspondent reported hearing a large double blast that rattled nearby buildings and left a cloud of smoke hanging over the area.
Authorities later said debris from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the exterior of a building in central Dubai.
🇮🇷🇺🇸🇦🇪| In response to bombing a bank in Tehran, Iran has struck a building in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), this morning, according to footages available online.
— Angelo Giuliano 🇨🇭🇮🇹 (@angeloinchina) March 13, 2026
It’s unclear yet what was struck, but it’s likely US/Israeli-related.
Credit Fotros resistance pic.twitter.com/1hheOVC2HF
In a post on X, the Dubai Media Office said, “Authorities confirm that debris from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the facade of a building in central Dubai. No injuries have been reported.”
Authorities confirm that debris from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the façade of a building in central Dubai. No injuries have been reported.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 13, 2026
Emergency sirens were heard near Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s main highway, according to AFP.
Police cordoned off the affected area following the blasts. The incident reportedly occurred near the Dubai International Financial Centre, where a building sustained noticeable damage.
Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported.
The development comes a day after Dubai authorities reported a “minor drone incident” in the Al Bada’a area.
At the time, officials said emergency teams were responding but confirmed there were no casualties.
The Gulf region has faced increasing security concerns since the Middle East conflict escalated on February 28, involving Iran, Israel and the United States.
According to reports, at least 24 people have been killed across the region, including seven US service members and 11 civilians.
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