UAE reports massive missile and drone assault as smoke rises over Dubai Port
The conflict in West Asia entered its third day with intense exchanges. The United Arab Emirates confirmed a large-scale Iranian assault targeting key locations across the country. Officials said Iran launched 22 missiles and 311 drones in a coordinated attack.
According to the UAE Defence Ministry, air defence units intercepted most incoming threats. Forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles. They pushed eight missiles into the sea. They also neutralised two cruise missiles. In addition, they shot down 311 drones during the assault. However, 21 drones struck civilian areas despite the defensive response.
Soon after, satellite images captured thick black smoke rising over an industrial zone near Dubai’s main port. Explosions echoed across parts of the city. Journalists on the ground reported multiple loud blasts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Sirens also sounded in Manama, while residents in Doha heard distant explosions.
In response, the UAE shut its embassy in Tehran. Authorities also summoned Iran’s envoy in Abu Dhabi and lodged a formal protest. Officials described the strikes as terrorist attacks and condemned Tehran’s actions.
The financial sector reacted quickly. Authorities suspended trading on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market until March 3. Officials said they took the step to maintain stability amid heightened uncertainty.
Meanwhile, casualties emerged. Local media confirmed three deaths in the UAE following the strikes. Hospitals treated several injured residents in different emirates.
Iran launched the barrage after the United States and Israel carried out joint military operations against Iranian targets. Tehran targeted US-linked facilities across the Gulf in retaliation. Due to the heavy American presence in the region, multiple Gulf states strengthened security.
Dubai, the UAE’s economic hub, faced direct impact. Authorities reported partial damage at Dubai International Airport. An aerial strike hit one concourse of the main terminal. Airport officials said crews quickly contained the damage. Four airport employees sustained injuries.
In Abu Dhabi, officials confirmed one fatality at the airport and seven injuries linked to an incident during the assault. Emergency teams responded swiftly and secured the premises.
Landmarks also came under threat. The Defence Ministry reported fires near Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. Witnesses described plumes of smoke rising from a hotel on the Palm. Ambulances rushed toward the area. Dubai Civil Defence later controlled the fire. Four people suffered injuries and received medical care.
Elsewhere in the Gulf, Kuwait’s civil aviation authority reported a drone strike at its airport. Authorities noted minor injuries and limited structural damage.
Amid the escalating conflict, several Indian nationals remain stranded in the region. Some Indian public figures shared updates about their safety. Families in India expressed concern as flight operations faced disruption.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said the government continues efforts to ensure the safe return of Indians. He described the situation as volatile and warned that flight operations pose risks under current conditions.
As tensions deepen, Gulf nations maintain high alert. Defence forces continue monitoring airspace. Authorities urge residents to remain indoors and follow official advisories. For now, diplomatic channels show little progress. The region braces for further developments as both sides exchange threats and strikes.
