Mass Flight Suspension at Dubai Airport Following Drone Attack
Flights were abruptly suspended at Dubai International Airport on Saturday, 07 March 2026, after a drone strike appeared to hit nearby, causing blasts heard across the city. Passengers were moved into tunnels for safety as chaos ensued at one of the world's busiest aviation hubs.
UAE Activates Air Defences Amid Regional Strikes
The United Arab Emirates government activated air defences in response to Iranian strikes targeting Gulf states. These attacks were reportedly in retaliation for a joint Israel-US bombing campaign, escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Long-haul carrier Emirates later resumed operations, but Dubai Airports advised travellers to only come to the airport if their flight was confirmed, highlighting ongoing disruptions.
Iran's Apology and US-Israel Arms Deal
Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian apologised for the country's attacks on regional states, attributing them to miscommunication and rejecting US demands for unconditional surrender. Meanwhile, the US administration approved a new £112 million arms sale to Israel, with a US president stating Iran would be "hit very hard" today.
Death tolls continued to rise across Iran, Lebanon, and Israel, underscoring the severe humanitarian impact of the conflict.
Passenger Experiences and Airport Recovery
Passengers from a second plane returning to Ireland expressed relief, with one stating, "So happy to be home," after the ordeal. The incident has raised concerns about aviation security and regional stability, as authorities work to restore normal operations at Dubai airport.
