Dubai Safety Concerns Mount Following Iranian Retaliatory Strikes
British tourists and expatriates residing in the popular Gulf state of Dubai are confronting significant uncertainty and turmoil in the wake of a series of missile attacks launched by Iran across the Middle East. These retaliatory strikes were triggered by a joint Israeli and American military operation targeting the Iranian capital and other cities earlier today.
Immediate Impact on British Nationals
Approximately 240,000 British nationals are believed to be living in Dubai, with thousands more traveling through its airports daily. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has issued urgent guidance, instructing all British citizens in the United Arab Emirates to immediately shelter in place. The advisory urges people to remain indoors in secure locations, avoid all travel, and strictly follow instructions from local authorities as the situation develops.
The FCDO warning states: "Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in UAE should immediately shelter in place. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities."
Disruption to Travel and Infrastructure
Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport have suspended all flight operations until further notice, creating a travel nightmare for tourists and residents alike. Major airlines including Emirates, British Airways, and Wizz Air have halted services, with passengers advised not to proceed to airports and to contact their carriers directly for updates.
A spokesperson for Dubai Airports confirmed: "All flight operations at Dubai International and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International are suspended until further notice. Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport at this time."
Reports of Damage and Casualties
Iranian state media has indicated that Dubai was among several locations targeted in Tehran's retaliatory strikes, though specific targets were not disclosed. The UAE Ministry of Defence reported successfully intercepting several Iranian missiles and drones. However, falling debris from these interceptions has caused significant incidents.
- A fire broke out at the luxury Fairmont Hotel on Dubai's Palm complex, reportedly ignited by falling debris. Dubai's Media Office confirmed four injuries and stated emergency services had the blaze under control.
- In Abu Dhabi, falling debris resulted in material damage and the death of an Asian national, according to Emirati defence authorities.
Heightened Security and Terror Threat
The Foreign Office has emphasized that there remains a high threat of terrorist attacks globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, with specific warnings about the UAE. The FCDO advisory notes: "Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in the United Arab Emirates. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals."
Due to increasing regional tensions, the guidance specifically mentions that Israeli and Jewish-linked sites could be potential targets for terrorist activities within the UAE.
Broader Regional Context
The current crisis stems from this morning's joint military action by Israel and the United States against Iranian targets. Iran's subsequent retaliation has targeted US and Israeli military bases across the Middle East, including locations within popular tourist destinations like the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.
The FCDO has warned of a heightened risk of regional tension that could lead to further travel disruption and other unanticipated impacts. British nationals are advised to take sensible precautions, check local media regularly, ensure travel documents are current, and be prepared to seek shelter if necessary.
The office added: "An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection."
