At least one person was killed and seven others injured in the United Arab Emirates following Iranian missile and drone attacks, according to local media reports, according to news agency PTI.
The fatality reportedly occurred during an interception incident near Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, where debris from neutralised projectiles is believed to have caused the damage. However, official confirmation from UAE authorities on the casualty is still awaited.
Drone Attacks Target Key Locations Including Dubai
Multiple waves of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeted strategic locations across the UAE on Saturday night, including airports and critical infrastructure.
Dubai International Airport and the iconic Burj Al Arab were among the locations affected. Authorities said a drone caused shrapnel that sparked a fire at the Burj Al Arab hotel, which was later brought under control by emergency teams, reported PTI.
In a separate incident, debris from air defence operations caused a fire at a berth in Jebel Ali Port, though no injuries were reported there.
Air Defence Systems Intercept Majority of Threats
The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that its air force and air defence systems successfully intercepted the majority of incoming threats, reported PTI.
According to official data, 137 ballistic missiles were detected, of which 132 were destroyed and five fell into the sea. Additionally, 209 drones were identified, with 195 intercepted and 14 landing within UAE territory or waters, causing limited damage, reported PTI.
Authorities highlighted the high readiness and effectiveness of the country’s defence systems in mitigating large-scale threats.
Emergency Measures, Travel Disruptions and Public Advisory
Emergency response teams were immediately activated across affected areas, including airports, to manage the situation. Dubai Airports confirmed an incident at Dubai International Airport, where at least four people were injured and provided medical assistance.
Amid heightened alerts and intermittent sirens, residents remained on edge through the night. Authorities urged the public not to circulate outdated or misleading videos and assured that verified updates would be issued through official channels.
Schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been directed to switch to distance learning until Thursday as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, the UAE’s General Authority of Civil Aviation said it is supporting over 20,000 affected passengers due to flight disruptions by providing temporary accommodation, meals, and assistance with rebooking.
The situation remains under close monitoring as regional tensions continue to escalate.
(With inputs from PTI)