Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, temporarily suspended operations on Monday after a drone strike ignited a fuel tank fire, intensifying concerns about aviation safety amid escalating conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that flights were halted following the early-morning attack, which sparked flames in a storage area near the airport. Authorities reported no injuries and said emergency teams brought the fire under control within hours.
In a statement posted on X, Dubai officials said flights were gradually resuming to select destinations as inspections and security checks continued. “A gradual resumption of operations has begun,” the statement read, adding that safety remained the top priority.
National carrier Emirates announced it would partially restart flights from 06:00 GMT after diverting several inbound planes to Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Ain due to airspace closures. Passengers stranded in Al Ain were informed they would either be flown or transported by road — a 130-kilometre journey — once operations stabilised.
Several international airlines, including flydubai, Air India, and Air India Express, also confirmed cancellations and diversions. According to airport officials, Monday’s attack marks the third time in three weeks that Dubai’s airport has been targeted since Iran began launching missile and drone strikes across Gulf states on February 28.
The assault underscores the growing risks to civilian infrastructure as the U.S.-Israel war with Iran enters its third week. Aviation analysts say the conflict has already slashed flight volumes across the Middle East to about half their usual level and disrupted global air corridors linking Asia, Europe, and Africa.
The Gulf region — a vital crossroads for passengers and cargo — has seen air freight rates rise by up to 70%, while tourism losses mount across countries heavily reliant on foreign visitors.
Iran claims its attacks are aimed at U.S. military positions in retaliation for the ongoing conflict but has also struck civilian facilities across the region. The United Arab Emirates, which normalized ties with Israel in 2020, has found itself a frequent target of Tehran’s assault.
As of Monday afternoon, Dubai airport officials said normal operations were expected to resume gradually, although flight schedules remain subject to change due to continued regional instability.
REUTERS