A new upscale skyscraper was targeted by drones believed to be of Iranian origin, resulting in a fire that engulfed the building in a shocking scene.
Startling footage captured the aftermath of an apparent retaliatory strike on a prominent area of Dubai, where a high-rise structure was struck, causing a significant breach in its structure. The incident occurred near Creek Harbour, approximately 10km away from the city’s international airport. Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the location to combat the flames that broke out during the late hours of the night.
Disturbing images and videos depicted a thick plume of smoke emanating from the residential complex in the early hours of Thursday, with a distinct section glowing intensely from the fire.
Authorities have confirmed that there were no casualties reported following the recent attack and assured that all residents were accounted for and deemed “safe.” This incident occurred shortly after Dubai International Airport was targeted in a separate drone attack the day before.
In a previous assault on one of the world’s busiest airports, involving Iranian drones, four individuals – comprising citizens from Ghana, India, and Bangladesh – sustained injuries. Local officials verified the presence of two drones near the airport premises.
A statement from Dubai authorities on X confirmed the incident: “Two drones have been located near Dubai International Airport (DXB), resulting in minor injuries to two Ghanaian nationals and one Bangladeshi national, along with moderate injuries to an Indian national. Flight operations continue to operate normally.”
The UAE Ministry of Defence released a statement declaring an ongoing response to missile and drone threats from Iran. The Ministry clarified that audible sounds were a result of defense systems intercepting incoming threats. Public compliance with issued safety directives was strongly advised.
A witness present inside the airport during the incident informed the BBC that individuals were instructed to move away from glass windows and seek refuge in secure areas.
In a separate development, a British tourist who reportedly captured footage of a missile over the Emirates while on vacation faced legal consequences. A 60-year-old individual from London was charged with violating strict UAE regulations prohibiting the filming or sharing of conflict-related content on social media, a violation supported by Detained in Dubai, a legal advocacy group.
The British tourist was apprehended on Monday and is among 21 individuals facing similar charges, carrying potential sentences of up to 2 years in prison.
Radha Stirling, director of Detained in Dubai based in London, highlighted the case: “Among those accused is a British national who promptly removed the video as requested, with no malicious intent, yet remains among those facing legal repercussions.”
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