Chaos Ensues as Flights Halted, Passengers Evacuated
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, Dubai International Airport (DXB) experienced a disruption following reports of a drone strike impacting its vicinity. The incident led to the temporary suspension of all flight operations at DXB and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Passengers were ordered off aircraft, and terminals were evacuated as emergency responses were activated.
The strike resulted in four staff members sustaining injuries, with necessary medical assistance reportedly provided. Dubai Airports confirmed that a concourse at DXB sustained minor damage, which was promptly contained. In response, airlines began suspending flights, causing widespread travel chaos. Some carriers planned a limited resumption of services from March 1, while others intended to wait until March 7. The broader region also saw restricted airspace over Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iran.
Wider Impact on UAE Infrastructure
The events in Dubai unfolded within a context of heightened regional volatility. Earlier that day, the United States and Israel reportedly launched strikes on targets within Iran, including facilities associated with Ali Khamenei. This preceded retaliatory actions across the Middle East attributed to Iran.
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A separate drone strike at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) resulted in one fatality and seven injuries, according to statements from Abu Dhabi Airports. Reports also indicated damage and casualties at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, where debris from an aerial interception allegedly fell onto a berth, sparking a fire. Iconic Dubai landmarks, including the Burj Al Arab hotel and a property on Palm Jumeirah, were also reported to have been hit, with the latter sustaining a fire.
Aviation Network Crippled, Resumption Efforts Underway
The disruption at Dubai's primary international hubs sent "shockwaves through the global aviation network," given the emirate's role as a major connector for Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Data from FlightAware indicated that key Middle Eastern airports remained significantly impacted, with numerous cancellations.
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Emirates, a major carrier based at DXB, initially announced a suspension of all flights to and from the emirate. Dubai Airports later confirmed a partial resumption of operations, with some flights beginning to operate from both DXB and DWC.
Background of Escalation
The attacks on the UAE come after Iran announced it would no longer target neighboring countries unless attacked first, and issued apologies for past incidents. However, the interim Iranian leadership council had reportedly approved a policy of not attacking neighbors unless Iran was attacked from their territory. The drone strike at Dubai International Airport occurred on a Saturday morning, following reports of several blasts heard across Dubai and the activation of air defenses.