Iran retaliates with explosions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Manama
Explosions were reported in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Manama on March 1, 2026, as Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes following joint US-Israeli attacks. Damage occurred at Dubai International Airport and the Burj Al Arab hotel, with casualties reported in Abu Dhabi.
Key Highlights
- Iran retaliated with explosions across multiple Gulf cities.
- Dubai International Airport and Burj Al Arab hotel sustained damage.
- Casualties reported in Abu Dhabi following missile debris.
- The attacks followed joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran.
- Airspace closures and flight cancellations disrupted travel.
- Indian nationals were among those stranded due to the escalation.
On March 1, 2026, a series of explosions were reported across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Manama, as Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks in response to perceived joint US-Israeli strikes. The attacks, which began on February 28, 2026, extended into a second day, targeting locations in the Middle East where US troops are stationed. News agency AFP confirmed its correspondents heard multiple blasts in Dubai, with residents in Abu Dhabi reporting loud bangs. Sirens were heard in Manama, Bahrain, where an explosion was also reported, and a journalist in Doha, Qatar, heard a faint blast. Visuals circulating on social media purported to show a hotel struck by an Iranian strike, though these could not be independently verified at the time.
Key landmarks in Dubai, including Dubai International Airport, the Palm Jumeirah, and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, sustained damage. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that a concourse at Dubai International Airport (DXB) suffered minor damage, which was quickly contained. Debris from an intercepted drone also caused a minor fire on the outer facade of the Burj Al Arab hotel. Jebel Ali Port in Dubai also experienced a fire due to debris from an aerial interception. Four people were injured at Dubai International Airport, and two others were reportedly injured by drone debris.
In Abu Dhabi, the UAE's capital, an incident at Zayed International Airport resulted in one fatality involving an Asian national and seven injuries, according to Abu Dhabi Airports, a report that was later deleted. The UAE's Ministry of Defence stated that Iran had fired 137 missiles and 209 drones at its territory, with most being intercepted by defense systems. However, some debris caused casualties and damage. In Qatar, officials reported that Iran launched 65 missiles and 12 drones, with most intercepted, but eight people were injured, one critically. Bahrain reported a missile strike targeting the headquarters of the US Navy's 5th Fleet in Manama, deeming it a "treacherous attack" and a "blatant violation of the kingdom's sovereignty and security." Footage on social media appeared to show an Iranian drone hitting a nearby tower block.
The escalating conflict led to widespread disruption of air travel, with airlines canceling or rerouting flights across the Middle East. Hundreds of Indian nationals were among those stranded at Dubai and other hub airports, with many appealing to the Indian government for assistance. This included notable figures like Olympic medallist P.V. Sindhu and Bengali actor Subhashree Ganguly.
The attacks occurred in retaliation for joint US-Israeli strikes that reportedly killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior officials. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps vowed "the heaviest offensive in history" to avenge his death. In response to the escalating situation, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi issued an advisory for passengers stranded in the UAE, urging them to stay in touch with UAE authorities and the Indian government. The events marked a significant escalation in regional tensions, with fears of a wider conflict emerging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Iran launch retaliatory strikes?
Iran launched retaliatory strikes in response to perceived joint US-Israeli attacks that reportedly killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior officials.
What was the extent of the damage in Dubai?
Dubai International Airport sustained minor damage, and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel was hit by drone debris, causing a minor fire on its facade. Jebel Ali Port also experienced a fire due to debris.
Were there any casualties reported?
Yes, at least one person was killed and seven were injured in an incident at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. In Qatar, eight people were injured, one critically. Four people were injured at Dubai International Airport.
How did these events affect air travel?
Airspace closures and flight cancellations were implemented across the Middle East, leading to hundreds of Indian nationals and others being stranded at airports in Dubai and other hub cities.