Drone Falls in UAE, Dubai Airport Facilities Affected

A waiting area at Dubai International Airport sustained minor damage following an incident on Sunday morning (1 March) amid claims that UAE authorities intercepted hundreds of drones.

In a statement to CNN, Dubai Airports reported that four staff members were injured and received immediate medical care. Most terminal areas had been previously evacuated as a precautionary measure when airport operations were halted on Saturday (28 February).

Video footage on social media verified by CNN showed the interior of the airport filled with smoke. In the footage, dozens of airline employees were seen evacuating the building in an orderly and calm manner. An eyewitness also reported seeing several ambulances moving quickly towards the airport.

The UAE Ministry of Defence stated it had successfully intercepted 195 drones launched into the country since the beginning of Iranian attacks on Saturday. However, fourteen drones were reported to have fallen in UAE territory, causing additional damage.

Earlier that day, Dubai Airports advised members of the public not to travel to the airport. In an official statement, passengers were instructed not to go to the airport and were advised to contact their airlines directly for the latest flight information.

Dubai International Airport is recognised as one of the world’s busiest airports and serves as a major aviation connectivity hub in the Middle East region.