Iconic Dubai Hotel to Close for 18 Months After Being Hit by Iranian Drone Debris

The luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai will close temporarily for 18 months to undergo major renovations. This marks the first closure for the iconic hotel since its official opening in 1999. According to Reuters on Wednesday (22/4/2026), the closure was confirmed by a hotel staff member on the same day. The renovations are taking place amid a slowdown in the Middle Eastern tourism sector, affected by the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. The owner of the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah, had previously stated that the renovation work would proceed in phases over about 18 months. The project will be led by Parisian interior designer Tristan Auer. However, in its official statement, Jumeirah did not explicitly state that the Burj Al Arab would close completely during the renovation process. A hotel staff member said that management has offered alternative accommodation in nearby hotels for guests who have already made bookings during the work period. The Burj Al Arab, famous for its sail-shaped form, suffered minor damage in early March when debris from the interception of an Iranian drone attack struck the building’s facade. Nevertheless, the hotel emphasised that this major renovation is not related to that incident. “This long-planned work is not connected to the March incident,” said a hotel employee. Jumeirah, based in the United Arab Emirates, also did not link the renovation project to the regional war situation. Although known as one of the world’s most popular luxury tourist destinations, Dubai is also feeling the impact of regional conflicts. Flight disruptions affecting the UAE are said to be pressuring tourist flows. Several luxury hotel groups have also warned of pressures on company profits due to weakening visitor demand. The temporary closure of the Burj Al Arab has drawn attention, given that the hotel is one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks and Jumeirah’s flagship property.