Iran: Fresh Missiles, Drones Hit UAE Airports

At least one person has been confirmed dead and several others injured after parts of major airports in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were struck during a wave of Iranian missile and drone attacks late Saturday.

Authorities disclosed that the incidents affected key aviation hubs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, triggering panic and forcing the temporary suspension of flight operations.

In a statement posted on 𝕏 on Sunday, Abu Dhabi Airports confirmed casualties following what it described as an “incident” linked to the interception of a drone targeting Zayed International Airport.

“Authorities in Abu Dhabi are responding to an incident resulting from the interception of a drone that targeted Zayed International Airport. The interception led to falling debris, which resulted in one fatality of an Asian national and seven injuries,” the statement read.

The agency added, “The public is urged to avoid circulating rumours and to rely only on official sources. Updates will be provided.”

Emergency responders were immediately deployed to the scene to treat the injured and secure the area.

Authorities also confirmed that four people sustained injuries after an incident at Dubai International Airport, widely known as DXB.

Flight operations were suspended as emergency services attended to the victims and aviation authorities assessed the situation.

Although officials did not immediately disclose the full extent of structural damage, Reuters reported that falling fragments from intercepted missiles and drones caused limited destruction near airport facilities and some residential areas.

The UAE’s air defence forces reportedly engaged dozens of missiles and drones launched by Iran during the late-night assault.

Official statements indicated that most of the incoming projectiles were successfully intercepted. However, debris from destroyed drones and missiles fell across parts of the country, leading to casualties and property damage.

The authorities subsequently closed the nation’s airspace temporarily and halted flights at major airports, leaving thousands of travellers stranded and compelling airlines to cancel or delay scheduled services.

The strikes form part of a broader escalation in the Middle East, with Iranian forces said to be retaliating after extensive strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian territory earlier in the conflict, according to international news agencies.

As tensions mount, aviation authorities and security agencies in the UAE remain on high alert, while passengers and residents await further updates on the restoration of normal flight operations and security conditions.