Dubai Airport Resumes Some Flights After Drone Incident; Saudi Intercepts Drones in Riyadh Dubai’s Civil Aviation Authority announced on March 16, 2026, that flights to and from Dubai International Airport have begun to resume gradually following a temporary suspension caused by a drone-related incident. The authority stated that the resumption is a precautionary measure, with passengers advised to check directly with airlines for flight updates. The incident occurred on Monday, when a drone attack near the airport’s facilities led to a fire at a fuel tank, prompting the suspension of flights. Emergency teams managed to extinguish the fire, and no injuries were reported. The drone incident followed a previous disruption at the airport earlier in the week. Emirates, the largest airline operating from Dubai’s busiest airport, confirmed that flights were suspended during the incident. The airport, a critical hub for global travel, faced further complications as authorities closed nearby tunnels and roads to ensure safety. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones over Riyadh and in the eastern regions on Monday. The Saudi Ministry of Defense stated that the country had intercepted over 60 drones since midnight, highlighting ongoing security concerns. The attacks targeted areas including Prince Sultan Airbase, which hosts U.S. military forces, and the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh. The Saudi government emphasized its commitment to defending its territory while maintaining regional stability. The UAE also faced heightened tensions as Iran accused the United States of using UAE ports to launch strikes on Kharg Island, a key oil export terminal. Tehran claimed the U.S. had utilized UAE infrastructure for attacks, though no evidence was provided to support the allegations.#emirates_airlines #dubai_airport #saudi_ministry_of_defense #prince_sultan_airbase #anwar_gargash
Explosions were reported in Dubai on Saturday, leading to the temporary suspension of flight operations at the city's airport, one of the world's busiest for international travel. Passengers waiting for departures were directed into train tunnels at the sprawling airfield as authorities activated air defenses. A witness told AFP that an explosion was heard over the airport, followed by a cloud of smoke in the air. Multiple residents also reported explosions across the city. The Dubai government confirmed that no incident occurred at the airport itself, stating that a minor event involving debris from an interception had been contained. No injuries were reported. Emirates Airlines suspended all flights to and from Dubai until further notice, offering rebooking or refund options for travelers booked between February 28 and March 31. Flight tracking data showed delays averaging 60 to 90 minutes, though some operations were later resumed. The incident occurred amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict entering its eighth day. Iranian attacks targeted areas in Dubai, including the upscale Palm Jumeirah district and the Burj Al Arab hotel, while drone debris caused a fire at the U.S. consulate. Tehran retaliated by launching missiles at Israel, as the U.S. warned of an impending bombing campaign. The conflict has seen significant casualties, with four airport staff injured and a concourse damaged at Dubai International Airport. Iranian strikes have also disrupted infrastructure in the region, including a reported attack on a U.S. THAAD radar system worth $300 million. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration approved a $151 million arms sale to Israel, signaling a hardline stance against Iran. Iran's U.N. ambassador vowed to take "all necessary measures" to defend the country.#iran #emirates_airlines #burj_al_arab #dubai_airport #palm_jumeirah
