Two major airports in the United Arab Emirates faced security incidents on Saturday, resulting in one fatality, multiple injuries, and significant operational disruption. Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world's busiest hubs, was evacuated following a suspected attack, while falling debris from a drone interception caused casualties at Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi.
Authorities at Zayed International Airport, located approximately 77 miles from DXB, confirmed that their air defence systems intercepted a drone targeting the facility. "The interception led to falling debris, which resulted in one fatality of an Asian national and seven injuries," officials stated in a social media post. Updates on the condition of the injured are pending.
Dubai Airport Incident and Regional Context
At Dubai International Airport, an incident described as being "quickly contained" caused minor damage to the terminal. Video footage posted online showed debris on the ground outside the airport and smoke inside as travellers rushed to exits. Dubai Airports confirmed that four staff members sustained injuries and received medical attention.
"Due to contingency plans already in place, most of the terminals were previously cleared of passengers," a statement from DXB said. The airport has advised that further operational updates will be provided as they become available. In response, Dubai's other major airport, Al Maktoum International (DWC), suspended all operations until further notice and instructed passengers not to travel to the airport.
Wider Regional Tensions
The attacks occurred amid heightened regional tensions. Iran has launched a series of missile strikes across the Middle East following joint US-Israel military action on Saturday, which former US President Donald Trump claimed resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Earlier on Saturday, Kuwait's Public Authority for Civil Aviation reported that a drone hit Kuwait International Airport, causing injuries and damage. It remains unclear if that incident is connected to the Iranian drone campaign.
Passenger Accounts and Ongoing Impact
The disruption left thousands of travellers stranded. Emirates passenger Jaiveer Cheema, whose flight was cancelled, told Business Insider he received a mobile alert around 12:30 a.m. local time warning of a potential missile threat. "Everyone is taking shelter in the bottom floor of the hotel," Cheema said, describing the scene at his accommodation following the incident at DXB.
Authorities at both affected UAE airports are assessing the full extent of the damage and coordinating with emergency services. The incidents mark a significant breach of security for the UAE, a major global travel and business hub known for its stability.