Iran targets Dubai with missile and drone attack

Iran launched a new wave of ballistic missiles and attack drones toward Dubai on Saturday, triggering explosions across the city and prompting emergency security measures by authorities in the United Arab Emirates, according to official statements and regional reporting.

The attacks targeted one of the Middle East’s largest urban and tourism centers, with air-defense systems activated during the strikes.

The new wave of attack forced UAE authorities to respond rapidly to protect civilian infrastructure and densely populated urban areas vulnerable to long-range strike systems.

Powerful explosions were reported across Dubai as ballistic missiles and strike drones, including jet-powered systems, approached the city over several consecutive hours. Authorities initiated emergency response procedures as warning systems were activated and security forces moved to secure key locations.

Among the emergency actions was the evacuation of people from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, as precautionary measures were implemented following nearby explosions. Local authorities did not immediately release casualty figures, while assessments of damage were ongoing at the time of reporting.

Earlier, the United Arab Emirates said its air defenses intercepted “a number” of ballistic missiles launched by Iran. In an official statement, UAE authorities described the attack as a “dangerous escalation and cowardly act,” signaling strong condemnation of the strike.

The UAE government added that it “reserves the right to respond to the Iranian missile strike,” according to official statements released through state channels. Officials did not specify what form any response might take, and no additional military actions were announced alongside the statement.