Iran Targeted Dubai and many Middle East countries by drone strike. Dubai’s glittering skyline and Abu Dhabi’s busy streets were shaken on Saturday after a series of explosions ripped through the calm, pushing Gulf tensions to a dangerous new high.
In a major escalation, Iran launched ballistic missiles targeting the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, putting the entire region on high alert.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what happened, why it happened, and what it means going forward.
What Went Down?
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi reported hearing loud “booms” as air defence systems activated to intercept incoming missiles.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it had launched “Operation True Promise 4”, firing ballistic missiles at strategic locations across the Gulf.
The UAE’s advanced defence systems, including THAAD and Patriot missile batteries, intercepted most of the incoming threats. However, falling debris tragically killed one civilian of Asian nationality in a residential area of Abu Dhabi.
Operations at Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, were halted indefinitely. Major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and Lufthansa have suspended services to the region, as parts of the Gulf airspace remain closed.
Why Now?
The strike on Dubai was not a standalone move. It came as a direct retaliation.
Just hours earlier, the United States and Israel had launched a coordinated military campaign called “Operation Epic Fury.”
US-Israel Strikes
The operation reportedly targeted Iranian military infrastructure, command centres, and missile sites in Tehran and other major cities.
The “Host Base” Factor
Iran has repeatedly warned that countries hosting US military bases would be treated as “legitimate targets” in the event of conflict. The UAE is home to the Al Dhafra Air Base, a key US hub for reconnaissance and aerial refuelling missions.
Sending a Strong Signal
By targeting Dubai, widely seen as a global symbol of stability, business, and luxury, Iran appears to be signalling that no part of the region is beyond reach if its own territory comes under attack.
The Strategic Fallout
The UAE condemned the missile strike as a “flagrant violation of national sovereignty.”
For a country that has carefully built its reputation as a haven for global investors, tourists, and multinational businesses, this escalation poses serious risks.
“Such acts constitute a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens the safety of civilians,” the UAE Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
Is Your Travel Affected?
If you’re planning to travel to the Middle East, be prepared for disruptions. The situation remains fluid, with most airlines rerouting flights to avoid Gulf airspace.
The Indian Embassy and several other diplomatic missions have activated 24/7 helplines, advising their nationals to remain indoors and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities.
For now, the region waits as global attention turns to whether tensions cool down or spiral further.
