Dubai Faces Disruption as Iran Launches Retaliatory Strikes Following Khamenei’s Death
Dubai, a global hub for luxury and tourism, experienced significant disruption on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as Iran launched retaliatory strikes against Israel and regional allies following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The attacks, confirmed by Iranian state media according to the BBC, have led to flight cancellations, explosions, and concerns for residents and visitors alike.
Retaliation for Khamenei’s Death
The strikes came after a joint US-Israeli attack on Iran, resulting in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the destruction of his Tehran compound as reported by the BBC and CNN. US President Donald Trump announced Khamenei’s death, framing the military operation as an attempt to overturn the Iranian government according to CNN.
Impact on Dubai: Flights Suspended and Explosions Reported
Iran responded by launching missiles and drones towards Israel and several Gulf Arab countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, which host US military bases. Dubai was directly affected, with reports of explosions and debris falling across the city. Axios reports that Iranian missiles and intercepts sent debris over Abu Dhabi and Dubai, leading to widespread disruption.
Dubai Airports confirmed the suspension of all flight operations at its main airports. Wizz Air has suspended flights until March 7th to Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Amman, and Saudi Arabia as noted by the BBC. Witnesses reported a fire breaking out at a luxury hotel on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s iconic artificial island, with black smoke rising from the building as shown in footage from N18G on YouTube. Four people were injured in the incident.
Palm Jumeirah and Resident Concerns
Palm Jumeirah, known for its luxury villas and five-star hotels like the Fairmont, is home to numerous celebrities and influencers, including Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Roger Federer. The area, previously known for its safety and discretion, has been directly impacted by the conflict. Residents reported hearing explosions throughout the city and the closure of shopping centers according to reports from N18G. Many residents expressed uncertainty about whether to remain in their homes or evacuate the city center.
International Impact and Political Fallout
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto is reportedly stranded in Dubai with his family due to flight cancellations as reported by N18G. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has convened crisis meetings in Rome to address the escalating situation. The UAE Ministry of Defense stated it intercepted Iranian ballistic missiles, reporting “no significant damage” but acknowledging that debris from intercepted rockets fell in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, resulting in at least one fatality.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains volatile as Iran has threatened the “most ferocious offensive in its history.” The attacks have triggered widespread disruption across the Middle East and raised concerns about regional stability. Further developments are expected in the coming days as the US and Israel continue their military operations and Iran vows further retaliation.