Published on March 1, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
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World’s Tallest Skyscraper, 830m Emaar Property Burj Khalifa Evacuated After Reported Iranian Drone or Missile Activity Near Dubai Downtown: Sudden Jolt Shakes UAE Travel and Tourism Amid US–Israel Strikes and Iran in An All Out War — this dramatic chain of events in West Asia has gripped global attention and sent ripples through the Middle East’s most iconic skyline. The World’s Tallest Skyscraper, the 830m Emaar Property Burj Khalifa, was miraculously saved after reported Iranian drone or missile activity near Dubai Downtown triggered urgent precautionary measures.
Although no confirmed structural damage has been declared, the sudden jolt shakes UAE travel and tourism at a sensitive moment, especially amid US–Israel strikes and Iran in an all out war scenario that continues to escalate. Dubai Downtown, usually alive with visitors, paused as authorities responded swiftly. The evacuation of the World’s Tallest Skyscraper 830m Emaar Property Burj Khalifa after reported Iranian drone or missile activity near Dubai Downtown highlights how rapidly geopolitical tension can intersect with global tourism confidence.
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UAE travel and tourism now face heightened scrutiny as airlines, tour operators, and travellers monitor developments linked to US–Israel strikes and Iran in an all out war environment. Travel And Tour World urges readers to follow the full unfolding story as this sudden jolt continues to reshape regional travel dynamics.
Dubai’s skyline was thrust into global focus after black smoke was seen rising near the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, following reported Iranian retaliation linked to US and Israeli strikes.
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A Social Video footage circulating online showed dark plumes in the distance shortly after reports emerged that an Iranian drone had been spotted near the 828-metre structure. It remains unclear whether the Burj Khalifa was directly targeted or whether it sustained any damage. Authorities have not confirmed an impact on the tower itself.
The building was evacuated earlier in the day as explosions were reported in other parts of Dubai.
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United Arab Emirates (UAE) — Iranian missiles were reported over UAE territory, including explosions near Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with one fatality and fires on Palm Jumeirah.
Bahrain — Iranian missiles and drones were reported, including explosions and strikes on facilities, with at least one location struck within Bahrain.
Kuwait — Drones or missile fragments were reported striking areas such as the main airport in Kuwait.
Qatar — Iranian missiles caused panic in Doha as debris fell within the nation’s capital.
Jordan — Missiles and missile debris were reported over parts of Jordan, particularly near Irbid.
Israel — Iran’s retaliatory fire has been reported to extend toward Israeli territory and US bases near it, though details remain emerging.
Dubai became one of the major Gulf cities to feel the immediate effects of escalating regional tensions after Iran vowed a “decisive response” to coordinated US and Israeli strikes.
An explosion was reported in the Palm Jumeirah area earlier in the day. Visuals showed black smoke rising from a building on the man-made island. Residents reported hearing several loud bangs, and witnesses told news agency AFP that ambulances were seen rushing to the scene.
According to the Dubai Media Office, four individuals were injured and taken for treatment. Authorities confirmed that the fire was brought under control. Residents and tourists were urged to remain calm and to refrain from sharing unverified visuals on social media.
In a separate video shared by Nexta TV, a Shahed drone was reportedly seen striking an area between two buildings in a densely populated part of Dubai. The explosion was followed by visible flames. It has not been confirmed whether a similar drone was involved in the incident near the Burj Khalifa.
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The Burj Khalifa stands at 828 metres and is valued at approximately $1.5 billion. Developed by Emaar Properties, the skyscraper dominates Dubai’s skyline and overlooks both the city and the Arabian Gulf.
It houses residential apartments, corporate offices and the Armani Hotel, along with observation decks on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors. Millions of visitors travel annually to experience panoramic views from the tower, making it one of the UAE’s most significant tourism assets.
The structure itself is insured for roughly $1.5 billion for its developer. However, individual units, including apartments, hotel interiors and office spaces, are separately insured by their respective owners.
While reports of smoke and drone sightings triggered concern, there has been no official confirmation of structural damage to the building.
The following major aviation hubs in West Asia / Middle East Asia have not officially shut down entirely, but have experienced heightened security measures, rerouting, or temporary operational adjustments:
The regional escalation follows a barrage of preemptive attacks launched by the United States and Israel against Iran. The operation, reportedly named “Operation Epic Fury,” came after days of speculation regarding possible military action.
Explosions were reported near offices associated with Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The strikes were described by US President Donald Trump as necessary to defend American interests.
“Drop arms or face death,” President Trump reportedly warned, framing the action as defensive in nature.
Iran swiftly closed its airspace following the attacks and issued a statement through its Foreign Ministry declaring that its armed forces would respond decisively.
“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will respond decisively to the aggressors,” the statement said. “Just as we were ready for negotiations, we are now more prepared than ever to defend the Iranian nation.”
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| Airline | Action Taken | Affected Routes / Region |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Temporarily suspended operations | Flights to/from Dubai international hubs due to airspace closures. |
| flydubai | Halted operations | Dubai services until further notice. |
| Etihad Airways | Suspended departures | From Abu Dhabi temporarily. |
| Air India | Cancelled several long-haul flights | Routes from India to London, New York, Chicago, Toronto, Frankfurt, Paris; also Middle East destinations. |
| IndiGo | Suspended services | Middle East sectors including Abu Dhabi, Doha, Jeddah, Kuwait, Riyadh until March 2. |
| Air India Express | Extended suspension | Westbound flights until late night March 1. |
| Qatar Airways | Temporarily suspended flights | To/from Doha amid airspace closure. |
| Kuwait Airways | Temporarily suspended flights | Around region due to closures. |
| Turkish Airlines | Cancelled multiple regional flights | Routes to Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Oman; flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Jordan affected. |
| British Airways | Cancellations | To Tel Aviv and Bahrain, among others. |
| Lufthansa | Suspended flights | To/from Dubai, Tel Aviv, Beirut, Oman until early March. |
| Air France | Cancelled flights | To/from Tel Aviv, Beirut and Middle East locations. |
| KLM | Suspended service | Amsterdam–Tel Aviv and other routes. |
| Wizz Air | Suspended services | To/from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman. |
| Cathay Pacific | Suspended operations | Flights to/from Dubai, Riyadh; freighter flights affected. |
| Virgin Atlantic | Pre-planned reroutes & cancellations | London Heathrow–Dubai cancelled; avoiding Iraqi airspace. |
Iran’s closure of its airspace has significant implications for regional aviation routes. Dubai serves as a major global transit hub connecting Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. Any prolonged instability could disrupt flight corridors across the Middle East.
Airspace restrictions and security advisories may affect airlines operating through Gulf hubs. Aviation analysts note that even temporary disruptions can alter routing patterns, increase fuel costs and delay international schedules.
Dubai’s role as a key business and tourism centre heightens the sensitivity of such developments. The city relies heavily on global connectivity and visitor flows.
Dubai is one of the Middle East’s leading tourism destinations. Attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah and luxury resorts contribute significantly to the emirate’s economy.
Authorities have moved quickly to reassure residents and visitors. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that emergency services responded rapidly to the Palm Jumeirah incident. The fire was contained, and injuries were limited.
Officials have emphasised calm and responsible information sharing. In times of heightened tension, misinformation can spread quickly through social media, amplifying public anxiety.
Security measures across prominent landmarks are expected to remain heightened as authorities monitor the situation.
The reported sighting of a Shahed drone near Dubai raises questions about the reach and intent of Iran’s response. Shahed drones have been widely discussed in recent conflicts due to their operational range and explosive capability.
However, it remains unclear whether the drone reportedly seen near the Burj Khalifa was targeting a specific structure or whether it was intercepted.
Officials have not released technical details regarding drone interception, impact location or defensive systems.
The Gulf region remains on alert as diplomatic channels and military movements continue to unfold. The US and Israel have not indicated whether further action is planned, while Iran’s statement suggests readiness for additional retaliation.
Dubai’s experience underscores how quickly geopolitical conflict can affect global commercial centres. Even symbolic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa become focal points during periods of heightened tension.
At present, there is no confirmation of structural damage to the tower. Emergency responses in Palm Jumeirah have concluded, and injured individuals are receiving treatment.
The situation remains fluid.
Authorities across the region continue to monitor developments closely.
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Tags: airline route suspensions, global flight disruptions, Gulf airspace closure, Middle East aviation crisis, US Israel Iran Conflict
Sunday, March 1, 2026
