Flight disruptions follow a drone-linked fire at Dubai International Airport, while incidents are reported in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
UAE Responds to Missile and Drone Threats
The United Arab Emirates intercepted multiple missiles and drones during a tense early morning on March 16, as authorities managed several security incidents across the country.
Emergency teams responded to a drone-linked fire near Dubai International Airport, while additional incidents were reported in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Despite the disruptions, officials said authorities acted quickly to contain the situation and protect public safety.
Dubai International Airport temporarily suspended flights before gradually resuming limited operations later in the morning.
3:56 am Fire Breaks Out Near Dubai International Airport
Authorities responded to a fire triggered by a drone-related incident near Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Emergency services quickly secured the area and implemented safety measures. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported during the initial incident.
4:24 am Drone Hits Fuel Tank
Dubai Civil Defence later confirmed that a fuel tank near the airport had been struck by a drone.
Firefighters launched operations to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby facilities.
4:42 am. Firefighting Operations Continue
Civil defence teams continued battling the fire during the early morning hours.
Authorities confirmed that there were no casualties or injuries as firefighting crews worked to control the flames.
5:10 am. Fire Brought Under Control
Dubai Civil Defence announced that the fire had been successfully contained.
Officials confirmed again that no injuries had been reported, and the situation around the airport remained under control.
5:29 am. Flights Temporarily Suspended at DXB
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority ordered a precautionary suspension of all flights at Dubai International Airport to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff.
The temporary halt allowed emergency services to manage the situation around the airport safely.
5:34 am Airlines Issue Travel Alerts
Following the suspension, Emirates Airlines advised passengers not to travel to the airport until further updates were issued.
The airline also said it would provide passengers with information about rebooking options and revised schedules.
6:15 am. Situation Remains Stable
Dubai Civil Defence confirmed that the fire incident remained contained and had not spread to other areas.
Emergency teams continued monitoring the site while airport authorities prepared to resume operations.
7:07 am. Traffic Closures Near Airport
Dubai Police announced temporary road closures near the airport.
Intersections around Cargo Village and Marrakech Street were closed to traffic heading toward the airport, and motorists were advised to use alternative routes.
9:30 am. Emirates Announces Limited Flight Schedule
Emirates announced that it expected to operate a limited flight schedule after 10:00 am Dubai time.
Some flights were cancelled due to the earlier suspension, and affected passengers were informed that they would receive updates and assistance with rebooking.
10:08 am. Flights Gradually Resume
The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that selected flights had resumed at Dubai International Airport after the precautionary suspension.
Passengers were advised to check flight status with their airlines before heading to the airport.
10:08 am. Missile Strike Reported in Abu Dhabi
Authorities also reported a missile strike in the Al Bahyah area of Abu Dhabi, where a missile hit a civilian vehicle.
Officials confirmed one fatality involving a Palestinian national and urged residents to rely only on verified official information.
10:13 am. Emirates Restarts Some Operations
Emirates said it had resumed limited flight operations after 10:00 am, although some flights remained cancelled.
Passengers were advised to check flight status through emirates.com or the airline’s mobile application for updates and rebooking options.
11:38 am Fire Reported in Fujairah Oil Zone
Another incident occurred later in the morning when a fire broke out in the Fujairah Oil Industries Zone, reportedly linked to a drone attack.
Civil defence teams responded quickly to the blaze, and officials confirmed that no injuries were reported.
12:01 pm. Traffic Restrictions Lifted
Dubai Police later announced that most traffic closures around the airport had been lifted.
However, Airport Road remained closed for vehicles approaching from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Al Khawaneej, and the Marrakech Street intersection.
Situation Remains Under Control
Authorities emphasized that the incidents were handled quickly through coordinated responses by emergency services, aviation authorities, and security agencies.
Officials continued urging residents to follow official government updates and avoid spreading unverified information while the situation is monitored.
Note: The times mentioned above are based on official announcements shared on social media.
Source: Gulf News
