Explosions heard across Dubai on Saturday triggered widespread speculation online, with viral videos claiming that Iran may have struck Fairmont The Palm hotel on Palm Jumeirah. The sounds followed Iran’s retaliatory attacks on US targets in the Middle East.
Social media clips showed smoke and visible fire near the Fairmont The Palm area. However, there is no official confirmation from UAE authorities or the hotel management that the property was directly hit by a missile.
What Happened in Dubai?
Residents reported hearing multiple explosions across the city shortly after Iran launched regional strikes. Videos circulating online showed smoke rising near the Palm Jumeirah area.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether:
- A missile directly struck the hotel, or
- Debris from an intercepted missile caused localized fire or smoke
UAE authorities have not confirmed any structural damage to Fairmont The Palm. The hotel has also not issued an official statement confirming a direct strike.
The events unfolded amid heightened tensions following US and Israeli military actions against Iran. US President Donald Trump confirmed that major combat operations were underway in the region after diplomatic efforts in Geneva reportedly failed.
Middle East Airspace Closures
In response to escalating tensions, the United Arab Emirates temporarily closed its airspace as a precautionary measure. The General Civil Aviation Authority stated that the move was intended to ensure passenger safety and national security.
Airspace closures were also reported in:
- Iran
- Iraq
- Israel
- Kuwait
- Qatar
- Bahrain
According to flight tracking services, commercial operations were halted or rerouted across several Gulf airspaces.
Major transit hubs including Dubai and Abu Dhabi experienced full or partial flight suspensions on February 28. Tel Aviv also faced disruptions as Western carriers paused operations.
Airlines Suspend and Reroute Flights
Several international airlines announced cancellations and schedule adjustments:
- Emirates temporarily grounded select Dubai departures.
- Etihad Airways reported cancellations and possible short-notice changes.
- Qatar Airways suspended flights to and from Doha.
- Lufthansa paused services to Dubai on February 28 and March 1.
- Flights to Tel Aviv, Beirut, and Oman were suspended until at least March 7.
- Virgin Atlantic suspended London Heathrow–Dubai services.
- Norwegian cancelled operations until March 4.
- Air India suspended flights to Middle East destinations, including Dubai.
Airlines are offering refunds and flexible rebooking options. Flights rerouted around Iranian airspace may experience delays of 30 to 90 minutes due to extended flight paths.
What This Means for Travelers
While viral claims have heightened public concern, there is currently no official confirmation that Fairmont The Palm was directly struck by an Iranian missile.
Travelers are advised to:
- Check airline notifications before departure
- Monitor official UAE government updates
- Confirm connecting flights if transiting through Dubai or other Gulf hubs
The situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to review developments.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
