Numerous videos circulating on social media Saturday showed heavy black smoke pouring from Fairmont The Palm, as Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone strikes across the Middle East in response to a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation targeting Tehran.
Video footage shows the moment a projectile struck outside the Fairmont hotel in Dubai’s prestigious Palm Jumeirah area, the Independent reports. Additional images showed a large fireball and plumes of thick, dark smoke rising from the waterfront complex. An Iranian Shahed drone caused the large explosion and fire, reported CNN.
The government of Dubai’s Media Office confirmed that an “incident occurred in a building in the Palm Jumeirah area” and said four people were injured.
The UAE’s Ministry of Defense said its air defense systems intercepted several incoming missiles and drones with what it described as “high efficiency,” calling the strikes “a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law.” The ministry added that the UAE “reserves its full right to take all necessary measures to protect its territories and citizens.”
Iran targeted the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar — all countries that host U.S. military forces. The strikes unfolded hours after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed a “major combat operation” against Iran, stating the country “could never have a nuclear weapon.” Israel’s Defense Minister described the coordinated action as a “preventative attack” aimed at removing threats.
By evening, thick plumes of smoke were seen across the Dubai skyline, leaving residents and tourists in a panicked state. Dubai’s airports suspended all flight operations at both Dubai International and Dubai World Central until further notice.
Accor, the Paris-based hospitality group and parent company of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, has not yet responded to a request for comment.
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