Dubai International Airport resumed operations after a seven-hour suspension caused by a drone strike near a fuel tank facility, which sparked a fire and forced authorities to halt flights.
Emergency teams quickly contained the blaze, and officials confirmed no injuries. Authorities suspended flights earlier as a precaution, leading to widespread travel disruption at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. With over 95 million passengers handled in 2025, even short interruptions created ripple effects across global routes.
Flights were diverted to nearby airports while safety checks were carried out. Roads near the airport were also closed temporarily to ensure security. Once the situation was under control, operations gradually restarted.
Emirates issued a travel advisory during the disruption, asking passengers not to travel to the airport. The airline assured customers that safety remained its top priority and apologised for the inconvenience. Air India and Air India Express also provided helplines and digital support options for affected passengers.
The drone strike forms part of broader regional tensions that have disrupted airspace and transport across the Gulf in recent weeks. Authorities emphasised that safety measures remain in place to protect passengers and crew.
Travellers are advised to check with their airlines for updated schedules as operations normalise. Even brief suspensions at Dubai International Airport can impact global travel, making real-time updates essential for passengers.
