Chaos in the Skies: Dubai halts air traffic after Middle East missile attacks

Dubai’s two major aviation hubs, Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Maktoum International Airport (DWC), have halted all flight activities indefinitely after Iranian missile attacks struck parts of the Gulf region on Saturday, heightening security fears across the Middle East.

Airport authorities announced the suspension as tensions rapidly intensified following military exchanges involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

In a statement, Dubai Airports said the decision was taken to safeguard travellers and aviation personnel amid the unfolding crisis.

“Dubai Airports confirms that all flight operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) are suspended until further notice. Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport at this time and to contact their respective airlines directly for the latest updates regarding their flights,” the authority stated.

“We appreciate the cooperation of our guests. Further updates will be provided as we continue to monitor the situation,” it added.

The shutdown followed a sharp escalation in regional hostilities after joint US and Israeli strikes reportedly targeted Iranian facilities earlier in the day. Iran subsequently launched ballistic missiles towards American military installations and allied locations across Gulf Arab states.

United Arab Emirates air defence systems intercepted several incoming missiles, officials said. Despite the interceptions, debris from the attacks reportedly caused casualties, with the UAE Ministry of Defence confirming that at least one civilian was killed in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar also reported successfully countering multiple projectiles, including one missile destroyed mid-air by an interceptor, producing a large plume of smoke visible from the ground.

Meanwhile, authorities in Kuwait said an Iranian strike damaged a runway at Ali Al Salem Air Base, where Italian air force personnel are stationed as part of regional surveillance operations.

Condemning the attack, the UAE Ministry of Defence described it as a “blatant” and “dangerous escalation,” noting that national defence systems effectively neutralised threats while affirming the country’s right to a proportionate response.