A London resident reported hearing “loud bangs” over Abu Dhabi as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) successfully intercepted several ballistic missiles fired by Iran on Saturday, following a US-Israeli military strike. The situation has prompted British nationals in Middle Eastern countries to take immediate shelter.
Jamie Smith, a Londoner who relocated to Dubai in 2023, described experiencing the frightening event firsthand. From his location in Abu Dhabi, he heard “eight loud bangs” and noticed white smoke in the sky where missiles had been destroyed. Military aircraft were also seen in the area, adding to the tension.
Smith, who manages stores at Dubai International Airport, highlighted the chaos that ensued as numerous flights were canceled, leaving many travelers stranded. “They are funnelling people back out of the airport through arrivals as there’s so many cancellations,” he explained. Despite the alarming circumstances, he felt secure, trusting that UAE authorities were maintaining control of the situation.
The UAE’s Ministry of Defence condemned the missile attacks as a “blatant” provocation and assured residents about the effectiveness of their air defense systems. Unfortunately, the incident resulted in one civilian death due to falling debris, which caused material damage in a residential area. The Ministry emphasized that the safety of all residents and visitors remains a priority and urged the public to rely on official communications while avoiding the spread of rumors.
In a related development, US-Israeli military strikes against Iran have escalated tensions in the region, igniting retaliatory actions aimed at American bases nearby. In the wake of these developments, it is critical for foreign nationals in the region to remain vigilant and heed safety advisories. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring the ongoing security and stability of the UAE.