Drone strike at Dubai Airport causes fuel tank fire as airlines suspend flights

A drone strike at Dubai International Airport (DXB) caused a fuel tank fire with airlines forced to suspend flights in response to the incident.

On March 16, 2026, shortly before 04:00 local time, the Government of Dubai issued a statement that authorities were “responding to a fire resulting from a drone-related incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport”.

Around half an hour later it was explained that the drone attack had affected one of the fuel tanks at the airport and emergency measures were being taken to “ensure everyone’s safety”.

After approximately an hour, it was confirmed that Civil Defense teams responding to the fire had successfully contained the fire after the fuel tank at the airport was “impacted”. No injuries were reported.

Footage shared by Al Jazeera, claimed to show a large fire burning near Dubai Airport after the drone ignited the fuel tank.

Footage shows a fire burning near Dubai International Airport after a drone ignited a fuel tank, according to authorities in the UAE. Flights have been suspended. Civil defence crews say the blaze is under control. pic.twitter.com/G8q4ECnjB3— Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) March 16, 2026 At around 05:30 local time, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announced a temporary suspension of operations at Dubai Airport, describing it as a “precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff”.

Passengers due to travel were advised to contact their airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights.

Emirates was among the airlines that issued statements advising its customers that flights to and from Dubai had been suspended and that passengers should not travel to the airport.

“The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority and will not be compromised,” said Emirates.

Some flights due to land at Dubai Airport were instead diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

Finally, at around 10:00, Dubai Airport announced that both inbound and outbound flights are “gradually resuming to selected destinations”.

While many of the world’s largest airlines have suspended flights to Dubai in the wake of the war in Iran, Emirates and flydubai have continued to operate a reduced service.

Other airlines due to depart Dubai on March 16, 2026, include IndiGo, Egyptair, SpiceJet and flyadeal.

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