The iconic Fairmont The Palm Hotel on Dubai's Palm Jumeirah was engulfed in flames on February 28, 2026, after debris from an Iranian airstrike struck the luxury beachside resort. Holidaymakers across the Emirati city reported hearing several loud bangs before smoke and flames billowed from the five-star property, which opened in 2012 and boasts nearly 400 rooms across 14 storeys.
Emergency Response and Injuries Reported
Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, where at least four people have been reported injured. Footage of the incident showed the £245 million ($330 million) hotel, located on the palm-shaped artificial archipelago, heavily damaged by fire. The attack has sent shockwaves through Dubai, a popular tourist destination known for its opulent resorts and vibrant city life.
Widespread Disruption Across Dubai
Elsewhere in Dubai, visitors at swimming pools filmed air defence systems shooting down suspected Iranian missiles. A clip shared on social media captured the moment an airstrike was intercepted over the Jumeirah Golf Estates, south of the city centre, near Dubai Sports City and the Trump International Golf Club. Several other holidaymakers reported hearing loud bangs throughout the city, highlighting the widespread nature of the attack.
Leah Mai, a British influencer staying in Dubai, wrote on X: 'Every so often you get reminded that ur really in the middle of a war zone.' Her comment reflects the sudden and alarming shift in the atmosphere for tourists and residents alike.
Airspace Closure and Travel Warnings
In response to the regional escalation, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority announced the temporary closure of the country's airspace until further notice. This has suspended most flights from airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the hubs for Gulf giant carriers Etihad and Emirates, causing significant travel disruptions.
The UK's foreign office has urged citizens in the Middle East, including Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, to 'immediately' shelter and advised against all travel to Israel and Palestine. This warning underscores the heightened tensions in the region following recent military actions.
Broader Regional Context
The attack on Dubai comes amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East. On Saturday, US forces began 'major combat operations' aimed at destroying Iran's uranium enrichment facilities, with former President Donald Trump hinting at more ambitious goals, including toppling Ali Khamenei's regime. Iran has responded with airstrikes targeting sites in Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Iraq, and Israel, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.
Metro has contacted Fairmont and Accor hotels for comment on the incident, but no official statement has been released at this time. The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring developments closely.
