An Iranian Shahed-136 kamikaze drone struck very close to the Burj Khalifa in Dubai on Saturday amid widening hostilities across West Asia, according to witness accounts and video footage capturing smoke plumes near the city’s skyline. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates confirmed that air defence intercepts were successful and stated that no damage or injuries were reported.
The Burj Khalifa was evacuated as a precaution after explosions were heard in the area, officials said. UAE authorities have not released verified details on whether the incident was caused by missile debris, an intercepted drone, or another object. Confirmation on the precise cause remains pending.