Dubai Residents Panic After Missile Attack Alerts on Phones

Residents in Dubai were gripped by panic on Friday after many people received emergency alerts on their mobile phones warning of a possible missile attack. The alerts came amid rising military tensions in the Middle East, with Iran launching attacks on United States bases across several Gulf countries over the past week.

According to the notifications sent to residents, people were advised to avoid going outdoors, stay alert and be prepared for emergency situations. The sudden warnings created anxiety among residents across the city.

One resident told media that several alerts were received within minutes. “We got four back-to-back alerts on the phone. We have stocked up on essential supplies and kept a bag ready with important documents, including passports, in case of any emergency,” the resident said.

The growing conflict in the region has already disrupted normal life. Air travel across the Middle East has been severely affected due to the escalating military situation. Several airlines suspended or rerouted flights as airspace restrictions were imposed in different countries.

Dubai, which is home to one of the busiest international airports in the world and a major global transit hub, has also felt the impact of the crisis. Flight disruptions have left many travellers stranded across Gulf countries, especially in the United Arab Emirates.

Many India passengers were among those affected after several flights were cancelled or delayed. However, since March 2, authorities have helped many travellers return to India. Several passengers praised Dubai and UAE officials for handling the situation efficiently despite the challenges.

Meanwhile, the UAE government has denied reports suggesting that it may join the United States and Israel in military strikes against Iran. A report had earlier claimed that the UAE was considering such a move following repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks.

Soon after the report surfaced, the UAE issued a clarification through the Emirates News Agency, stating that the country has not taken any decision to change its defensive position.

Tensions in the Middle East have been extremely high since February 28, when the United States and Israel carried out joint military strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. In response, Tehran launched multiple missile and drone attacks on neighbouring countries where US military bases are located.

Some of the reported targets included the US consulate in Dubai and the Al Dhafra Air Base in Abu Dhabi.

As the conflict continues, air travel, trade and commercial transportation across the region remain disrupted. Several countries have urged all sides to exercise restraint to prevent the situation from escalating into a full-scale regional war.