Dubai International Airport, world’s busiest hub for international traffic, suspended all operations on Saturday after air defence intercepted an object over the area amid regional tensions involving Iran.

Emirates, Middle East’s largest airline, announced immediate suspension of all flights to and from Dubai until further notice. Airline issued urgent directive to travellers through social media platform X, stating, “Please do not go to the airport”.

Dubai Media Office confirmed the shutdown in official statement. “For the safety of passengers, airport staff and airline crew, operations at Dubai International have been temporarily suspended. All procedures are being managed in line with established safety protocols”, authorities said.

Suspension marks significant disruption for global travel hub handling highest volume of international passenger traffic worldwide. Airport operations had only partially resumed on Monday following series of daily drone strikes targeting strategic sites across United Arab Emirates throughout the week.

Security breach on Saturday involved aerial interception directly over airport premises during ongoing hostilities. Escalation in threats to civil aviation infrastructure has prompted heightened security protocols across entire region.

Authorities have not provided specific timeline for resuming services as security assessments remain ongoing in response to volatile regional situation. Move affects thousands of passengers and connecting flights through major international hub.

Decision reflects growing security concerns in Gulf region as tensions escalate. Dubai International serves as critical connection point for travellers between Asia, Europe, Africa and Americas, making suspension particularly disruptive for global air travel networks.

Officials continue monitoring situation while maintaining safety as top priority for passengers, airline crew and airport personnel.

Source: BSS, AFP