'There's fighter jets everywhere and falling debris': West Midlands man living near Dubai describes scene amid Iran strikes
A British expat has described seeing 'fighter jets everywhere' near Dubai as regional unrest in the Middle East continues.
Loud explosions have been heard across the Gulf cities of Dubai, Doha and Manama today (Monday 2 March) as Tehran pressed into a third day of strikes in response to US-Israeli strikes. This morning debris from a drone fell in the Al Hamra Village area in the city of Ras Al Khaimah, around an hour's drive from Dubai International Airport.
Al Hamra is one of Ras Al Khaimah's most popular leisure destinations
Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office posted on X: "The relevant authorities in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah dealt with an incident in the Al Hamra Village area this morning, resulting from the fall of shrapnel following the successful interception by air defenses of a drone aircraft, with no injuries reported. The public is urged to obtain information from its official sources in the country and to avoid circulating rumors or unverified information."
Pictures shared on social media show clouds of smoke and damage on the streets. One user on X said the explosion "woke me up at 8am this morning in Al Hamra community".
A man from Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, who is now living in Ras Al Khaimah, told the Express and Star: "There's fighter jets everywhere above us and constantly intercepting.
"There is falling debris and all interceptions. They hit Al Hamra".
Iran has targeted US assets in the UAE, including civilian properties, and airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This is the first such incident in Ras Al Khaimah.
The emirate’s authorities are closely monitoring the situation and stress that all safety measures remain in place to protect the public. Dubai Airports, the body which manages the city’s two international airports, advised any passengers due to travel not to go to the airport at this time. Flights have been suspended at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.
The Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel to United Arab Emirates, which includes cities Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. In a new warning to Brits it says: "Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in UAE should immediately shelter in place.
"Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities. Let the UK government know you’re in the United Arab Emirates register your presence if you’re in the United Arab Emirates for further updates.
"Regional escalation poses significant security risks and has led to travel disruption." Listed below is further advice for Brits in the UAE.
Read if you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis”.
Follow advice from the local authorities and sign up to receive information and alerts.
Read the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority’s guidance across numerous emergencies.
Sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts.
Monitor local and international media for the latest information.
Stay away from areas around security or military facilitieskeep your departure plans under review, and ensure your travel documents are up to date.
If you are advised to take shelter, stay indoors or find the nearest safe building or designated shelter. An interior stairwell or a room with as few external walls or windows as possible may provide additional protection
