Dubai on Alert: Explosions and Travel Chaos Amidst Regional Tensions
Dubai found itself caught in a wave of unrest on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as explosions rocked the Palm Jumeirah area, including a fire at a luxury hotel. The incidents occurred following reported attacks by the US and Israel against Iran, prompting a swift response and widespread disruption.
Norwegian Tourists Describe Chaotic Scene
Jan Erik Sønderland and his partner, Karoline, Norwegian tourists vacationing in Dubai, recounted a harrowing experience to Dagbladet. They described hearing multiple explosions and witnessing a projectile fall from the sky and land in the water near the beach where they were staying. “First came a powerful boom. Ten minutes later, a large, oblong object fell from the sky and hit the water,” Sønderland stated.
The couple initially sought refuge on the hotel rooftop as sirens wailed and police vehicles flooded the streets. Further explosions followed, prompting increased concern among hotel guests, with some seeking information about potential bomb shelters.
Regional Escalation and Travel Disruptions
The events in Dubai unfolded amidst a broader escalation of tensions in the Middle East. Iran reportedly launched attacks against several neighboring countries in retaliation for the US and Israeli strikes. Dubai’s location, approximately 1,200 kilometers from Tehran, Iran, placed it within range of potential repercussions.
The situation has led to significant travel disruptions. All flights to and from Dubai have been suspended, impacting Norwegian’s operations and numerous other airlines. Sønderland and his partner are currently stranded, awaiting updates on flight availability and hoping to return to Norway.
Echoes of Past Conflicts: The Stuxnet Connection
The current unrest evokes memories of past covert operations in the region. Erik Jacob van Sabben, a Dutch engineer who died in 2009, was allegedly recruited by Dutch intelligence services to deploy the Stuxnet malware against Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz. This operation, a collaborative effort between the CIA and Mossad known as Operation Olympic Games, reportedly damaged a significant portion of Iran’s nuclear centrifuges.
Van Sabben’s death, in a motorcycle accident in Dubai shortly after the Stuxnet attack, remains a subject of speculation. The incident highlights the risks associated with such clandestine activities and the potential for escalation in the region.
Ongoing Situation and Calls for Information
As of 4:46 PM local time, emergency services were responding to the “incident” at the Palm Jumeirah hotel, with reports of four injuries. Dagbladet is appealing to anyone in the area with information to come forward.
FAQ
- What is happening in Dubai? Explosions have been reported in Dubai, including a fire at a luxury hotel, following attacks by the US and Israel against Iran.
- Are flights affected? Yes, all flights to and from Dubai have been suspended.
- Who is Erik Jacob van Sabben? A Dutch engineer allegedly involved in the Stuxnet attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities in 2009.
- Is it safe for tourists in Dubai? The situation is evolving and tourists are advised to follow the guidance of local authorities.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about travel advisories and register with your embassy if you are traveling in the region.
Did you know? Operation Olympic Games, the collaborative effort to deploy Stuxnet, reportedly cost $1 billion.
Stay tuned to Dagbladet for the latest updates on this developing story. Follow our live coverage here.
