Iranian drone strike hits Dubai’s 23 Marina Tower, smoke billows from skyscraper | WATCH

Debris from intercepted Iranian drones caused a fire at Dubai's 23 Marina Tower amid regional missile and drone attacks. No injuries were reported. UAE authorities contained the situation, reflecting heightened tensions and security alerts across the Gulf.

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A drone strike linked to Iran’s ongoing retaliation against the United States and Israel hit the 23 Marina Tower in Dubai on Saturday, triggering a fire in one of the city’s most prominent residential skyscrapers. The incident occurred as Tehran launched a wave of missile and drone attacks across the Gulf region following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Verified videos circulating on social media showed thick smoke rising from the luxury tower in Dubai Marina, one of the city’s most upscale waterfront districts. The building, which stands around 90 floors tall, houses wealthy expatriates, international professionals and foreign investors.

BREAKING:

🇦🇪🇮🇷 Iranian drone impact at a tower in Dubai Marina, UAE pic.twitter.com/itESb4b04V — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) March 7, 2026

Fire triggered by debris after interception

Authorities later clarified that the damage to the building occurred after UAE air defence systems intercepted incoming threats.

The Dubai Media Office said falling debris from the interception caused a small incident on the building’s exterior.

“Authorities confirm that debris resulting from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the façade of a tower in Dubai Marina. The situation has been contained. No injuries were reported,” the Dubai Media Office said in a statement.

Emergency services quickly reached the scene and parts of the building were evacuated as a precaution while crews worked to contain the fire.

Officials have not released full details about the extent of the damage, but the situation was brought under control within hours.

Gulf region under missile and drone attacks

The strike on the Dubai tower came as the United Arab Emirates Defence Ministry warned residents about missile and drone launches originating from Iran.

Residents reported hearing loud explosions across parts of the UAE as air defence systems intercepted ballistic missiles, drones and loitering munitions.

Iran has launched multiple attacks across the region in recent days as tensions escalate following US Israeli military operations inside Iranian territory.

Explosions have also been reported in several countries including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Azerbaijan, highlighting the widening scope of the conflict.

The UAE has been one of the countries on alert as regional air defence systems respond to incoming threats.

Iran’s mixed messaging to Gulf neighbours

The attack also came shortly after Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a statement aimed at easing concerns among neighbouring countries.

He said Iran would avoid targeting regional states unless their territories were used as bases for attacks against Tehran.

However, US President Donald Trump dismissed the apology and described it as a sign of weakness.

Iranian military officials later warned that attacks would continue if they believed their adversaries were using regional bases to launch operations.

UAE leadership sends warning

Amid the escalating tensions, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a strong message during a visit to people injured in earlier Iranian strikes.

“The UAE is attractive, but don’t be misled by the UAE’s appearance. The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh – we are no easy prey,” he said.

His comments reflected the government’s effort to project resilience despite the security challenges posed by the expanding regional conflict.

Regional impact on travel and security

The escalating security situation briefly disrupted aviation operations in the UAE. Emirates airline temporarily suspended several flights to and from Dubai on Saturday while authorities assessed the security environment.

Officials reiterated that the damage in Dubai Marina was limited and caused by debris following the interception of incoming threats.

However, the strike highlighted the growing reach of the conflict as Iranian attacks spread across multiple countries in the region.

As missile and drone exchanges continue between Iran and its adversaries, Gulf states remain on high alert while working to protect critical infrastructure and civilian areas.