Newsroom
Dubai, a city known for packed beaches, luxury shopping and nonstop energy, is suddenly unusually quiet.
New images and reports show parts of the famous tourist hub looking almost deserted as ongoing missile and drone attacks linked to regional tensions push visitors and some residents to leave.
Places that are normally buzzing this time of year, beach clubs, hotel pools and seaside promenades, now sit half empty. Rows of sunbeds remain unused, umbrellas stay folded, and restaurants that once struggled to find tables now wait for customers who never arrive.
For many workers in tourism, the change has been shocking.
“I’ve never seen it like this,” one café manager said, describing how even during school holidays, foreign families are largely gone. Many tourists have reportedly cut their trips short, choosing safety over sunshine.
The sudden slowdown comes after Iran launched waves of missiles and drones toward the United Arab Emirates over the past two weeks. Officials say about 1,700 projectiles have been fired, with most shot down by air defense systems before reaching their targets.
Even so, falling debris from intercepted drones has caused explosions and damage in parts of Dubai, including areas near the financial district. Authorities say incidents have led to limited damage and injuries, but the repeated alarms and loud blasts have unsettled residents.
In an effort to prevent panic, officials have urged people not to share photos or videos of strike sites online. The UAE has strict cybercrime laws, and authorities warn that posting certain images or commentary could lead to heavy fines or legal action.
Flights have also been disrupted after drone incidents affected areas near Dubai’s international airport earlier in the week, prompting some airlines to cancel or delay services.
The impact is now visible across the city’s tourism industry. While some beach clubs and restaurants remain open, staff say the usual crowds of European and American visitors are missing.
Dubai has built its reputation as a safe, glamorous escape in the region, a place of constant movement and luxury. But for now, the mood feels different.
*With information from The Sun and The Daily Mail
