UAE Airspace Open Again After Iran Missile, Drone Alerts

Airspace Shut Briefly for Safety

The General Civil Aviation Authority explained that the decision to close the airspace was made after a thorough assessment of safety and operational conditions, in collaboration with relevant authorities.
The temporary closure was described as an “exceptional precautionary measure” to ensure the safety of flights and aircrews and to protect the nation's territory. 

UAE Defenses Intercept Missiles and Drones

The UAE Ministry of Defense reported that the country’s air defense systems successfully intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on that day. Overall, since the onset of what they term “blatant Iranian aggression ,” the air defenses have engaged 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 UAVs.
In Dubai, residents reported hearing loud sounds, which were attributed to successful interceptions by the air defense systems. 

Airlines Cancel Flights amid Regional Tensions

This heightened state of alert has disrupted air travel across the region. Tensions related to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran have impacted major transport hubs in West Asia, leading several airlines to cancel or limit their services.
Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, mentioned that it had already been operating on a limited schedule prior to the airspace announcement, while Oman Air canceled flights to several destinations, including Dubai, Doha, and Bahrain, until March 31. Qatar Airways also announced the suspension of flights due to the closure of Qatari airspace, with some services expected to restart between March 18 and March 28.

Drone Hits Fuel Tank Near DXB

In a related incident, a significant fire broke out near Dubai International Airport on Monday after a drone struck a fuel tank, leading to road closures and a temporary suspension of flights. The airport took precautionary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and staff, and some flights were diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
Videos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the fire, which followed the drone strike in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport (DXB).