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Mon, 16 Mar 2026

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 Iran hits key UAE oil port and Dubai airport

The port of Fujairah plays a crucial role in helping keep global supplies moving when the Strait of Hormuz is blocked.
The United Arab Emirates' (UAE) key transport and oil infrastructure facilities have been targeted by drone attacks, with Iran continuing its campaign against Gulf countries. A fire broke out at Dubai International Airport after a "drone-related incident" on Monday, forcing flight suspensions. Fujairah port, the UAE's largest oil storage facility, was also attacked, causing a fire to rage through the area. A rocket attack in Abu Dhabi killed a Palestinian national and six ballistic missiles and 21 drones were intercepted by UAE air defense systems. Iran has launched over 1,900 missiles and drones at the UAE since the conflict began. The latest drone strike is the third near Dubai's airport this month. The attacks have caused significant disruptions to oil loading activities at Fujairah port. Oil tanker operations have been halted due to damage assessments being carried out. Experts say Fujairah's location on the Gulf of Oman makes it a crucial backup for global oil supplies in case of disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has previously threatened to block. The attacks are part of a larger conflict that has also disrupted air travel across the Middle East and UAE. The UK is among countries that have vowed to protect key transport routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict appears to be escalating, with no clear resolution in sight.