Dubai, once counted among the world’s safest and most glamorous cities, now appears almost deserted. Rising military tensions between Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance have turned the city’s glitter into fear. Foreign residents and tourists have largely left, beaches, party pools, beach clubs, and restaurants lie empty. Only the local labor force remains, working amid deserted spaces.
Impact of Iran’s Attacks
Following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, Iran retaliated by targeting American military bases in the Gulf. With U.S. bases located in the UAE, Iran launched hundreds of drones and ballistic missiles. In the past two weeks, nearly 1,700 missiles and drones were fired on Dubai and other parts of the UAE, of which about 90% were intercepted by the UAE’s air defense system. However, falling debris caused significant damage. Iconic sites such as Burj Al Arab, Fairmont The Palm, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Airport, and several skyscrapers were affected. Two drones crashing at the airport injured four people and temporarily halted flights.
Why is the City Empty?
According to The Sun, thousands of wealthy foreign residents and tourists have left Dubai. Despite school spring breaks, Western children are largely absent. Beach clubs and restaurants that were previously packed with influencers and tourists now stand deserted. Many residents noted that life seems normal at times, but shelter alerts, flashes in the sky, and falling debris changed everything.
Professionals and affluent foreigners from Western countries are leaving via chartered flights, paying large sums. In the rush, many even left pets on the streets. Limited flights at airports have trapped thousands. The U.S. has started charter flights to evacuate its citizens.
Tourism and Labor Hit Hard
According to Gulf Times, the conflict has cost the Middle East tourism industry about $600 million daily. Areas like Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), restaurants, and Dubai Mall, once crowded, now lie deserted. The world’s largest Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai, has also stopped operating.
The most troubling aspect is that while the wealthy have left, millions of blue-collar workers from South Asia (India, Pakistan, Nepal, etc.) remain stranded. With work halted and flight fares tripled, returning home has become nearly impossible. The good news is that, thanks to efforts by the Indian government and airlines, over 52,000 Indian citizens were safely evacuated from the UAE and other Gulf countries between March 1 and 7.
Government Response and Restrictions on Free Speech
The UAE government has strengthened air defenses and reassured citizens. However, police have warned that sharing photos or videos of attacks may lead to legal action. So far, 21 people have been charged with spreading rumors, including a 60-year-old British tourist. The British Embassy has cautioned its citizens that UAE laws are strict.
Conclusion
Dubai’s situation is still not entirely out of danger. The city’s glitter has dimmed, but life continues for the labor class and some local residents. The effects on oil prices, flights, and tourism are being felt globally.