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LAST UPDATE | 16 Mar
TRAVELLERS FROM DUBLIN Airport have been warned of disruption to the Middle East today after a fresh attack on Dubai International Airport saw the transit hub temporarily shut down.
An Emirates flight from Dublin to Dubai carrying 172 passengers had to turn back in the early hours of this morning due to the closure of the airspace over the Gulf city.
Dubai International Airport suspended operations after a drone struck a fuel tank, starting a fire. Authorities said it was quickly contained and no injuries were reported.
Iran has taken aim at US assets but also civilian infrastructure, including landmarks, airports, ports and oil facilities around the Gulf, after US-Israeli attacks decimated its leadership.
And the operator of Dublin Airport operator DAA confirmed this morning that there may be “further disruption”, as it urged any travellers to contact their airline directly about the status of their flight.
Last night’s rerouted flight left Dublin at 9pm and was flying over Egypt at the time of the diversion, landing safely back at Dublin Airport at around 7am this morning, head of media operations for DAA Graeme McQueen told The Journal.
“Further disruption to flights between Dublin Airport and the Middle East today is possible. As always, passengers should contact their airline directly for the latest updates on the status of their flight,” McQueen said.
It meant an unpleasant surprise for some travellers, as seen below.
Was supposed to wake up on approach to Dubai. pic.twitter.com/oi1qSe8daR
— Karl Brophy (@KarlBrophy) March 16, 2026
On Wednesday, Dubai’s media office said two falling drones wounded four people near the airport.
The Emirati defence ministry has reported six deaths since the war began, including four civilians and two military personnel, who died in a helicopter crash blamed on a technical malfunction.
The Irish Embassy in the UAE has cautioned Irish citizens that any photos or posting to social media of drone or missile attacks is deemed illegal by local state authorities and could result in punishment. It also applies to Qatar and Kuwait.
“Irish citizens who violate these laws may be subject to fines, imprisonment and deportation,” the embassy said.
“We request that all Irish citizens continue to follow the advice of local authorities and follow official news sources.”
— Irish Embassy UAE (@IrelandEmbUAE) March 16, 2026
The warning comes only days after a British tourist was charged under the UAE’s cybercrime laws for sharing videos showing missile activity and explosions, according to advocacy group Detained in Dubai.
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