The United Arab Emirates' (UAE) biggest port and oil storage facility, Fujairah, and Dubai's international airport have come under further drone attacks as Iran continues to target Gulf transport and oil infrastructure.
Flights were temporarily suspended on Monday after a fire broke out near the airport following a 'drone-related incident'.
A fire also raged after a drone attack on the strategically important port and industrial zone at Fujairah, one of the largest oil storage facilities in the region.
Additionally, a rocket attack on a car killed a Palestinian national on the outskirts of the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi, the city's Media Office reported. The attack occurred in the Al Bahia area.
UAE air defense systems intercepted six ballistic missiles and 21 drones on Monday, according to the Defence Ministry. Iran has launched over 1,900 missiles and drones at the UAE since the war between the US and Israel began.
Monday's drone strike marked the third incident since the start of the conflict near Dubai's airport, which is the world's busiest for international passengers. Some flights were delayed, while others were canceled altogether, impacting the UAE's image of safety and stability.
As the energy sector came under attack, a drone hit an oil storage tanker on Saturday, and another drone hit oil facilities on Monday, causing significant fires. Oil loading activities at the port were halted for damage assessments.
Fujairah, located on the UAE's eastern coast along the Gulf of Oman, plays a crucial role in global oil transport, allowing exports to bypass potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. It is strategically important for maintaining oil supply flows to Asia.
Despite the ongoing incidents, industry experts report resilience in the UAE business community, with various initiatives to restore normalcy and confidence among residents and visitors. In a recent interview, UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh expressed optimism about the country's recovery and resilience.
