Kenyans Among Travellers Stranded After Drone Strike Near Dubai International Airport

Flights at Dubai International Airport were suspended on Monday, 16 March, after a drone strike ignited a fire near the facility, disrupting operations and leaving travellers stranded, including many Kenyan nationals.

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) said the suspension was a precaution to protect passengers and staff while emergency crews responded to the incident. The drone strike hit a fuel tank close to the airport, starting a fire that was quickly brought under control by Dubai Civil Defence teams. Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported and that the situation was contained.

Despite the swift response, the disruption has affected thousands of travellers. Many Kenyans living and working in the United Arab Emirates have been caught up in the suspension. Kenyan nationals in the country are employed across several sectors, including aviation, hospitality, healthcare, construction, and domestic service. Others operate small businesses in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The incident is the third disruption at Dubai International Airport in less than two weeks linked to drone activity. Earlier strikes on 7 and 11 March also forced temporary flight suspensions. The 11 March incident injured four people near the airport.

The attacks come amid rising tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Reports indicate that Iran has launched more than 1,800 missiles towards the United Arab Emirates since late February, with at least six deaths reported across the country.

The timing has created difficulties for Kenyan citizens seeking to return home. While some were repatriated earlier in the month, many remain in Dubai, and the latest suspension has disrupted planned evacuation flights. Authorities have advised travellers to contact their airlines for updates. Some services have been redirected to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) as a temporary alternative.