Dubai/Abu Dhabi, March 11, 2026:
Tensions across the Middle East intensified sharply on Wednesday as Iran reportedly launched strikes on commercial vessels across the Persian Gulf and targeted Dubai International Airport, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. The attacks are seen as part of a broader strategy aimed at disrupting the region’s energy and trade infrastructure, raising concerns in global fuel markets and prompting heightened security measures across Gulf nations.
According to regional reports, Iranian strikes targeted shipping routes used for transporting oil and commercial goods, fueling fears of supply disruptions in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. The situation has further escalated amid ongoing American and Israeli bombardment of Iranian targets, deepening geopolitical tensions in the region.
Dubai Financial District Sees Evacuations
Amid growing threats from Iran against economic assets linked to the United States and Israel, several multinational firms began evacuating their offices in Dubai’s financial hub on Wednesday.
Major consultancy firms including Deloitte and PwC reportedly closed offices or instructed employees to leave their workplaces as a precautionary measure. The move came after Iran warned it could target financial and economic institutions connected to the US and Israel across the Middle East.
In a separate development, the US financial services giant Citi also asked its employees in Dubai to evacuate offices in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and in Oud Metha due to heightened security concerns.
Fire Contained at Abu Dhabi’s Old Airport
Meanwhile, authorities in the United Arab Emirates reported that air defence systems intercepted an aerial threat near Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Media Office confirmed that a fire broke out at the city’s old airport following the interception but was quickly brought under control.
Officials said no injuries were reported and emergency teams successfully contained the situation.
Oman on High Alert After Drone Attack
Security concerns extended across the Gulf region as Oman announced it had been placed on high alert following a drone attack targeting fuel storage tanks at Salalah Port earlier on Wednesday. Local reports indicated that the attack caused alarm over the safety of critical energy infrastructure in the region.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and strengthening security around key ports and energy facilities.
US Issues Warning Over Iranian Port Areas
Amid the rising tensions, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) issued an urgent advisory warning civilians to avoid Iranian naval vessels and military equipment near port facilities.
The advisory specifically urged Iranian dockworkers, administrative staff, and commercial vessel crews to stay clear of areas where military assets may be present, citing potential security risks.
Flights Continue Despite Regional Tensions
Despite the escalating conflict, airlines continue to maintain limited operations across West Asia. Air India and Air India Express announced they will operate a combined total of 58 scheduled and special flights to and from destinations across the region on March 12.
Authorities and airlines have indicated they are closely monitoring the situation and may adjust schedules depending on security developments and airspace restrictions.
Global Concerns Rise
The latest developments have heightened concerns about the stability of the Gulf region, which plays a crucial role in global energy supplies. Analysts warn that continued attacks on shipping routes, ports, and airports could have significant implications for international trade, oil prices, and regional security.
Governments across the Middle East remain on alert as the conflict continues to evolve, while businesses and residents in key financial and transport hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi brace for potential disruptions.
