Dubai's Burj Khalifa attacked by Iranian drones? Here’s what we know so far

Amid reports of an Iranian missile strike on Dubai’s popular Palm Jumeirah hotel, fresh claims have surfaced suggesting that another iconic landmark — the Burj Khalifa — may also have been targeted.

Videos circulating on X claim drone activity near the Burj Khalifa. However, there has been no official confirmation from UAE authorities, and it remains unclear whether the tower was directly targeted or sustained any damage.

Also read: Alleged Iranian missile hits popular Palm Jumeirah hotel

The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 828 metres, dominates Dubai’s skyline and stands as a global symbol of architectural ambition and economic growth. Opened in 2010, the 163-storey skyscraper houses luxury residences, corporate offices and the Armani Hotel. It also features observation decks offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding desert. Built at a reported cost of $1.5 billion, the tower was renamed in honour of the late UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world.



Meanwhile, the UAE Ministry of Defence (MoD) said the country was subjected to a “blatant attack” involving Iranian ballistic missiles. According to the ministry, UAE air defence systems intercepted several missiles with “high efficiency.”

Authorities also reported that debris from intercepted missiles fell in a residential area, causing material damage and resulting in the death of one civilian of Asian nationality.

The ministry said the security situation in the UAE remains stable and that all relevant entities are closely monitoring developments. It strongly condemned the attack, calling it a dangerous escalation and a violation of national sovereignty and international law.

The MoD reaffirmed the UAE’s right to respond and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens and residents. It also stressed that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains a top priority.

Officials urged the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumours or unverified reports.

Separately, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Saturday to discuss the Iranian attacks in the region, according to the UAE state news agency. In the call — the first publicly announced conversation between the two leaders since ties reportedly cooled late last year — the Saudi crown prince expressed full solidarity with the UAE.