Operations at Dubai International Airport in the United Arab Emirates were temporarily suspended on Saturday after a suspected drone strike near the airport triggered panic and forced authorities to activate emergency safety measures.
According to officials, air defence systems were activated after the incident occurred close to the terminals of the busy aviation hub, prompting airport authorities to halt flight operations.
Passengers waiting to depart from the airport were reportedly directed into underground train tunnels within the airport complex after the alert was raised.
A witness told Agence France-Presse that a loud explosion was heard over the airport area, followed by a plume of smoke rising into the sky.
Residents across the city also reported hearing multiple explosions, according to Associated Press.
In a statement, Emirates Airlines confirmed that flights to and from Dubai had been suspended temporarily.
The airline said passengers scheduled to travel between February 28 and March 31 would be allowed to rebook their flights or request refunds.
Authorities in the UAE said an investigation had been launched to determine the origin of the drone and whether additional threats remained.
While some reports circulating online alleged the strike was linked to Iran, officials have yet to confirm responsibility for the attack.
Security around major infrastructure across the UAE has since been placed on heightened alert as investigations continue.
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