A Scottish man living in Dubai has described hearing “loud bangs” as the UAE intercepted missiles launched by Iran, saying life remains largely normal despite rising regional tensions.
Gary Goldie, a 38-year-old training officer originally from Glasgow, said his children asked “what the bangs were” after air defence systems were activated over parts of Dubai. “People back home think we’re in an all-out warzone, but it’s very small, concentrated areas,” he said, adding that roads remain busy and malls and hotels are open.
Missile debris reportedly caused one death and left 11 people injured near airports in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Several areas, including Jebel Ali port, were affected.
Airspace closed, travel disrupted
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has advised British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to avoid all but essential travel and to shelter in place. Citizens have been urged to use the FCDO’s “Register your Presence” service for updates.
Airspace over the UAE and neighbouring Qatar remains closed, affecting major travel hubs that connect the UK with Asia, Africa and Australasia. Passengers travelling with Emirates and Qatar Airways have been advised to check rebooking options under air passenger rights rules.
Former footballer Graeme Souness was among those stranded at Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi, posting videos of explosions overhead before checking into a hotel.
Calls for de-escalation
Scottish First Minister John Swinney expressed concern over potential escalation and urged diplomatic efforts. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar also called for urgent de-escalation.
As tensions between the US, Israel and Iran intensify, residents across the Gulf remain cautious, balancing daily routines with uncertainty over what may unfold next.