Drone hits Dubai building, Etihad updates flights as conflict impacts travel and costs

A drone fell on a building near Dubai Creek Harbour, causing a minor fire that authorities quickly contained, with no injuries reported. The incident comes amid wider regional tensions affecting travel and markets. Etihad has updated flight schedules until March 15, while officials also warned shoppers to report unjustified grocery price increases as authorities step up monitoring. A look at the morning’s most important developments as the situation in the region unfolds.
Authorities have confirmed that the fire has been fully contained and all residents in the building are safe following an incident in which a drone fell on a building near Dubai Creek Harbour, the Dubai Media Office said.
Civil Defence teams acted swiftly to bring a minor fire under control after the drone struck the building.
Officials confirmed that no injuries have been reported.
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UAE airlines continue to operate on a reduced schedule as regional airspace gradually reopens. Emirates, Etihad Airways, Flydubai, and Air Arabia have all updated their flight operations, offering rebooking and refund options to affected passengers.
Authorities and airlines emphasise that travel is only advised for confirmed bookings, while safety remains the top priority amid ongoing operational adjustments.
Are you feeling a price pinch while shopping for groceries? Sudden increases in the cost of vegetables, staples or everyday essentials can leave shoppers wondering whether the jump is temporary or something that should be reported.
Consumer protection officials say the first step is staying alert while shopping and understanding that price differences between stores can exist. Yet unjustified price spikes, especially in essential goods, should be reported so authorities can act quickly.
As the US–Israel–Iran conflict continues to unfold, ripple effects are being felt across travel, oil markets, shipping routes and aviation worldwide — including here in the UAE. Governments, airlines and global energy organisations are introducing measures aimed at stabilising markets, maintaining safe transport routes and protecting infrastructure.
While regional tensions remain under close watch, authorities say systems and contingency plans are working to keep essential services running and minimise disruption.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially refuted a circular circulating online which claimed that Class XII English exams in the UAE and wider Middle East had been rescheduled. Officials confirmed the document is a fabrication and urged students and parents to rely only on official board communications.
UAE air defence systems successfully neutralised 13 missiles and 39 drones launched from Iran on Wednesday, 11 March. According to the Ministry of Defence, the intercepted targets included six ballistic missiles and seven cruise missiles.
Passengers flying between the UAE and India will face higher ticket prices starting today, 12 March, following a phased fuel surcharge hike by Air India and Air India Express. New bookings will now include an additional $10 (approximately Dh36.70) per ticket as the airline group adjusts to rising operational costs.