Dubai is on high alert following reports of explosions in the sky and possible missile interceptions over the Palm Jumeirah area.

According to eyewitness accounts reported to protothema.gr, the first incidents were recorded about 20 minutes ago. Witnesses said that in the last 15–20 minutes, at least four to five loud bangs were heard, indicating the activation of air defense systems.

תיעוד: להבות במלון באי הדקלים בדובאי בעקבות פגיעה ישירה pic.twitter.com/iR3XtwNmJd

— החדשות – N12 (@N12News) February 28, 2026

One account describes a possible interception near the FIVE Palm Jumeirah, the artificial island complex known as “The Palm.”

“A short while ago, we saw an apparent interception, but I don’t know if it was successful, because it seems to be at Palm Jumeirah, specifically at Five Palms. It’s the famous islands they call ‘The Palm.’ At some point there, something apparently happened. This occurred about 5 to 8 minutes ago, and we hope everything is okay, because in the last 15 to 20 minutes at least 4 or 5 interceptions have been heard,” the witness said.

Videos from protothema.gr show fires in the sky, attributed to interceptions and explosions. So far, there is no official statement from the authorities of the United Arab Emirates regarding the incident.

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What is Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is often considered the eighth wonder of the world—a symbol of innovation and progress. The palm-shaped island is made from sand and rock, demonstrating the limits of human will.

Its stability is maintained by an 11-kilometer crescent-shaped breakwater, lined with luxury hotels. The breakwater has two openings that allow the clear blue waters to flow in with the tide.

Palm Jumeirah is home to 78,000 residents living in ultra-luxurious homes. It hosts some of Dubai’s most impressive hotel complexes, from the villas of Anantara to the underwater suites of Atlantis. There is a massive water park and a network of aquariums with over 65,000 marine species.

For those seeking a different perspective, visitors can explore the islands by walking or from the air. The newest way to see this enormous human-made construction is via gyro-copter, which resembles a helicopter. It has two seats and can reach up to 500 meters in height.