Dubai's Burj Khalifa hit? Video shows explosion, smoke near world's tallest structure as Iran retaliates

The footage shows smoke billowing in the distance shortly after reports of an Iranian drone being spotted near the iconic Dubai skyscraper. It remains unclear whether the Burj Khalifa itself was the intended target or whether it suffered any damage.

The building was evacuated earlier in the day as explosions were reported from other parts of the city.

Standing 828 metres tall in the heart of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is valued at an estimated $1.5 billion.

The landmark overlooks the Dubai cityscape and the Arabian Gulf and attracts millions of visitors annually to its observation decks on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors.

The skyscraper’s main structure is insured for approximately $1.5 billion by its developer, Emaar Properties, while individual apartments, hotel interiors and office spaces are insured separately by their owners.

Explosions across Dubai

Dubai has been among the major Gulf cities impacted by the escalating Middle East conflict after Iran vowed a “decisive response” to the US-Israel offensive.

Earlier in the day, an explosion was reported from the Palm Jumeirah area, where a building on the man-made island was seen on fire.

Visuals showed black smoke rising as residents reported multiple loud blasts. A witness told Agence France-Presse that ambulances were rushing to the scene.

The Dubai Media Office later confirmed that four people were injured and taken for treatment, adding that the fire had been brought under control. Authorities urged residents and tourists to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified visuals on social media.

In another video shared by Nexta TV, a Shahed drone — among the deadliest in Iran’s arsenal — was seen striking an area between two buildings in a densely populated part of the city, triggering a powerful explosion. It remains unconfirmed whether a similar drone was involved in the incident near the Burj Khalifa.

US-Israel strikes and Iran’s response

The United States and Israel launched a barrage of pre-emptive strikes on Iran earlier on Sunday under what was described as “Operation Epic Fury,” following days of speculation over military action aimed at toppling the regime of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

US President Donald Trump announced that American forces had targeted and killed the 86-year-old cleric, calling him “one of the most evil people in history” and urging Iranians to “take back their country.” The strikes were described by US and Israeli officials as part of a broader military campaign aimed at dismantling Iran’s ruling establishment.

Several explosions were reported near the offices of the 86-year-old leader. At the same time, US President Donald Trump warned Tehran to “drop arms or face death,” describing the strikes as necessary to defend American interests.

Iran closed its airspace shortly after the attacks and vowed swift retaliation.

“The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will respond decisively to the aggressors,” the Iranian foreign ministry said, adding that while Tehran had been prepared for negotiations, it was now “more prepared than ever to defend the Iranian nation.”

As the situation continues to evolve, fears are mounting that the conflict could escalate into a wider regional confrontation.