Dubai Under Fire: A Business Trip Turns Into a Survival Story

Kristy Ellmer, a consultant from New Hampshire, was in Dubai for a mix of work and leisure when sudden explosions shook the city. Her husband, Matt Carwell, and she were on a beach break when they first felt the shudder of an attack. The air crackled with distant blasts, and white smoke rose above the skyline, marking the start of a day that would test their composure.

The Attacks

The blasts were part of Iranian airstrikes launched in retaliation for a recent U.S. and Israeli strike on Tehran. The attacks hit major targets, including:

• Dubai International Airport – struck by a suicide drone, causing casualties and severe disruption to air travel.
• Burj Al Arab – an iconic hotel that endured a blast.
• Palm Jumeirah area – another high‑profile target.

Flights for Kristy were canceled through Tuesday, forcing her to scramble for alternate departures later in the week.

Rapid Response

Despite the chaos, Dubai’s authorities responded quickly. By March 2, airspace had reopened after a more than two‑day shutdown. Officials urged residents and visitors to:

• Stay calm.
• Rely on verified updates.
• Avoid sharing unverified footage.

The city’s emergency services managed to contain fires and prevent further damage, maintaining a sense of order amid the turmoil.

A Surreal Yet Reassuring Experience

For Kristy and Matt, the experience was surreal yet oddly reassuring. They packed a “go‑bag” with water and snacks, preparing for sudden evacuation if needed. Yet they also noticed that many locals continued their daily routines—children playing indoors, people going about errands—showing a resilience that surprised the couple.

Kristy praised the UAE’s handling of the crisis, noting how quickly emergency measures were implemented and how safe she felt despite the uncertainty.

Reflection

As they awaited new flight options, Kristy reflected on her first exposure to a place where bombs floated overhead. The city’s swift response and the calm demeanor of its residents left a lasting impression, highlighting both the fragility and strength of modern urban life in times of conflict.