American Tourist in Dubai Describes ‘Shock Waves’ and Hotel Fright Amid Iran’s Retaliatory Airstrikes
American tourists in Dubai are facing significant challenges as they attempt to return home following a series of Iranian airstrikes that were launched in retaliation for a joint U.S. and Israeli military operation against Iran over the weekend. The airstrikes targeted key locations in Dubai, including Dubai International Airport, the Burj Al Arab Hotel, and the Palm Jumeirah, which is a well-known tourist attraction.
Tourist Experiences Explosions in Dubai
Kristy Ellmer, a consultant from New Hampshire, was in Dubai for a business trip and vacation with her husband. She recounted experiencing “shock waves” and witnessing “red bursts in the air” during the attacks. Ellmer described the moment when she first heard the explosions while enjoying a day at the beach, noting that they had not been following the news at the time.
“You hear the explosion, you feel it,” Ellmer stated, adding that the experience felt like a shock wave that vibrated through her body.
Flights Canceled Amid Chaos
Originally scheduled to depart Dubai on Sunday night, Ellmer faced multiple flight cancellations over the following days. She has since booked additional flights for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, hoping to leave the city soon.
On Saturday night and into Sunday morning, the intensity of the explosions increased, prompting alerts from both local and U.S. government officials advising residents and visitors to shelter in place.
Safety Measures and Local Response
Despite the alarming circumstances, Ellmer expressed a sense of safety in Dubai, noting that she was impressed with how the UAE authorities managed the situation. She mentioned that her hotel, located on a marina, does not have a basement but offers interior rooms where guests can move mattresses if necessary.
“I’ve never been in a place that had bombs floating above,” she remarked, reflecting on the anxiety experienced during the first day of the attacks. However, she noted that after 24 hours, she and her husband felt calmer, and they observed that many locals continued their daily activities without panic.
Damage and Injuries Reported
The Iranian airstrikes have caused significant damage, including a fire at the Burj Al Arab Hotel, which was reportedly struck by an Iranian suicide drone. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that four individuals were injured in a hotel fire in the Palm Jumeirah area, while one person was killed and seven others injured at the airport in Abu Dhabi.
Authorities have assured the public that safety remains a top priority and have urged residents and visitors to rely on verified information from official sources.
Conclusion
As the situation evolves, Ellmer and other American tourists remain hopeful for a safe return home. The chaos at airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha has compounded their difficulties, but they continue to monitor the situation closely.
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Published on 2026-03-03 16:52:00 • By Editorial Desk
