Dubai’s worst nightmare unfolds as Iran strikes Gulf neighbors

Dubai’s nightmare scenario unfolded Saturday: Defense systems repelling Iranian missiles and drones over its famous skyscrapers, random explosions and plumes of black smoke rising out of the city-state’s most celebrated neighborhood.

Local authorities said four people were injured in a fire at Palm Jumeirah, the man-made island that’s famous for its luxury hotels, resorts and attractions. A high-end hotel there was hit by parts of a missile that was either intercepted or got knocked off its trajectory.

Iran launched an unprecedented wave of airstrikes in the region targeting US bases and fracturing the emirate’s long-held image of a haven in a tough neighborhood. Dubai has prided itself with its unshakable security and safety. Many still leave their cars and homes unlocked.

But social media is full of videos of interceptors and objects flying in the sky, an unthinkable scene in the emirate. A restaurant in the Dubai International Financial Center, the Middle East’s main financial hub, unexpectedly asked customers to pay and leave so they could close early.

Panic-buying in some supermarkets prompted Emirati authorities to issue a statement and reassure residents that there is ample supply of food. Strategic reserves of essential commodities are “robust, comprehensive and diversified,” they said, asking people to refrain from stockpiling.

Missiles struck a service center at a US base and residential buildings in Bahrain, and ...