“I heard explosions and drones” – Malaysian in Dubai Expresses Fear After Iran Strikes UAE

Muhammad Syafiq Izzuddin Shahrom, 32, a Malaysian working as a chef at a hotel in Oud Metha, Dubai, described the tense moments he experienced following Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting several areas in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including parts of Abu Dhabi.

Syafiq learned about the initial strike around 2 PM local time yesterday (28 February) while on duty, initially thinking the situation would be brief. However, he said the fear intensified as explosions were heard near iftar, including one around 12:50 AM close to his home in Ras Al Khor, just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport.

Speaking about the tense hours, he added, “I heard another explosion last night, and my heart just sank. I called a friend, and we both just said, “‘Stay calm, stay safe.’ It felt unreal, like something out of a movie.”

He said that he and other Malaysians in Dubai stayed in close contact through a messaging group and followed updates from the Malaysian Embassy and Consulate, registering their details for safety monitoring. His parents, especially his mother, have been extremely anxious about his well‑being.

“It’s only the 10th day of Ramadan, and this feels like a test. We can only pray. I heard drones, explosions, but there’s not much we can do. At times like this, where do we run to?”

Syafiq, who has been working in Dubai for more than three years, said this was the first terrifying experience he has faced there, as reported by Harian Metro.

The UAE government stated that the attacks targeted multiple locations, particularly in Abu Dhabi, resulting in one civilian fatality. The strikes came in response to joint US and Israeli operations against Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate with missiles and drones. Israel declared a nationwide emergency, while Iran vowed a strong response to any incursions in the region.