Five explosions heard in Dubai amid unclear circumstances

13:22

Five explosions were reported in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, according to CNN staff present in the area. Four of the blasts were described as particularly loud, though the cause remains unclear.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the explosions were the result of airstrikes, interceptions by the UAE’s air defense systems, or another incident. Dubai, a major center for commerce and tourism in the region, does not host any known United States military installations.

Video footage captured by a CNN staff member shows smoke rising near Jabal Ali port, a major international shipping and logistics hub. Another video obtained by CNN appears to show one of the explosions originating from an intercept.

Officials have not yet released statements on casualties or property damage. The incident has heightened security concerns in the UAE, which remains a key economic and travel hub in the Gulf.