IRAN STRIKES

The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at 828 meters, was evacuated as a precautionary measure during Iran's retaliatory missile strikes targeting the UAE on February 28, 2026. Dubai authorities ordered the evacuation of the iconic skyscraper and surrounding Downtown Dubai area as Patriot missile batteries engaged incoming Iranian ballistic missiles overhead. Thousands of residents and hotel guests in the Burj Khalifa and the connected Armani Hotel were directed to ground-level shelters and the basement parking structure.

The evacuation of such a tall structure presents unique safety challenges. With over 900 residences, the Armani Hotel, observation decks, and corporate offices, the Burj Khalifa houses thousands of people at any given time. Emergency protocols required a controlled floor-by-floor evacuation, prioritizing upper floors where occupants are most vulnerable to blast effects and debris. Elevators were initially used before being shut down as a precaution, forcing upper-floor residents to descend dozens of flights of stairs.

Emaar Properties, the developer and manager of the Burj Khalifa, confirmed that all occupants were safely evacuated and accounted for. No direct damage to the tower has been reported, although residents reported hearing interceptions and explosions from nearby areas. The Burj Khalifa remains closed until further notice, with residents unable to return to their apartments. The Dubai Fountain shows have been cancelled indefinitely, and the entire Downtown Dubai district is under shelter-in-place advisory.