The decades-long rule of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ended abruptly on February 28, 2026, following a series of Israeli missile strikes targeting high-ranking Iranian officials. The strikes, conducted with support from the United States, resulted in the death of Khamenei, who had held power since 1989. The event marks a significant escalation in regional tensions and raises questions about the future of Iran’s political landscape.
The first night we received a warning, and the hotel guests, including us, were taken down to the underground garage.
A colleague, who arrived in Dubai with their family on February 26, 2026, described the immediate aftermath of the strikes. According to their account, hotel staff swiftly moved guests to safety in the parking garage, providing reassurance and full board despite the unfolding situation.
“Really, there were no problems, they handled the situation professionally,” the colleague stated.
What surprised them most was the seemingly calm reaction of the city itself. The following morning, venturing outside the hotel, they observed life continuing as usual, though with noticeably fewer people on the streets and a decline in tourist numbers.
“You can’t witness anything on them,” they said, describing the demeanor of residents. “The only thing noticeable is that Notice fewer people on the streets than when we arrived, and the number of tourists has noticeably decreased, and understandably, new ones are not arriving, but everyday life continues uninterrupted.”
Although largely unseen, the interception of incoming projectiles was evident. The colleague reported witnessing trails of smoke from air defense systems and occasional flashes of light in the sky. According to the Emirates’ Ministry of Defense, they have intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 541 Iranian drones since the attacks began. Dubai itself experienced impacts, with damage reported at the Fairmont Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab, the Jebel Ali port, and the international airport, resulting in three fatalities.
This strange duality now characterizes the city – the terraces are not empty, life has not completely stopped, but smoke clouds occasionally gather on the horizon where air defense systems are operating.
Other reports from the ground suggest some are preemptively relocating further inland, seeking refuge in desert resorts – away from the coast and potential targets.
No Compensation in a War Zone
The colleague, originally scheduled to return home on March 4, 2026, now faces an indefinite delay, as their flight has been canceled. They have registered for consular protection on February 28, 2026, but have only received an automated email confirming receipt of their request and stating they are now a “registered protection seeker.” No further information regarding next steps or repatriation has been provided.
No one has contacted us. No phone, no email, no instructions on what to do. We know nothing.
They explained.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó stated that over four thousand Hungarian citizens had registered for consular protection in the Emirates as of Sunday evening, and the ministry has increased staffing at its call center. However, consular protection does not legally guarantee assistance beyond providing information about potential repatriation options. There is no obligation for special flights, and compensation is unavailable during a state of war. Registration, primarily serves as a waiting list with an uncertain complete.
Meanwhile, an eyewitness in Abu Dhabi reported on Monday that their Wizz Air flight was canceled, and neither the airport nor authorities could provide any information. Despite reports that the Emirati state would cover the hotel costs of stranded travelers, many hotels are reportedly refusing to honor this, stating they have not received official notification.
The colleague is currently remaining at their hotel, where their reservation can be extended due to the downturn in tourism. Other Hungarian guests whose reservations had expired have relocated to alternative accommodations.
We are proceeding based on our own decisions, because no information is coming from elsewhere.
they summarized.
(Cover image: Two people walk along an empty beach in Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, on March 2, 2026. Photo: Fadel SENNA / AFP)
