All flights to and from Dubai International Airport had to be suspended after a drone attack sparked a huge fire. A drone hit a fuel tank in the area in the early hours of Monday morning, sending fire and smoke pouring into the sky. No injuries have been reported.

The airport was closed just before 5.30am local time (1.30am UK time) on March 16 as a “precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff”. Dubai Media Office said: “Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announces the temporary suspension of flights at Dubai International Airport as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.

“Travellers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. Further updates will be announced through official channels as soon as they become available.”

“Emirates will share updates when available. We would like to thank our customers for their understanding and patience. The safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority and will not be compromised.”

There was only one flight over Dubai at 7.30am, which had taken off from the much smaller Sharjah International Airport, according to Flightradar24.

Some flights were diverted to Al Maktoum airport, while others were forced into a holding pattern off the coast of Dubai.

Dubai Media Office said earlier this morning: “Dubai Civil Aviation Authority announces the gradual resumption of some flights to and from Dubai International Airport to selected destinations, following the temporary suspension implemented as a precautionary measure.

“Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights.”