Emirates Flight to Dubai Delayed at Heathrow Amid Iranian Missile Attacks on UAE

An Emirates flight scheduled to depart from London's Heathrow Airport to Dubai was delayed on the runway on May 4, 2026, after reports emerged of Iranian missile attacks on the United Arab Emirates. Euronews journalist Toby Gregory, who was aboard the aircraft, reported that the plane had pushed back on time and was about to take off when the captain announced a return to the stand.

The decision followed instructions from the airline's operations center as a precautionary measure amid the attacks. The captain informed passengers that the hold was due to the situation in Dubai. Ground crew then loaded additional fuel onto the aircraft to provide flexibility in case of rerouting or holding patterns upon approach.

Gregory stated that the cabin atmosphere remained calm, with passengers expressing no concerns about safety based on the airline's record.

The UAE defense ministry reported that four cruise missiles launched from Iran were detected targeting various areas across the country. Three missiles were engaged over territorial waters, while one fell into the sea, according to a statement on social media.

The UAE foreign ministry described the attacks as the first since a ceasefire with Iran and stated that they posed a threat to the country's security and stability. The foreign ministry added that the UAE reserves the right to respond. In response to the incident, the UAE education ministry announced a shift to remote learning for all schools from May 5 to May 8, 2026.

Iran stated through state television that it had no plans to target the UAE, according to a senior military official.

Ursula von der Leyen stated that the attacks were a violation of sovereignty and international law. In a post on X, she said the incidents were unacceptable and noted that security in the Gulf region affects Europe. Von der Leyen added that the EU will work with partners on de-escalation and diplomatic resolution to end such actions.