Iranian broadcaster Press TV, citing Arabic-language media and regional sources, reported that at least seven explosions were heard within a span of 20 minutes.
Videos shared on social media showed thick smoke and flames rising from the industrial area near Jebel Ali Port. However, no independent confirmation has established the cause of the explosions, and no individual or group has officially claimed responsibility.
BREAKING: Yemen’s Houthis have struck the industrial area of Jebel Ali in Dubai, UAE, per initial reports. Widespread fires and plumes of smoke over the area and multiple explosions in Dubai in the past few minutes. pic.twitter.com/eMH9ASsNeT
— The Hormuz Letter (@HormuzLetter) August 5, 2026
UAE media confirmed that multiple explosions were heard in the area but have not issued an official account of what triggered them. Emirati officials reportedly acknowledged at least seven explosions without identifying the cause.
NASA thermal imagery indicated that the fire broke out at a warehouse near Jebel Ali Port that is used for fuel storage and transfer. Arab media also reported that two people were detained for filming the fire. There was no immediate information on casualties or the extent of the damage.
Key hub
Jebel Ali, located in south-western Dubai, is one of the UAE’s most important logistics, commercial and industrial centres.
It includes Jebel Ali Port and the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), established in 1985, which houses more than 11,000 companies from over 150 countries.
The area is connected to major highways, Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport, making it a key hub for regional and global trade.
Hormuz talks
The reported incident comes as the US, Iran and Oman continue discussions on a possible interim agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz following heightened regional tensions.
US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday (local time) that the strategic waterway could reopen “very soon” if an agreement is reached with Iran and Oman.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon and warned that the country would face severe consequences if negotiations failed.
According to Axios, citing two regional sources and a US official, the proposed interim agreement aims to restore the ceasefire between the US and Iran and restart negotiations, including discussions on Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Trump also said the US had previously prepared for a major military operation against Iran but chose diplomacy after Tehran requested talks.
(With input from agencies)