How Iran's strikes are putting Dubai's 'safe-haven' reputation under strain
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKMarch 3, 2026
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Dubai, long celebrated as the Middle East’s “safe haven” amid regional turmoil, is now facing an existential crisis following Iranian missile strikes. The attacks, launched in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes that targeted key Iranian sites including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei’s compound and nuclear facilities, have shaken the city’s reputation for stability. While Dubai’s skies were once seen as impenetrable, recent strikes, including those aimed at its iconic Burj Al Arab hotel and the world’s busiest international airport, have exposed vulnerabilities in this glittering hub of glamour and commerce.
For decades, Dubai positioned itself as a financial powerhouse, luring investors and expatriates with tax-free salaries, seamless business operations, and a sense of invulnerability. Its status as the “Switzerland of the Middle East” was cemented by its modern infrastructure, sunny weather, and zero income taxes, making it a magnet for hedge funds, white-collar workers, and influencers. However, the psychological impact of Iran’s offensive
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Originally published on Times of India on 3/3/2026