Claims of explosions, an attack and a fire at critical infrastructure in Dubai spread rapidly overnight, hours before authorities confirmed what had actually happened.
Fake or old videos showing flames and thick smoke were accompanied by misleading reports placing the incident at a port, a gas storage facility or linking it to the continuing regional conflict. Some reports claimed that several explosions had occurred within a short period, while others raised the possibility of a missile or drone attack.
Dubai Civil Defence subsequently confirmed that the fire resulted from an incident at a workshop in Dubai South.
The misleading claims prior to the official confirmation were not confined to anonymous social media accounts. They were also repeated by multiple media organisations, including established international outlets, despite the absence of confirmation from authorities.
Here is what the official account establishes, how the unsupported narrative developed and why this is not the first time authorities have had to counter misleading claims about Dubai during a period of regional tension.
Dubai Civil Defence said the fire broke out on Tuesday night in the Dubai South area.
According to the statement issued through the Dubai Media Office, an incident at a workshop caused several trucks and caravans to catch fire.
Dubai Civil Defence confirmed that the fire that broke out last night in the Dubai South area resulted from an incident...
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