Dramatic footage shows lightning striking the world’s tallest building as intense thunderstorms bring heavy rain to Dubai
Dubai has been battered by severe weather, with the city’s skyline taking on an apocalyptic appearance as lightning struck the world’s tallest building.
Footage and images circulating online show lightning hitting the iconic Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai.
The dramatic scenes come as a powerful weather system sweeps across parts of the Middle East, bringing fierce thunderstorms, lightning and the threat of flooding.
Clips of the striking lightning strikes have been circulating from Thursday evening,March 26. The footage appears to show the lightning safely redirected through the 828-metre-tall building’s protection system.
According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), the unusual weather conditions were due to begin affecting western areas late on Thursday before gradually pushing inland and eastward, reports the Express.
Heavy rainfall and stormy conditions are anticipated to cause further disruption throughout Dubai, with widespread travel chaos and significant delays expected.
Dubai’s skyline has been far from settled amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, though the lightning remains an uncommon spectacle.
Since the outbreak of the war, Dubai has faced repeated attacks from Iranian missiles and drones, including strikes targeting the airport.
The most recent attack occurred as UAE air defences intercepted incoming missiles and drones launched by Iran overnight on Wednesday. The Gulf nation’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that the booms and explosions reported throughout the country were the result of Emirati air defence systems intercepting ballistic missiles, with fighter jets tackling drones and other airborne threats.
Dubai’s Media Office issued a safety warning urging residents to exercise caution amid the severe conditions.
The statement, posted on X, read: “Dubai will experience unstable weather conditions until the morning of Friday, 27 March 2026.
“Rain: Of varying intensity, at times accompanied by lightning and thunder.
“Wind speed: Occasionally strong, potentially raising dust and sand, which may reduce horizontal visibility.”
The post further advised people to stay away from the sea, drive carefully while reducing their speed, and steer clear of valleys, flood-prone areas and locations where rainwater is likely to collect.
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