A fire broke out at a residential building located near the Dubai Creek, causing significant damage to the Al-Ras area, one of the oldest parts of Dubai. The blaze resulted in 16 casualties including both fatalities and injuries, according to authorities.
The incident occurred in a five-storey apartment building situated within Deira's older neighborhood. This residence is believed to have been shared by multiple occupants. Char marks were visible on the edifice which housed various businesses such as a grocery store and smoke shop on its ground floor.
An Associated Press journalist was attempting to interview an eyewitness when a Dubai police officer intervened, stopping their conversation before any personal information could be divulged. Furthermore, the officer requested that the reporter vacate the area immediately.
Preliminary investigations conducted by Dubai Civil Defence indicate that non-compliance with requisite building security and safety measures led to this tragic event. Colonel Saeed Al Madhani from Dubai Civil Defence stated:
As for now, no arrests have been made concerning these violations; however, an ongoing investigation aims at uncovering more details surrounding this incident.
Residents nearby expressed deep concern over their own safety following this tragedy. Asmaa Mansour, who resides two blocks away from where the fire took place said:
This unfortunate event highlights not only potential hazards lurking within some residences but also emphasizes how crucial compliance with established safety requirements can be for preventing future tragedies like this one from occurring again in communities across Dubai or elsewhere around world