Abu Dhabi's Nuclear Facility Hit By Drone Strike, Authorities Say Fire Under Control

Last Updated:May 17, 2026, 16:32 IST

Authorities confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems.

A fire broke out at Abu Dhabi’s Barakah Nuclear Power Plant on Sunday following a drone strike, authorities confirmed. Officials reported no injuries and said there was no impact on radiation levels.

“Authorities in Abu Dhabi responded to a fire incident that broke out in an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra Region, caused by a drone strike," the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a social media post.

“No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels."

Official Statement 

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems. All units continue to operate normally.

The incident comes amid the ongoing war and despite a ceasefire that came into effect last month.

The UAE, a key US ally in the Gulf and one of the Arab nations with formal ties to Israel, has faced repeated missile and drone attacks from Iran since the outbreak of war in Iran following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran in late February.

Rising Tensions

Just days ago, the UAE rejected Iranian claims attempting to justify attacks on its territory. Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar stated that the UAE reserves its full rights to confront threats, asserting it does not seek protection from any nation and is capable of defending its sovereignty.

Iran’s foreign minister accused the UAE of being an active participant in the conflict during the BRICS meeting in New Delhi, claims that Abu Dhabi dismissed as baseless and provocative.

According to UAE authorities, Tehran has carried out roughly 3,000 missile and drone attacks targeting the country and others in the region since the war broke.

(With inputs from agencies)

News world Abu Dhabi's Nuclear Facility Hit By Drone Strike, Authorities Say Fire Under Control

Read More