Apocalyptic skies over Dubai as lightning hits Burj Khalifa

Dubai has been hit by severe weather, with the city's skyline appearing almost apocalyptic as lightning strikes the world's tallest building.

Images and videos circulating online show the lightning hitting Dubai's iconic skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa.

These dramatic scenes unfold as a potent weather system ushers in fierce thunderstorms, lightning and the threat of flooding to parts of the Middle East.

Footage of the striking lightning was shared from Thursday evening, March 26. The video seems to demonstrate the lightning being safely channelled through the 828-metre-tall building's protection system.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), this unusual weather was set to start affecting western regions late on Thursday before gradually moving inland and eastwards, reports the Express.

Heavy rainfall and stormy conditions are predicted to cause further disruption across Dubai, with reports of travel chaos and delays anticipated.

Dubai's skyline has been far from clear amid the Middle East conflict, however, the lightning is an uncommon sight.

Since the war began, Dubai has frequently been targeted by Iran's missiles and drones, including strikes on the airport.

The most recent attack occurred as UAE air defences intercepted incoming missiles and drones from Iran overnight on Wednesday.

The Gulf state's Ministry of Defence confirmed that bangs and blasts reported throughout the country were being caused by Emirati air defence systems intercepting ballistic missiles and fighter jets intercepting drones and other aerial vehicles.

Dubai's Media Office issued a safety alert for residents to stay vigilant during the storm.

The statement posted on X said: "Dubai will experience unstable weather conditions until the morning of Friday, 27 March 2026.