KFM’s Tracey Lange describes midnight missile interceptions as Middle East conflict escalates
Alpha Ramushwana
1 March 2026 | 11:40Reports of explosions have emerged from several major cities across the Gulf states, including Dubai, Doha, and Manama.

A plume of smoke rises from the port of Jebel Ali following a reported Iranian strike in Dubai on March 1, 2026. Picture: FADEL SENNA / AFP.
South Africans currently in Dubai have shared harrowing accounts of audible air strikes and loud explosions across the United Arab Emirates as regional tensions reach a fever pitch.
The geopolitical situation in the Middle East has escalated significantly, involving military actions between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Reports of explosions have emerged from several major cities across the Gulf states, including Dubai, Doha, and Manama.
In response to the escalating violence, authorities in the United Arab Emirates have closed the country's airspace as missiles continue to transit across the region.
FIRSTHAND ACCOUNT FROM DUBAI
KFM radio presenter Tracey Lange, who is currently on the ground in Dubai, shared her experience of the night the tensions peaked.
"I would say there was at least one blast per hour, which I heard overnight," Lange said. "Things seemed to calm down, but from earlier this morning—just after 6 o'clock—it started again, and there was quite a bit."
Lange noted that the UAE government has been active in communicating with residents to provide clarity on the sounds of warfare.
"Government has confirmed that the sounds we are hearing are missiles and drones being intercepted, which is really great news," she added.
A COMMUNITY UNDER SHELTER
Despite the intensity of the overhead interceptions, Lange observed that the local population remains remarkably composed.
"There is a great feeling of calm. It looks like everyone is going about their day—but we have been asked to seek shelter and stay at home," she said.
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