Dubai Airshow Closes Early Because of Storm

The Dubai Airshow has shut down after stormy weather hit the city on Thursday morning, causing a roof collapse and flooding at the venue’s main exhibition hall.

Organizers say the show, which began on Sunday and was supposed to run through Thursday, will not reopen and warned the public, exhibitors and contractors to steer clear of the venue

“I have seen many emergency services there ushering people out and debris from the collapse,” one witness said.

“The entrance was ... flooded. The collapse was in the center of the hall, and we were only allowed to pick up our stuff and leave,” one exhibitor said.

Witnesses have reported the roof also collapsed in one of the chalets located on the static display section.

According to emergency services, the site has been closed off to the public and “the situation will be reassessed by noon.”