World’s tallest building hit by lightning as Dubai suffers flooding after heavy storms

The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building in Dubai, was struck by multiple dramatic lightning bolts during intense thunderstorms on March 27, 2026. 

Dramatic pictures were posted online by the Dubai Media Office and others showing lightning striking the 829m/2,722ft Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. 

Officials have issued warnings following intense downpour. 
 

Authorities in the UAE activated emergency measures and issued safety alerts across the country, Gulf News said. 

“Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds” swept across large parts of the UAE from Thursday into early Friday. 

An unstable weather system caused “lightning, booming thunder and intense downpours in several cities”, as well as “dust-raising winds and reduced visibility”, the outlet said. 

Dubai’s police force said on X its efforts had intensified, with specialised teams helping make roads safe so as to “keep traffic moving smoothly”.