Deadly Explosion Rocks Construction Site Near Dubai Free Trade Zone

DEADLY EXPLOSION ROCKS CONSTRUCTION SITE NEAR DUBAI FREE TRADE ZONE

News Report – Dubai Pulse News | May 27, 2025

A devastating explosion erupted early Tuesday morning at a multi-purpose gas station under construction near the Dubai Free Trade Zone, resulting in a catastrophic fire and widespread destruction.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:17 AM on May 27, 2025. Emergency crews responded swiftly as the fire tore through the site, forcing the evacuation of dozens of workers. Despite the danger, several senior engineers and supervisors remained on site to mitigate damage and contain the situation.

Tragically, seven casualties were reported in the explosion, with two workers severely injured. As they were involved in pipeline and fueling operations, they sustained critical burns, while multiple additional injuries were reported among the on-site personnel.

Ethan Clifton, spokesperson and senior construction safety advisor for the contracting company overseeing the project, disclosed that one of the industrial engines had previously shown signs of mechanical failure. Although it had undergone repairs, the same engine reportedly ignited early Tuesday morning, sparking the fatal explosion and fire.

"The cause appears to stem from a sudden re-flare of the previously repaired engine, which caught everyone off guard," Rogers stated during a press briefing. "Despite safety protocols and maintenance efforts, the rapid escalation of the situation left little room for containment."

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident. Dubai Civil Defense units, along with federal safety regulators, are currently on-site assessing damage and evaluating any lingering hazards. Preliminary estimates suggest that the explosion caused damage to equipment and structures valued in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The contracting firm in charge of the gas station project is now working closely with its insurance provider to determine liability and the full cause of the accident. Experts have stressed that while technicians were employed to ensure safe construction practices, the engine's failure was sudden and could not have been predicted with current measures.

The tragic explosion has reignited concerns over safety standards at large-scale construction sites, especially those dealing with flammable materials and industrial machinery.

Photograph: Eduardo Murillo/AFP/Getty Images
Source: Dubai Pulse News, 2025