Huge fire erupts at Dubai hotel, site of New Year celebrations

The Dubai government media office tweeted that a “fire has been reported in the Address Downtown hotel. Authorities are currently on-site to address the incident swiftly and safely”.

Witnesses near the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, said huge flames could be seen billowing from the hotel.

Images aired on the Dubai-based Al-Arabiya news channel showed a high-rise building with fire engulfing dozens of storeys.

Dubai authorities said earlier Thursday that they had deployed thousands of security personnel to ensure visitors and residents could enjoy the New Year’s festivities safely.

Address hotel Dubai on fire. pic.twitter.com/a4v3yRNhqp

— Rami Ranger (@RamiRanger) December 31, 2015

Fire broke out and People are rushing away! Building is right in front of the burj khalifa in dubai! pic.twitter.com/vo3pCzXvWV

— jinane Edwards (@jinaneEdwards) December 31, 2015