Inside the Address Hotel lobby in Downtown Dubai after the fire had been extinguished. (Photo courtesy of Dubai Media Office)
Dubai police said on Thursday that the building was evacuated and 14 people were lightly injured. A medic at the scene said more than 60 people were treated for mild smoke inhalation and problems caused by crowding as they fled.
The New Year's fireworks display at the nearby Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, is one of Dubai's most celebrated annual rites and attracted thousands of spectators - most of whom were evacuated before the spectacle went on as scheduled.
Alabbar thanked Major General Khamis Mattar Al Mazeina, Dubai Police Chief, Major General Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Director General of Dubai Civil Defence and the heads, first officers and staff members of all the Dubai government entities who demonstrated their "superb commitment and dedication".
| Advertisement |
"We especially thank the Dubai Civil Defence officials for their exceptional bravery and hard work. The teams across Dubai government entities are the true heroes. Their noble work gives Dubai’s people and the business community the sense of security, comfort and confidence," he said in the statement.
Alabbar also praised staff at The Address Downtown Dubai and other Emaar hotels for their "commitment and for putting the interests of the guests first and foremost".
Search our database of more than 2,700 industry companies
