The nuclear power plant is located in the Al Dhafra Region.

11:42, Sun, May 17, 2026 Updated: 13:19, Sun, May 17, 2026

Barakah nuclear facility in UAE

Barakah nuclear facility in UAE (file picture) (Image: -)

Authorities in the capital of the UAE have issued a major statement after claiming a drone strike had prompted a fire near a nuclear power plant. A statement issued by the Abu Dhabi media office on X provided information on radiological safety levels and injuries following the incident.

The statement read: "Authorities in Abu Dhabi responded to a fire incident that broke out in an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra Region, caused by a drone strike. No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels."

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The message also read: "All precautionary measures have been taken, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

"The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) confirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems, and that all units are operating as normal.

"The public is reminded to obtain information from official sources only, and to avoid spreading rumours or unverified information."

No information was immediately provided on the origin of the drone strike.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi responded to a fire incident that broke out in an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra Region, caused by a drone strike. No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological…

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 17, 2026

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said to have been informed about the incident and unchanged radiation levels at Barakah.

It added in a statement on X: "Emergency diesel generators are currently providing power to the NPP’s unit 3. The IAEA is following the situation closely and is in constant contact with the UAE authorities, ready to provide assistance if needed."

The IAEA's Director General, Rafael Grossi, expressed his "grave concern" over the incident, saying "military activity that threatens nuclear safety is unacceptable."

At the height of the war between Iran, Israel and the US, Tehran launched a series of missile and drone attacks against regional neighbours.

There are yet no indications Iran was behind the latest drone strike.