Major sandstorm hits UAE, blotting out Dubai sky
A major sandstorm has hit the United Arab Emirates, blotting out Dubai's famous skyline, the BBC reported.
High winds have whipped up desert sands, severely reducing visibility and causing residents to suffer breathing difficulties.
The storm has led to flight diversions from Dubai's International Airport, leaving many passengers stranded.
Abu Dhabi police say the storm has caused a serious traffic accident and forecasters predict it could last days.
Although sandstorms are not unusual in the region, the extreme weather has shocked some locals.
"Last time, I have seen [a storm], it was not up to this," said one Dubai resident. "I felt very bad, and I hear that there were some accidents already on Dubai's roads."