Burj Al Arab Shuts Down for 18-Month Upgrade

0:00On April 16, Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab, that seven-star luxury spot, is shutting down for 18 months of major upgrades. They're revamping all 198 suites, plus public areas, and the spa, while keeping the signature vibes like the massive aquarium, marble interiors, and those fancy mosaic bathrooms intact. This Renault was locked in years ago, way before the tensions with Iran kicked off between U.S. and Israeli forces. The hotels calling you to carefully phase refresh after 25-year straight of hosting high rollers, and they're hooking guests up with stays, at other Jamira spots in town. Tourisms taking a hit across the Middle East, as folks bail amid the conflict, with expats and visitors fleeing Gulf States. Iranian drone strikes have led to an exodus, slamming the vibe in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Debris from intercepted drones back in March, deemed areas near the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jamira, and even Dubai Airport, though most got shot down, safely.

1:02Markets lost over 88 billion pounds in value, and more than 18,400 flights got scrubbed. Meanwhile, airlines like Emirates are cutting schedules to over 100 destinations, thanks to shaky ceasefires, pricey or jet fuel, and straight-of. Remove drama, putting even more squeeze on the whole region's travel scene.