The Gulf region is facing a sharp escalation in the widening Middle East war as fresh drone attacks target key US allies. Saudi Arabia said its air defence systems intercepted around 50 drones within a few hours, one of the largest aerial barrages the kingdom has faced since the conflict involving Iran intensified. Saudi officials said the drones were neutralised before reaching potential targets, including sensitive locations such as oil infrastructure, military bases hosting US troops, and the US Embassy in Riyadh. At the same time, tensions spilled over into the United Arab Emirates as explosions and smoke were reported over central Dubai. Authorities confirmed that a projectile was intercepted, but falling debris struck a building in the Al Quoz area, causing a minor incident without injuries.