Dozens of residents have been left temporarily homeless after a fire ripped through a residential tower in DUbai Marina on Wednesday, it has been reported.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina opened its doors to people seeking overnight refuge following the fire at Sulafa Tower, Gulf News reported which added that 100-130 people were provided with food, beverages and basic necessities until they could make alternative living accommodation.
A number of affected residents have also been accommodated at the Tamani and Gloria hotels, it was reported.
A hotel spokesperson was quoted as saying: “Many people left today to make arrangements with family and friends. Over the weekend, our doors will continue to be open and we will provide temporarily shelter to those who still need to find an alternative accommodation.
“During their stay, they will continue to be provided with roll-away beds and other facilities.”
A Dubai Civil Defence spokesperson told Gulf News that residents will be able to return to the building only after firefighters inspect the building, and confirm its safety.
The spokesperson was unable to confirm how long the inspection will take.
Firefighters put out the fire that broke out at the 75-storey residential tower within two hours.
Flames had leapt out of windows toward the top of the Sulafa Tower in the upscale Marina district, and 10 to 15 storeys appeared to have been charred, Reuters witnesses said.
About 50 firefighters from five fire stations and rescuers from Dubai Police worked together to extinguish the fire, said Major General Rashid Thani Rashid Al Matroushi, Director-General of Dubai Civil Defence in comments published by news agency WAM.
He added that the blaze, which is believed to have started on the 60th floor of the residential skyscraper, spread out to the eight floors above because of the wind.
Burning debris floated toward the ground and firefighters approached the site with sirens blaring.
The 75-storey building is located across the road from The Marina Torch, where a massive fire broke out in February last year.
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