A huge fire has engulfed a high-rise hotel in central Dubai near the world's tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa.Burning debris could be seen falling from the 300m-tall (1,000-feet) building. The government says there are minor injuries and most of the fire is under control.
The blaze erupted ahead of a major New Year's Eve fireworks display, due to be held at the Burj Khalifa.There is no indication so far as to the cause of the blaze.
Up to two million people are expected in central Dubai for the fireworks. Crowds gathering to watch the display have been asked to leave the area around the Address Hotel.Officials insist that the New Year celebrations will continue as scheduled.
