‘Prominent son’: Egypt mourns engineer killed in Abu Dhabi gas facility fire

Hossam Sadiq Khalifa died during his duties at Habshan plant after debris from air defence interception sparked two fires; four others injured.

ABU DHABI / CAIRO – Authorities have confirmed that an Egyptian national was killed in a fire at Abu Dhabi’s Habshan gas facilities, caused by debris from a successful air defence interception amid ongoing regional hostilities.

The Abu Dhabi Media Office reported that two separate fires erupted at the site, causing significant damage to the facilities. Emergency response teams quickly brought the situation under control, but the blasts claimed the life of Engineer Hossam Sadiq Khalifa, Assistant General Manager of Quality Petrojet Company – UAE Branch.

The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum and Minerals confirmed Khalifa’s death, describing him as a “prominent son and a distinguished staff” member of the Egyptian oil sector. He was killed while performing his duties at the site.

Condolences from Cairo

Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, Engineer Karim Badawi, extended his deepest condolences to Khalifa’s family, his colleagues at Petrojet, and all oil sector workers. The ministry emphasized full support for the bereaved family, honoring the late engineer’s “dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment.”

Four others injured

The incident also left four others with minor injuries, including two Egyptian and two Pakistani employees. All received medical treatment and have since been discharged, according to the statement.

Previous incident at Habshan

Earlier, on March 19, the Habshan gas facility was temporarily shut after missile debris fell following successful interceptions. No injuries were reported at that time. On the same day, Abu Dhabi’s Bab field was also struck.

The latest incident underscores the widening ripple effects of the regional conflict, which has increasingly threatened critical energy infrastructure across the Gulf.