A Dubai police official reportedly said that the blaze, which started early Wednesday, has killed 11 people and injured six. India’s consul in Dubai, Venu Rajamony, says 10 of the victims were Indian.
Police instructed bystanders to leave the scene in the early afternoon as officials continued their investigation.
Stale smoke could be detected among the narrow lanes filled with shops and leading to the destroyed accommodation, while dozens of shopkeepers and pedestrians looked on as bodies were placed in ambulances at 4.15pm local time.
A watchman at a nearby shop said that the area was closed until 1.30pm, and motorists were prevented from passing through.
Another police official from Dubai’s criminal investigation department, says Tuesday’s blaze engulfed a house in the city’s commercial district. He says up to 1,000 laborers were crammed in the 30-room housing block.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he isn’t authorised to speak to the media, says the fire is under investigation.
Local media also reported that the lease holders of the destroyed accommodation have been arrested. (With inputs from AP)