Fire erupts at tower in downtown Dubai

Fire has engulfed an under-construction building in downtown Dubai.

Fire broke out at the Fountain Views tower, located near the popular Dubai Mall, about 7.30am local time, the Government of Dubai Media Office tweeted.

Video showed black smoke billowing from the building and blanketing the city.

Dubai Civil Defence has since controlled the blaze, and there are no reports of injuries.

“Cooling operations are underway,” the Dubai Media Office said.

The property has three towers each 60 floors high and had been due to be completed in April 2018.

Major fires have hit Dubai high-rises in recent years and spread quickly, mostly due to flammable material used in cladding, a covering or coating used on the side of the buildings.

On New Year's Eve 2015, a huge blaze ripped through the luxury Address Downtown Hotel, only a few hours before a fireworks display nearby.

It sparked panic and was broadcast live worldwide, but only injured 16 people.