DUBAI: Sixteen people died and nine others were injured in a massive fire that ripped through a residential building in Dubai on Saturday, the civil defense said.

In a statement released by the Government of Dubai Media Office early Sunday, a Dubai Civil Defense spokesperson said the cause of the blaze in Al Ras area of Deira was “a lack of compliance with building security and safety requirements.”

“Relevant authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to provide a detailed a report on the causes of the accident,” the statement added.

Firefighters rushed to the scene and evacuated the building six minutes after being notified of the fire at 12:35 p.m..

The fire, which broke out in an apartment located on the fourth floor, was put out about two hours later at 2:42 p.m. before cooling operations started.

Sending condolences to the families of the deceased, Dubai civil defense “stressed the importance of residential and commercial building owners and residents fully complying with security and safety requirements and guidelines to avoid accidents and protect people’s lives.”

Eyewitnesses reported seeing large plumes of smoke coming from the building.

A worker in a shop at the building said he heard a “loud bang,” according to Khaleej Times newspaper. A few people tried to rush into the building and rescue the tenants, but the smoke was too dense.

“Fire engines, firemen and police officers were at the spot within minutes. They brought a crane and started helping people. Their swift action helped save many lives,” an eyewitness was quoted saying in Khaleej Times.

Al Ras area is a densely populated area located in old Deira that houses long-standing markets like the Gold Souk, and the Spice Souk.