Iran Attacks UAE, Raising Gulf Security Concerns

A wave of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeted several cities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday, February 29, 2026, and Sunday, March 1, 2026, prompting widespread disruption and raising significant concerns about regional security. The UAE intercepted the majority of the incoming projectiles, but falling debris resulted in one confirmed fatality and multiple injuries.

Details of the Attacks

The UAE Ministry of Defence reported detecting and intercepting a total of 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones launched by Iran. According to the Ministry, 132 of the missiles were destroyed in flight, with five falling into the sea. Similarly, 195 drones were intercepted, whereas 14 impacted within UAE territory and waters, causing some collateral damage [The National News].

Tragically, shrapnel from intercepted missiles struck a residential area in Abu Dhabi, resulting in the death of a Pakistani national and causing damage to property [The National News]. In Dubai, an incident at Dubai International Airport (DXB) caused minor damage to the lobby and injured four employees [Gulf News].

Disruptions and Safety Measures

In response to the attacks, Emirati authorities activated emergency protocols, including the temporary closure of parts of UAE airspace and the suspension of flights. Dubai Airports and Abu Dhabi Airports both experienced cancellations on Saturday, with disruptions expected to continue on Sunday [Reuters]. Schools and universities across the UAE have shifted to distance learning from March 2nd to March 4th, impacting students, teachers, and administrative staff [Gulf News].

The Ministry of Interior issued an emergency alert to residents via mobile phone, advising them to seek shelter in secure buildings, avoid windows and open areas, and await further instructions [Gulf News].

Regional Context and Escalation

These attacks represent a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and Gulf Arab states, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel [The Financial Express]. Analysts suggest that Iran’s targeting of the UAE may be linked to the presence of American military infrastructure on Emirati soil [The Financial Express].

The UAE Ministry of Defence strongly condemned the attacks as a “flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law” [The National News].