UAE intercepts missiles, drones in Iranian attack: Latest updates so far

The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that since the start of Iranian attacks on February 28, the country’s air force and air defence systems have successfully dealt with 165 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 541 drones.

On the second morning of the assault, forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 311 drones, while 21 drones struck civilian targets, demonstrating the UAE’s ability to counter diverse threats.

Authorities activated nationwide emergency protocols, temporarily closed sections of airspace, suspended flights, and shifted schools to distance learning as precautionary measures.

Here’s all you need to know:

Day 1 – February 28

On Saturday, the ministry reported that 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones were detected, with most intercepted by air defences. Authorities activated emergency protocols, suspended flights, closed parts of UAE airspace, and shifted schools to distance learning to ensure public safety.

Day 2 – March 1

On the second morning of the assault, forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 311 drones, while 21 drones struck civilian targets, demonstrating the UAE’s ability to counter diverse threats.

Casualties and damage

The attacks resulted in 3 deaths (Pakistani, Nepali, and Bangladeshi nationals) and 58 minor injuries among residents of multiple nationalities. Debris from intercepted missiles and drones caused minor to moderate material damage to several civilian properties.

Readiness and public guidance

The ministry emphasised that UAE forces remain fully prepared to respond to any threats, with the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors as the highest priority. The public is urged to rely solely on official sources and avoid spreading unverified information or rumours.

All you need to know for UAE residents: Closures and remote work

Global Village & Dubai Parks and Resorts: Both attractions are also closed today, 1 March, to ensure the safety of visitors, staff, and residents. Guests with existing bookings are advised to check official websites for updates.

Ain Dubai: The UAE’s iconic Ferris wheel remains closed today. Visitors should confirm ticket or booking details online before planning a visit.

Remote work recommendations: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has urged private sector companies to implement remote working where possible and limit employee presence in open areas, except for essential roles. These measures are in effect from 1–3 March 2026. Local authorities retain the right to adjust arrangements based on evolving conditions.

DIFC operations: Dubai International Financial Centre will operate remotely from 2–4 March, with normal Ramadan hours maintained. Residents and businesses are advised to follow official instructions, stay indoors where possible, and enable remote working for staff. For security concerns, DIFC’s hotline is 050 285 5999.

Authorities emphasise that these measures are precautionary, and residents should rely solely on verified official sources for updates and guidance. 

Drone debris hits Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi

Authorities in Abu Dhabi are responding to an incident in which debris from a drone, intercepted by air defence systems, fell onto the façade of a building at Etihad Towers. A woman and her child sustained minor injuries, and limited material damage was reported.

Officials clarified that the loud sounds heard across the emirate were caused by the successful interception operations.

Two injured as drone debris fell into courtyards in Dubai

Dubai authorities confirmed that debris from drones intercepted by air defence systems fell in the courtyards of two homes, injuring two residents who have since received medical care.

The Government of Dubai Media Office clarified that the loud sounds heard across the emirate were caused by the successful interception operations, with no further harm reported.

CBSE postpones Class 10, 12 Board exams

India's Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially postponed all Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations scheduled for Monday, March 2, across seven Middle East countries citing the current situation in the region. The board said new dates for the postponed exams would be announced later.

This is applicable to students in the UAE, Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

The Board clarified that it would review the situation on Tuesday, March 3, and take appropriate decisions with regard to examinations scheduled from March 5 onwards.

UAE intercepts 137 missiles, 209 drones

The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones launched towards the country since the start of the Iranian attack. Of the 137 ballistic missiles detected, 132 were destroyed, while five fell into the sea. The Ministry said the Air Force and Air Defence units demonstrated high readiness in countering multiple threats.

Debris from intercepted missiles and drones fell across several areas, causing minor material damage to civilian properties. Authorities secured affected sites and implemented safety measures immediately.

Casualties and local incidents

One killed near Zayed International Airport

Abu Dhabi Airports said competent authorities dealt with an incident resulting from the interception of a drone targeting Zayed International Airport. Falling debris caused the death of a Pakistani national and injured seven others. The airport operator urged the public not to circulate rumours and to obtain updates from official sources only.

Four injured at Dubai International

Dubai Airports confirmed that an incident occurred at Dubai International Airport (DXB), leaving four people injured. Emergency response teams were activated immediately, and those affected received urgent medical assistance.

Minor fire at Burj Al Arab

Authorities confirmed that debris from an intercepted drone caused a minor fire on the outer façade of the Burj Al Arab. Civil Defence teams brought the fire under control. No injuries were reported.

Fire contained at Palm Jumeirah

Dubai authorities said an incident at a building in Palm Jumeirah led to a fire that has since been controlled by Dubai Civil Defence. Four individuals were injured and transferred to medical facilities. Officials stressed that the safety of residents and visitors remains the highest priority and urged the public to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified content.

UAE expresses condolences to Pakistani victim

The UAE conveyed its sincere condolences and deepest sympathies to the family of the Pakistani national who lost his life in the attacks, expressing full solidarity with them. Authorities stressed that targeting civilians and civilian objects is strictly prohibited under international law and humanitarian principles.

UAE condemns attacks

Several Iranian missiles and drones were intercepted by UAE air defence systems during the evening, successfully preventing any major damage. Debris fell in parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, but no injuries were reported.

The Ministry described the strikes as a violation of national sovereignty and international law, reaffirming the UAE’s right to take all necessary measures to protect its territory and people. Residents were urged to rely solely on official sources for information.

The UAE Ministry of Defence condemned the attacks as a dangerous escalation and a breach of national sovereignty. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the strikes as a violation of international law and the UN Charter, reaffirming the country’s solidarity with affected nations in the region.

Distance learning announced

The Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research confirmed that all public and private schools and universities will shift to distance learning from March 2 to March 4.

Airspace closures and airline suspensions

Partial airspace closure

The General Civil Aviation Authority announced a temporary partial closure of UAE airspace due to heightened security risks. Permits for drones, gliders, and recreational aircraft have been suspended for one week.

Abu Dhabi Dubai and Sharjah operations halted

Abu Dhabi Airports warned that some inbound and outbound flights at Zayed International Airport (AUH) may face delays, diversions, or cancellations due to the temporary closure of UAE airspace.

Dubai Airports confirmed that flights at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) remain suspended, while Sharjah Airport Authority has halted all operations at Sharjah International Airport.

Passengers are advised not to travel to airports and to check flight status directly with their airlines.

Etihad extends flight suspension

Etihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 02:00 UAE time on Monday, March 2, citing ongoing regional airspace disruptions. Passengers are advised to check flight status on etihad.com, update contact details, and rebook free of charge on Etihad-operated flights until March 15, 2026, or request a full refund. The airline stressed that schedules remain fluid and safety is the highest priority.

Emirates suspends Dubai operations

Emirates has temporarily suspended all operations to and from Dubai until 15:00 UAE time on Sunday, March 1, due to multiple regional airspace closures. Passengers scheduled to travel within the next 72 hours can either rebook on an alternative flight within 10 days of their original travel date or request a refund.

Those who booked through travel agents should contact their agents, while direct bookings should contact Emirates. The airline urged travellers to check flight status and ensure contact details are updated for notifications.

flydubai halts flights

All flydubai flights to and from Dubai have been suspended until 15:00 UAE time on Sunday, March 1, in light of ongoing developments. The airline is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with authorities, while implementing comprehensive customer care measures for affected passengers.

Air Arabia suspends UAE flights

Air Arabia has temporarily suspended all flights to and from the UAE due to ongoing airspace closures. Affected customers will be notified directly via email and SMS. Operations will resume once airspace reopens. The airline emphasised that passenger and crew safety remains the top priority and apologised for the inconvenience. Passengers should follow official channels for updates.

Passenger guidance

Travelers scheduled for today are urged to confirm their flights with their airlines before heading to the airport. Abu Dhabi Airports stressed that updates will be shared as they become available and advised the public to rely solely on official sources for information.

Support for affected passengers

The GCAA confirmed the activation of contingency plans to manage disruptions. Around 20,200 passengers affected by rescheduled flights have been provided accommodation, meals, and rebooking support, with the UAE covering hosting costs.

Situation under control, public urged to stay vigilant

National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said the situation remains under control with round-the-clock monitoring.

UAE Public Prosecution warned against circulating rumours or false information, stressing potential legal consequences. Residents were urged to avoid approaching debris and to rely on official updates only.

Markets stable, no need for stockpiling

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism affirmed that strategic reserves remain robust, with essential goods widely available. Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri said supply chains are operating normally and urged the public to avoid excessive stockpiling.

UAE warns against misinformation, reiterates readiness

The Ministry strongly condemned the attack in the strongest terms, reiterating the UAE’s categorical rejection of such acts, describing them as a serious escalation and a cowardly assault threatening civilian safety and regional stability. Officials stressed that the targeting represents a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law, affirming the UAE’s full right to respond and take all necessary measures to protect its territory, people, and national interests.

The Ministry confirmed it remains on high alert, fully prepared to address any threats, and emphasised that the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors is a top priority. Authorities urged the public to rely solely on official sources and avoid circulating rumours or unverified information.

The UAE Public Prosecution warned that publishing or sharing false news or unverified content from unknown sources could create confusion and jeopardise security. Individuals who circulate such content may face legal accountability, even if they are not the original creators, and the Public Prosecution stressed the importance of consulting only official, approved sources.