US, Israel war on Iran escalates: UAE airlines extend flight cancellations

The Israeli military said it launched a fresh wave of strikes targeting Iranian ballistic missile and air defence sites on Sunday, while an AFP journalist in Tehran reported hearing loud blasts.

Tehran's enemies Israel and the United States began waves of strikes on Saturday, calling for regime change in Iran and prompting retaliation from the Islamic republic.

A military statement said Israeli forces had begun "an additional strike wave targeting the ballistic missile array and the aerial defence systems belonging to the Iranian terror regime".

In a separate statement, the military said "dozens of Israeli Air Force fighter jets" had struck more than 30 targets in western and central Iran, "including aerial defence systems, missile launchers, regime targets and military command centres".

Iranian media reported on Sunday that the daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed in US and Israeli strikes.

"After establishing contact with informed sources in the Supreme Leader's household, the news of the martyrdom of the daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter of the Revolutionary Leader has unfortunately been confirmed," Fars news agency and other Iranian media reported.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is dead, Iranian state media reported early Sunday.

Iranian state television and the state-run IRNA news agency reported the 86-year-old's death, without elaborating on a cause.

US President Donald Trump said hours earlier that Khamenei was killed in a joint American-Israeli operation targeting Iran.

IndiGo issued a travel advisory stating that the airline will communicate any probable adjustments to the passengers in view of the escalating tension in the Middle East.

"We remain vigilant and continue to closely monitor developments in the region around Iran and the Middle East, with the safety and security of our customers and crew always as our highest priority. We understand that the evolving nature of the situation may cause uncertainty. Please be assured that our teams are carefully reviewing all developments and taking measured decisions with utmost responsibility," the advisory stated.

IndiGo further urged the passengers to keep a track of their flight status on the official website of the airline.

Iran state television announced a 40-day mourning period and seven public holidays following the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been in power since 1989.

"With the martyrdom of the supreme leader, his path and mission neither will be lost nor will be forgotten, on the other hand, they will be pursued with greater vigour and zeal," a presenter said.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Sunday they would launch the "most ferocious" operation in history against Israel and US bases.

"The most ferocious offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran's armed forces will begin any moment now," the Guards posted on Telegram.

Israel's military said it was responding to Iranian missile fire on Sunday, with air raid sirens activated across central Israel and parts of the occupied West Bank.

"Sirens were sounded in several areas across the country, following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward the State of Israel," a military statement said, adding that the air force was "operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary".

The Ministry of Interior of Qatar announced that eight additional injuries were recorded as a result of the Iranian attack, bringing the total number of people injured to 16. Limited material damage was also reported in various areas.

Security authorities and Civil Defence teams immediately activated response plans to safeguard public safety, maintain essential services and address any emergencies. The Ministry urged residents to comply with official instructions, stay indoors, limit movement unless necessary, avoid approaching debris or unidentified objects, and report them via emergency number 999.

It emphasised the importance of relying solely on official sources and warned against circulating rumours, images or videos of the aftermath to avoid legal consequences. Specialised teams remain deployed around the clock to respond and contain impacts.

Air India has announced the cancellation of several international flights scheduled for 1 March, citing the evolving situation in the Middle East. The airline stressed that the safety and security of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.

Affected services include flights between Delhi and London, Birmingham, Amsterdam, Zurich, Milan, Vienna, Copenhagen, and Frankfurt, as well as Mumbai-London and Bengaluru-London routes.

Passengers impacted by the cancellations are being contacted directly and assisted with rebooking and alternative travel arrangements. The airline urged travellers to check the latest flight status and to contact the 24×7 call centre at +91 1169329333 or +91 1169329999 for further support.

An Air India spokesperson said: “Close monitoring and careful assessment of the evolving situation have necessitated these operational adjustments. We regret the inconvenience caused and are making every effort to assist affected passengers.”

A flydubai spokesperson said all flights to and from Dubai have been suspended until 15:00 (UAE time) on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in light of the ongoing developments in the region.

The spokesperson added in a statement issued this morning: “We are closely monitoring the situation and working in coordination with the relevant authorities, while making the necessary adjustments to our flight schedule accordingly. 

“Our teams are implementing comprehensive customer care measures for all affected passengers. The safety of our travellers and crew remains our top priority.”

Emirates has announced that all operations to and from Dubai have been temporarily suspended until 15:00 (UAE time) on Sunday, March 1, due to multiple regional airspace closures.

The airline said passengers scheduled to travel within the next 72 hours can either rebook on an alternative flight to their intended destination within 10 days of their original travel date or request a refund.

Customers who booked through travel agents have been advised to contact their agents, while those who booked directly with Emirates should contact the airline.

Emirates urged travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and ensure their contact details are updated through the airline’s booking management system to receive the latest notifications.

• Missiles and drones intercepted: UAE air defence systems destroyed 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones since the start of the Iranian attack; 132 missiles destroyed mid-air, five fell into the sea.

• Debris and minor damage: Falling debris caused limited material damage in parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai; two casualties reported, including a Pakistani national near Zayed International Airport and an Asian national.

• Local incidents: Four injured at Dubai International Airport; minor fires at Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah controlled by Civil Defence.

• Condolences issued: UAE expressed sympathy to the family of the Pakistani victim; authorities condemned targeting of civilians under international law.

• Government condemnation: Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced the attacks as a breach of national sovereignty and international law.

• Education measures: Public and private schools, as well as universities, shifted to distance learning from March 2–4.

• Airspace and flight disruptions:

  • Partial UAE airspace closure: Drone, glider, and recreational aircraft permits suspended for one week.

  • Flights affected: Operations impacted at AUH, DXB, DWC, and Sharjah International; passengers advised to check with airlines.

  • Airline suspensions: Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia have temporarily halted flights; rebooking and refund options available.

  • Passenger support: Around 20,200 passengers affected by rescheduled flights; UAE covered meals, accommodation, and rebooking costs.

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, urging the country not to retaliate against the US or Israel.

On his Truth Social platform, he wrote: “Iran just stated that they are going to hit very hard today, harder than they have ever hit before. THEY BETTER NOT DO THAT, HOWEVER, BECAUSE IF THEY DO, WE WILL HIT THEM WITH A FORCE THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE!”

The warning follows statements from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which threatened attacks on US bases and Israel in response to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. “The most devastating offensive operation in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran's armed forces will begin toward the occupied territories and American terrorist bases in just moments,” the IRGC said earlier.

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 before travelling and ensure their contact details are up to date. Guests holding tickets issued on or before February 28 for travel up to March 2 may rebook free of charge on Etihad-operated flights until March 15, 2026, or request a full refund via the website or their travel agent.

The airline is experiencing a high volume of calls and asks for patience as response times may be longer than usual. Etihad emphasised that the situation remains fluid and schedules may change at short notice. Authorities are working closely with the airline to resume normal operations as soon as conditions allow.

The airline stressed that the safety of passengers and staff remains its highest priority and apologised for the inconvenience.

Iran has prepared for "all scenarios", including the way forward, after the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei following US and Israeli strikes, its parliament's speaker said on Sunday.

"We have prepared ourselves for these moments and have considered all scenarios," Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said in a video carried on state TV, adding US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have "crossed our red lines" and "will suffer the consequences".

The Ministry of External Affairs has advised all foreign nationals in India who have had to change their travel plans due to ongoing developments in the West Asia region to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for assistance.

The FRRO will help with visa extensions or other formalities needed to regularise their stay. Contact details for the FRRO offices are available at https://boi.gov.in/boi/#. The advisory was issued on March 1, 2026.

IndiGo has extended the temporary suspension of select international flights that use Middle East airspace until March 2, 23:59 IST, citing safety concerns amid ongoing regional developments. Passengers affected by the cancellations can check the full list of flights on the airline’s website, rebook their travel, or claim a full refund.

IndiGo has also announced full flexibility and waivers for flights to and from the Middle East and other impacted international sectors until 7 March 2026 for bookings made on or before February 28, allowing customers to reschedule at no additional cost or request a full refund. The airline emphasised that all decisions are being taken with passenger safety as the highest priority and urged travellers to stay updated via their registered contact details.

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force confirmed that the Kingdom’s air defence systems successfully intercepted 45 missiles and 9 drones, including Shahed-136 types, launched in hostile Iranian attacks.

Authorities reassured the public that defensive systems remain fully operational and at the highest state of readiness to address any threats to national security. Specialist teams continue securing affected sites to ensure the safety of citizens and residents.

The General Command urged the public to remain indoors unless necessary, exercise caution, and rely solely on official sources, warning against circulating rumours or unverified reports.

Following the drone attack on Bahrain International Airport, the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the immediate activation of rapid response protocols, with only minor material damage reported. Government hospitals treated three minor injuries, all discharged, while a fourth person remains under observation.

Iran's security chief Ali Larijani said the transition process following the killing of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will begin from Sunday.

"An interim leadership council will soon be formed. The president, the head of the judiciary and a jurist from the Guardian Council will assume responsibility until the election of the next leader," said Larijani, the head of Iran's top security body, the Supreme National Security Council, who was an adviser to Khamenei.

"This council will be established as soon as possible. We are working to form it as early as today," he said in an interview broadcast by state TV.

Bahrain International Airport was targeted on Sunday in a drone attack, causing minor material damage, a senior civil aviation official confirmed. Authorities had activated approved emergency plans in advance, including evacuating the passenger terminal, to protect passengers and staff.

Rapid response protocols were implemented immediately, with coordination ongoing among relevant agencies to ensure the airport’s security and the safety of all passengers and staff.

The US Embassy in Jordan has warned that missiles, drones, or rockets may be present in Jordanian airspace. Residents and visitors are urged to seek overhead cover, remain indoors, and follow all local alerts and announcements.

The embassy will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary. Those in need of assistance can contact the embassy in Amman at +962 6 590-6000 during business hours or +962 6 590-6500 after hours. US citizens are also advised to enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time security updates.

Authorities recommend monitoring local media, staying aware of your surroundings, contacting airlines for flight updates, and calling Jordanian police at 911 in case of immediate danger.

The Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported that the Civil Defence responded to a minor fire in the Industrial Area, caused by falling shrapnel following the interception of a missile.

No injuries have been reported. Authorities confirmed that the situation is under control.

Flight operations at Qatar Airways remain temporarily suspended following the closure of Qatari airspace.

In an operational update, the airline confirmed that services will resume only once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of the country’s airspace.

“Qatar Airways flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe reopening of Qatari airspace,” the airline said.

The carrier added that a further update will be provided on March 2 by 9 am Doha time (06:00 UTC).

Iran's chief of army staff and defence minister were killed in an airstrike targeting a meeting of the country's defense council, Iranian state television reported Sunday.

Gen. Abdol Rahim Mousavi and Defence Minister Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh were killed at the meeting alongside the head of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard and security adviser Ali Shamkhani, whose deaths Iran previously announced Sunday morning.

The United Nations' nuclear agency will hold an extraordinary meeting on Iran on Monday in the wake of the US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic, aimed in part at Tehran's atomic programme.

In a statement late on Saturday, the Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency said it would convene a "special session of the IAEA Board of Governors on matters related to military strikes of the United States and Israel against the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran" at Russia's request.

Air Arabia has temporarily suspended all flights to and from the UAE due to ongoing airspace restrictions. Customers with flights scheduled within the next 24 hours will be notified via email and SMS with alternative options.

Passengers who booked through travel agents should contact their agents directly. All travellers are urged to ensure their contact details are up to date via the Manage Booking portal and to check flight status on the airline’s website before heading to the airport.

The airline said it is closely monitoring the situation, with passenger and crew safety remaining its top priority. For the latest updates, customers are advised to follow Air Arabia’s official communication channels.

Dubai authorities have confirmed that debris from drones intercepted by air defences fell in the courtyards of two homes in Dubai, resulting in two injuries. The injured have received the necessary medical care.

Authorities also clarified that the sounds heard across the emirate were the result of successful interception operations.

India's Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an urgent warning after a fake circular falsely claiming the cancellation of select Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations began circulating among students and parents in the Middle East.

"Important alert! This is a fake circular. An official update will follow," CBSE Headquarters said in a social media post on Sunday morning.

SpiceJet has confirmed that all flights to and from the UAE will remain cancelled on March 2, 2026. Passengers are advised to check their booking details and follow updates through the airline’s official channels for rebooking or refund options.

Qatar’s Ministries of Defense, Interior, and Foreign Affairs confirmed that the country’s armed forces successfully intercepted multiple waves of Iranian missiles. Authorities reported no casualties. The operation highlights Qatar’s high state of readiness and continued vigilance to protect national security.

Oman News Agency has confirmed that Oman’s Duqm commercial port was struck by two drones, a security source reported. One drone hit a mobile workers’ accommodation, injuring an expatriate worker, while debris from the second fell near fuel tanks with no casualties or damage.

Emirates has temporarily suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 15:00 UAE time on Monday, 2 March, due to multiple regional airspace closures.

Passengers booked to travel before or on 5 March can:

• Rebook on an alternate flight within 20 days of the original travel date. Contact your travel agent or Emirates directly depending on how you booked.

• Request a refund via Emirates if booked directly, or through your travel agent.

Customers are urged to check flight status before heading to the airport and ensure their contact details are up to date via Manage Booking.

Emirates is closely monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant authorities. The airline apologised for the inconvenience, stressing that passenger and crew safety remains the top priority.

Air Arabia has temporarily suspended all flights to and from the UAE until 15:00 UAE time on Monday, 2 March, due to ongoing airspace closures. Flights to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq are suspended until 3 March.

Passengers with affected flights will be notified directly via email and SMS. Those who booked through travel agents should contact their agents directly.

All customers are encouraged to ensure their contact details are up to date via the Manage Booking page on AirArabia’s website and to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

The airline continues to closely monitor the situation and stressed that passenger and crew safety remains the highest priority. For the latest updates, follow AirArabia’s official channels.

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.

Several explosions were heard on Sunday in the Iranian capital, an AFP journalist said, amid US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

The blasts were heard in northern Tehran and smoke was seen emanating from a building, the journalist said. It was not immediately clear what the target was.

Oman’s Maritime Security Center reported that the oil tanker SKYLIGHT, flying the flag of the Republic of Palau, was targeted five nautical miles north of Khasab port in the Musandam Governorate.

All 20 crew members—15 of Indian nationality and five Iranian—were safely evacuated. Initial reports indicate that four crew members sustained varying injuries and have been transferred for medical treatment.

Air Arabia has temporarily suspended flights to and from the UAE until 15:00 (UAE time) on Monday, March 2, due to multiple airspace closures. Flights to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq remain suspended until March 3.

Passengers with flights within the next 24 hours will be notified via email and SMS regarding alternative options, while those booked through travel agents are advised to contact their agents directly. Customers are encouraged to keep contact details updated via the airline’s Manage Booking portal and to regularly check flight status on the official website.

Air Arabia confirmed that its teams are actively monitoring the situation, emphasising that the safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority.

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. They urged the public not to spread rumours or misleading information and to rely solely on verified sources, assuring that updates will be provided as soon as they become available.

Etihad Airways has suspended all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until 02:00 UAE time on Monday, March 2, due to ongoing regional airspace closures. Passengers are urged to check their flight status at etihad.com and ensure contact details in their booking are up to date.

Guests holding Etihad tickets issued on or before February 28, 2026, with original travel dates up to March 3, may rebook free of charge on Etihad-operated flights until March 15. Full refunds are available for all flights until March 3 via the airline’s website or travel agents.

Etihad is experiencing high call volumes and appreciates passenger patience, emphasising that schedules may change at short notice. The airline continues to coordinate with relevant authorities and prioritises the safety of guests and staff, promising to resume normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

Iran's police intelligence chief Gholamreza Rezaian was killed during US and Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic, local media reported Sunday.

"General Gholamreza Rezaian, head of the national police intelligence, was killed following the yesterday's (Saturday) enemy attacks," Fars news agency reported, alongside other media outlets.

Qatar’s Ministry of Interior has reaffirmed its field readiness amid ongoing developments, urging the public to avoid gathering at incident sites and to report any suspicious objects by calling 999.

The ministry said security patrols and emergency teams remain deployed across various areas under approved readiness plans, in coordination with relevant authorities, to address any potential developments.

Officials stressed that residents should not head to incident locations, allowing ambulance services, civil defence units, and security patrols to move freely and carry out their duties efficiently.

The ministry also warned the public not to approach unidentified objects or remains and to report them immediately to emergency services.

Kuwait’s Air Defence Force intercepted a number of hostile aerial targets on Sunday morning, acting with what officials described as high efficiency and professionalism.

In a statement, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence said the targets were detected and neutralised within the operational zone south of the country as part of heightened readiness measures to safeguard national airspace. No injuries were reported.

He added that the armed forces remain fully prepared to respond to any potential developments, reaffirming their commitment to preserving the country’s security and stability.

Air France cancelled its flights scheduled for Sunday to Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh as a result of Israeli-US strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliation, the airline said in a statement.

Those suspensions came on top of the previously announced cancellation of its flights to Tel Aviv in Israel.

"Air France will provide further information on its flight schedule to these destinations for the following days at a later date," the French flag carrier said in a statement.

The National Communication Centre (NCC) confirmed that the Bahrain Defence Force’s air defence systems responded with high efficiency and full operational readiness to a fresh wave of hostile Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeting the Kingdom of Bahrain, successfully intercepting and destroying them.

The Centre stated that limited debris from the interception operations was reported across several areas. Authorities immediately deployed specialist teams and initiated field procedures to secure the sites and mitigate any resulting impact.

The NCC affirmed that these attacks constitute a violation of the Kingdom’s sovereignty and national security, stressing that the safety of citizens and residents remains an absolute priority. Full readiness continues around the clock to confront any threats to the nation’s security and stability.

The Centre urged the public to rely exclusively on official sources for information and to disregard rumours or unverified reports.

The Ministry of Defence of Qatar confirmed that fighter jets and air defence systems successfully dealt with a new wave of air attacks involving drones and missiles launched by Iran towards the country’s airspace.

Monitoring and early warning systems detected the incoming targets immediately upon entering surveillance range, and interceptions were carried out using an integrated air defence system. The Ministry confirmed that no casualties were reported.

Qatar affirmed that it continues to take all necessary measures to safeguard its territory and airspace, while closely monitoring developments through official channels.

The UAE Ministry of Interior has categorically denied any connection between the Ministry or its agencies and communications originating from the number 70614213 or any other numbers, confirming that these messages are part of electronic fraud and impersonation attempts.

Authorities advised the public not to respond to such calls or share sensitive information, including QID numbers or verification codes. They stressed that official entities never request personal or banking details via calls or anonymous links.

The Ministry confirmed that the perpetrators are being tracked and will face legal action, urging everyone to rely solely on official sources and to report suspicious activity immediately through designated channels.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) has confirmed that UAE authorities are monitoring the situation around the clock, conducting continuous and careful assessments of all developments.

The national readiness system remains fully active, with all measures focused on protecting the community and ensuring that daily life continues safely and without disruption. Authorities stressed that public safety is the top priority, and maintaining reassurance is taken seriously.

The UAE’s Ministry of Education on Sunday dismissed reports circulating on social media that final or end-of-term examinations for the current academic year had been cancelled, urging students and parents to rely only on official channels for verified information. 

In a statement, the ministry said the claims were inaccurate and stressed that any decisions related to students, schools or academic assessments would be announced through its approved communication platforms.  

It stressed the importance of avoiding unverified sources and misinformation, particularly during periods of heightened regional uncertainty. 

Global Village has been closed on 1 March as a precautionary safety measure, authorities confirmed. The decision follows official guidance to ensure the safety and wellbeing of visitors, staff, and residents. Updates regarding reopening will be provided through official channels.

Iran named Ayatollah Alireza Arafi to its interim leadership council, which will be at the helm of the country following the killing of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Sunday.

"The Expediency Discernment Council has elected Ayatollah Alireza Arafi as a member of the interim leadership council," said expediency council spokesman Mohsen Dehnavi in a post on X.

The interim council, which will also include the president and the head of the judiciary, will lead the country until the Assembly of Experts "elects a permanent leader as soon as possible".

The Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated its 24/7 Crisis Management Unit (CMU) to closely monitor the evolving situation in the Middle East and Gulf region and provide necessary support. Pakistani nationals are urged to exercise caution, stay indoors where possible, avoid non-essential travel, and follow all instructions and advisories issued by host governments.

Nationals are urged to report suspicious activity immediately, avoid rumors, and rely solely on official sources.

CMU is available 24/7 at +92-51-9207887 for assistance.

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi has informed the Pakistani community in the UAE that flight operations have not yet resumed amid the ongoing situation. Travellers are advised to rely solely on official information from the Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai.

Before heading to the airport, passengers should confirm their flight status directly with the respective airline. The Embassy and Consulate can be reached via the following contacts:

Embassy, Abu Dhabi: +971 2 4447800 (Landline), +971 50 254 8975 (Mobile), +971 50 124 8934 (WhatsApp)
Consulate General, Dubai: +971 56 647 2721 (Mobile)

Authorities emphasised that all updates will be shared through official channels only to ensure accurate and verified information.

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Authority has issued guidance to its community in light of ongoing regional uncertainties, urging residents, businesses, and clients to follow official instructions issued by the Dubai and UAE Government.

Authorities advise individuals to remain indoors where possible, avoid windows, doors, and open areas, and for expatriates to consult the advisories of their home countries. Businesses within DIFC are encouraged to continue business continuity plans and enable remote working where feasible.

DIFC Authority confirmed it will continue providing services, with employees initially working remotely from Monday, March , 2  to Wednesday, March 4. Normal Ramadan working hours remain in effect:

• DIFC Authority: Monday to Thursday 9:00–15:00, Friday 9:00–12:00

• DIFC Services: Monday to Thursday 9:00–14:00, Friday 9:00–11:00

The Authority said the situation is being closely monitored and further updates will be issued if arrangements change. For security concerns, residents and businesses can contact the DIFC Security Hotline at 050 285 5999.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) has praised the awareness and cooperation of UAE community members, noting it as a key factor in effectively managing various situations.

Officials highlighted that residents’ commitment to following official directives, along with their calm and responsible behaviour, reflects the strong sense of responsibility that defines the UAE community.

NCEMA emphasised that the partnership between the public and authorities helps safeguard national security and promotes peace of mind for all residents.

The Office of Private Education Affairs in Ajman has announced that all private schools will transition to distance learning from Monday, March 2, to Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

The decision applies to students, teaching staff, and administrative personnel in all private educational institutions across the emirate. In-person classes will resume based on further updates announced by authorities.

The Israeli military said on Sunday that it had destroyed around half of Iran’s missile stockpile, adding that Tehran had been producing dozens of surface-to-surface missiles each month.

In televised remarks, military spokesperson Avi Duvdevani said: “During the operation, we destroyed about half of the Iranian regime’s missile arsenal and prevented the production of at least 1,500 additional missiles.”

He added that in recent months Iran had been producing dozens of surface-to-surface missiles monthly and had planned to increase production to hundreds.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said Sunday that he hopes the ongoing confrontation with Iran will usher in a "new era" for the entire Middle East, including Iran.

"This is a historic effort to change the trajectory in the Middle East to a different future, a future of peace," Herzog said while inspecting a site in Tel Aviv where an Iranian missile had struck the previous day.

"We shall overcome and hopefully bring a new era to the Middle East and Iran," he added.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has recommended that private sector establishments in the UAE implement remote working arrangements wherever possible and limit the presence of employees in open areas, except for vital roles requiring physical attendance.

This directive will be in effect for three days, from Sunday, 1 March, to Tuesday, 3 March 2026. The Ministry clarified that decisions to suspend work, or modify arrangements, remain under the authority of local competent authorities based on developments in the ongoing situation.

MOHRE urged private sector establishments to follow official updates from federal and local sources to ensure compliance and the safety of employees.

Dubai Parks and Resorts has announced that it will remain closed today as a precautionary safety measure, following official guidance.

Guests are advised to check the official website or updates page for the latest information on reopening and guidance regarding existing bookings.

UAE’s giant Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai, is closed today as a precautionary safety measure, it was announced today, Mar 1.

This is in line with the UAE’s official guidance as regional tensions are dealt with by authorities.

The tourist hotspot said on its Insta handle: “If you have an existing booking or ticket, please check our website for the latest information before visiting.”

The Sharjah Government Media Bureau said that videos and images circulating on social media claiming to show recent incidents in the emirate are old and misleading and do not reflect the current situation.

The bureau clarified that some of the footage dates back to previous fires, while other clips relate to a blaze caused by an electrical fault, stressing that none of the material is linked in any way to ongoing international developments.

It urged the public and media outlets to exercise accuracy and responsibility, and to rely only on official channels and verified sources for information, warning against the spread of rumours or unverified news due to their direct impact in causing confusion and misleading public opinion.

The bureau also emphasised that publishing or republishing such content could expose those responsible to legal accountability under the country’s applicable laws.

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence said the country’s air force and air defence systems have so far dealt with 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 Iranian drones since the start of the Iranian attack on February 28, 2026. 

Day 2 attacks see 20 missiles destroyed

The ministry said that on the second morning of the attack, the armed forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, while eight missiles fell into the sea. 

It added that two cruise missiles and 311 drones were also destroyed, while 21 drones struck civilian targets, affirming the capability of the UAE’s air and air defence forces to address various threats.

It stated that since the beginning of the attack, 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran towards the country had been detected, with 152 destroyed and 13 falling into the sea. 

Two cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed. In addition, 541 Iranian drones were tracked, of which 506 were intercepted and destroyed, while 35 landed inside the country, causing material damage.

Casualties reported

The incidents resulted in three fatalities of Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationalities, and 58 minor injuries among people of Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationalities.

The ministry noted that some debris fell in various parts of the country as a result of air defence systems intercepting ballistic missiles and drones, causing minor to moderate material damage to several civilian properties.

UAE armed forces fully prepared

It affirmed that the armed forces remain fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats, stressing that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains a top priority. 

 The ministry also urged the public to obtain information from official sources and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information.

Dubai’s private sector continues to operate normally, with most commercial activities running without disruption. "We commend the sector’s commitment and resilience in sustaining the emirate’s economic momentum," says Dubai Media Office.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai has directed private schools in the emirate to postpone end-of-term and internal examinations scheduled in the coming days, in line with the implementation of distance learning for three days. 

Schools hosting board exams, external assessments or international examinations have been instructed to coordinate with the authority to receive the necessary guidance on organising them.

Passengers travelling between India and the UAE face continued disruption as major Indian carriers extend flight suspensions and flexibility measures amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

This is a rapidly evolving situation, and authorities have warned that schedules may change at short notice.Passengers travelling between India and the UAE face continued disruption as major Indian carriers extend flight suspensions and flexibility measures amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

This is a rapidly evolving situation, and authorities have warned that schedules may change at short notice.

Kuwait's Ministry of Health announced the death of one and 31 cases of wounded individuals coming through the emergency department at Al-Adan Hospital in light of the ongoing developments in the region. KUNA, which reported the news, said medical teams have begun handling the cases immediately upon their arrival in accordance with the highest levels of readiness and preparedness

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence has announced that specialised teams today responded to an incident resulting from the targeting of a warehouse at Al Salam naval base in Abu Dhabi by two Iranian drones, leading to a fire in two containers storing general materials. No casualties were reported.

Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry said it summoned the Iranian ambassador on Sunday, a day after the kingdom accused Tehran of targeting its territory with strikes.

“Foreign Ministry summons the Iranian ambassador to the Kingdom in response to Iran’s brazen attacks that targeted the Kingdom and a number of brotherly countries,” the ministry said in a statement on its X account.

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has issued a directive to hotel managers across the emirate instructing them to extend the stays of guests affected by flight suspensions, delays or cancellations linked to the current exceptional circumstances.

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi on Sunday evening announced that an Indian expat, who was injured in the Iran attack, is out of danger. “The Embassy is aware of the injury to the Indian national and is in touch with the hospital authorities. The Indian national is out of danger. We are rendering all possible assistance,” the mission stated on social media.

The Indian national was one of the 58 individuals who sustained minor injuries, according to the UAE Ministry of Defence.

The UAE has strongly condemned the Iranian attacks targeting Oman, describing these hostile acts as a dangerous escalation, a blatant violation of state sovereignty, and a direct threat to the security and stability of the region.

Kuwait reduces the number of employees working in government entities to 30 per cent due to the current circumstances.

A Filipino caregiver in Israel has been confirmed to be the first casualty in the ongoing conflict between US, Israel, and Iran.

In a statement, the Philippine Embassy in Israel has announced the death of the overseas Filipino worker during a missile attack in Tel Aviv.

“The victim, Mary Ann V. de Vera, was a 32-year-old caregiver from Basista, Pangasinan, who had been working in Israel since 2019. Her identity was confirmed through biometric records at the Abu Kabir Forensic Institute, where her husband, who also works in Israel, positively identified her remains,” stated the embassy.

The US military took to X, formerly Twitter, to announce it had sunk an Iranian warship.

US Central Command said it sunk an Iranian Jamaran-class corvette in the Gulf of Oman at a Chah Bahar pier.

"As the President said, members of Iran's armed forces, IRGC and police 'must lay down your weapons.' Abandon ship," it said, referring to remarks on Saturday by US President Donald Trump.

The US military is pushing back against claims by Iran's leadership that the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier was struck in an attack, stating that the "missiles launched didn't even come close".

US Central Command said in a post on X that the American warship continues to launch aircraft. The Lincoln is one of two aircraft carriers that the US military has deployed to the region.

Central Command posted its statement shortly after releasing another statement that three US service members have been killed in the US military operation against Iran.

Oman's foreign minister, who had been mediating US-Iran talks, on Sunday urged a ceasefire on a call with his Iranian counterpart, as Tehran launched a second day of strikes in response to ongoing US-Israeli air raids.

Badr Albusaidi "affirmed the Sultanate of Oman's continued call for a ceasefire and a return to dialogue... in a manner that achieves the legitimate demands of all parties," Oman's foreign ministry said in a readout of a call with Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.

On Sunday in Oman, which had been the only Gulf state spared from attack during the first day of the Iranian campaign, the port of Duqm was targeted by two Iranian drones, injuring one foreign worker, official state media reported.

According to the Oman foreign ministry statement, Araghchi said Iran was "calling for peace," and voiced "the openness of the Iranian side to any serious efforts that contribute to stopping the escalation and returning to stability".

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Iran to "immediately stop" its "indiscriminate attacks", while predicting that the country's rule by clerics was coming to an end with the death of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Germany shares Iranians' "relief" to see the "mullah regime come to an end", Merz said at a press conference in Berlin.

He cautioned however that the killing of Khamenei in strikes by the US and Israeli on Tehran had set Iran on a path to an "uncertain future".

Merz confirmed he would be travelling to Washington on Tuesday on a scheduled trip and would discuss Middle East developments with US President Donald Trump.

"Ultimately, we don't know if the plan will succeed," he said of the US-Israeli strikes in which Germany, like Britain and France, did not participate.

He said that Germany would not tolerate any "antisemitic or anti-American" attack on its soil.

The Israeli military on Sunday said it was calling up almost 100,000 reservists as part of its ongoing campaign of strikes against arch-foe Iran.

"The IDF is preparing to call up around 100,000 reservists and is raising its level of readiness on the various fronts as part of Operation 'Roaring Lion'," the military said in a statement, using the name Israel has given to its campaign against Iran which was launched in coordination with the United States on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said he would "be talking" to Iranian leaders but was vague on the timing and noted that much of the country's leadership was dead.

"They want to talk, and I have agreed to talk, so I will be talking to them. They should have done it sooner," Trump was quoted as saying by The Atlantic, as US and Israeli forces press a war against Iran for a second day.

Asked when such talks might take place, Trump said "I can't tell you."

 He added that 48 Iranian leaders have been killed in the US-Israeli bombardments of the country and that the offensive has been "very positive."

"Nobody can believe the success we're having, 48 leaders are gone in one shot. And it's moving along rapidly," Trump was quoted as saying in an interview by Fox News.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed on Sunday to intensify air strikes on Tehran in the coming days, declaring that the military had mobilised its "full strength" in the campaign against Iran.

"I have issued instructions for the continuation of the campaign... Our forces are now striking at the heart of Tehran with intense power, and this will only escalate in the days ahead," Netanyahu said in a video statement.

"We are engaged in a campaign in which the IDF (military) is deploying its full strength as never before, to ensure our existence and our future."

NATO's top commander in Europe is "closely" following developments in Iran and the Middle East and adjusting forces as needed to defend against "potential threats", the alliance said Sunday.

The commander, US General Alexus Grynkewich, "has and will continue to adjust NATO's very strong force posture to ensure the security of its 32 member nations and to defend the Alliance from potential threats," said a NATO statement posted on X.

A series of blasts were heard on Sunday evening in Tehran, though their origin was not immediately known, according to AFP journalists.

At least three detonations shook the capital around 8:30 pm local time (1700 GMT), rattling the windows of one AFP journalist's apartment. The ISNA news agency also reported "several" explosions in eastern and northeastern Tehran.

Some 60 French-owned or -flagged commercial vessels are currently blocked in the Gulf, because of threats in the Strait of Hormuz related to the Iran war, the boss of a French organisation representing shipping companies told AFP.

Those ships have been told by the French navy "to get to safe shelter", Laurent Martens, director general of Armateurs de France, said.

At least seven people were killed at pro-Iran protests in the northern Pakistani city of Gilgit on Sunday, an official told AFP.

"At least seven people were killed in today's clashes in Gilgit," Zaheer Shah, a rescue official told AFP in a phone call, adding many more were injured.

The US State Department has given its non-emergency personnel and their families in Qatar permission to leave the country, the embassy in Doha said on Sunday as Tehran launched a second day of strikes in response to ongoing US-Israeli air raids.

The department, reported AFP, "authorised non-emergency US government employees and family members of government personnel to leave Qatar due to safety risks," the US embassy said in an advisory on its website which also warned Americans to "reconsider travel to Qatar due to the threat of armed conflict".

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The Capital Market Authority has announced that the country’s capital markets will be closed on Monday, March 2, and Tuesday, March 3, including the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market.

New explosions were heard Sunday evening in Erbil, the capital of Iraq's northern Kurdistan region which hosts US bases.

Lound bangs shook the city, an AFP journalist near the US consulate said.

An AFP photographer near Erbil airport, where US-led coalition troops are deployed, said air defences were intercepting attacks, but it is not yet clear whether they involve missiles or drones.

On Sunday morning, Iran, which has been targeting the Gulf states and Israel with a barrage of missiles, said it also hit US bases in Iraq's Kurdistan.

US defence systems later intercepted drones over Erbil, where a small Iran-backed Iraqi group has also claimed drone attacks.

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that US military strikes had sunk nine Iranian naval vessels and partially destroyed Iran's navy headquarters.

"I have just been informed that we have destroyed and sunk 9 Iranian Naval Ships, some of them relatively large and important," Trump said on his Truth Social network.

"We are going after the rest - They will soon be floating at the bottom of the sea, also! In a different attack, we largely destroyed their Naval Headquarters. Other than that, their Navy is doing very well!"

The UAE has condemned in the strongest terms the Iranian attacks targeting the Sultanate of Oman, considering these hostile acts a serious escalation, a flagrant violation of state sovereignty, and a direct threat to regional security and stability.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) affirmed that the expansion of attacks to additional countries is unacceptable and condemned under all legal and political norms, and constitutes a serious escalation that undermines de-escalation efforts and heightens regional tensions.

The UAE has announced the closure of its embassy in Tehran and the withdrawal of its ambassador and all members of its diplomatic mission, while condemning the Iranian missile attacks..

The UAE GCAA is working closely with national airports and airlines to synchronise schedules and activate emergency plans. "We remain committed to supporting all passengers and ensuring a swift, safe return to normal operations across the country," it says.

So far, about 20,200 passengers affected by flight rescheduling have been assisted through temporary accommodation arrangements and facilitated rebooking services

The Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Team held an emergency online coordination meeting, chaired by Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police and Head of the Team, in response to ongoing regional developments and their wider implications.

During the meeting, the team reviewed a comprehensive analysis of the current situation and potential scenarios. It assessed preparedness levels across key sectors, examined the effectiveness of response plans, and evaluated the business continuity measures implemented by the relevant authorities. 

The US military on Sunday announced it had destroyed the headquarters of Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard force on the second day of war to overturn the Iranian government.

"America has the most powerful military on earth, and the IRGC no longer has a headquarters," the US Central Command, or CENTCOM, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, NBC News quoted US President Donald Trump as saying the reason he launched the strikes on Iran was “very simple.”

“They weren’t willing to stop their nuclear research,” he said, referring to earlier talks with US officials.

“They weren’t willing to say they will not have a nuclear weapon.”

Dubai authorities confirm that the sounds heard in various areas of the emirate are the result of successful interception operations by air defenses. The relevant teams continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to ensure everyone's safety, and they urge the public to obtain information from its official sources.

Abu Dhabi: UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday received a phone call from His Excellency Donald Trump, President of the United States of America.

During the call, they discussed the blatant Iranian attacks on the territory of the United Arab Emirates and a number of brotherly countries in the region.

The two leaders also reviewed the developments taking place in the region and their implications for regional and international security and peace, and exchanged views on them.

Eight countries that are part of the OPEC+ announced they will boost production of crude as US and Israeli forces launched a major attack on Iran and the country responded with retaliatory strikes against Israel and US military installations around the Gulf, disrupting oil shipments from the region.

The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), in a Sunday meeting planned before the war began, said it would increase production by 206,000 barrels per day in April, which was more than analysts had been expecting.

The Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) expressed its rejection and condemnation in the strongest terms of the heinous Iranian attacks targeting GCC countries, in addition to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

The Council affirmed that "these attacks constitute a serious violation of the sovereignty of these countries, the principles of good neighbourliness, and a clear breach of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, regardless of any justifications or pretexts".

It further stressed that targeting civilians and civilian objects constitutes a grave violation of the rules of international humanitarian law.

The Council also expressed full solidarity among the GCC countries and their unified stance in confronting these attacks, stressing that the security of GCC member states is indivisible, and that any attack against any member state constitutes a direct attack against all GCC countries, in accordance with the GCC Charter and the Joint Defence Agreement.

The statement was made during the 50th extraordinary meeting via videoconference on Sunday chaired by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain and current President of the Ministerial Council of the GCC, with the participation of:

• Khalifa Shaheen Almarar, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates

• Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

• Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman

• Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar

• Shaikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait

• Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the GCC.

The Council also discussed the necessary measures and steps to coordinate efforts aimed at restoring security and stability and achieving peace in the region.

Britain has agreed to a US request to allow the use of its military bases and airspace for targeted operations against Iranian missile sites, in the context of a rapidly escalating conflict following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the decision in an X post, framing it as a limited defensive measure aimed at intercepting Iranian missiles at their source and protecting British lives and regional stability.

This move comes amid widespread regional unrest since the operation that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei over the weekend.

Starmer clarified that the UK did not participate in the initial US-Israel airstrikes on Iran’s territory but will permit American forces to operate from British bases for specific defensive strikes against Iranian missile depots and launchers, emphasising that the action aligns with collective self-defense and international law.

British jets were already engaged in regional air defense operations, including intercepting Iranian drones and missiles threatening allied bases and civilians.

Israeli strikes were launched at Beirut's southern suburbs on Monday, Lebanese state media reported, as Hezbollah said it fired rockets and drones at Israel in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

"Beirut's southern suburbs were targeted by a series of Israeli strikes," the state-run National News Agency reported.

An AFP journalist heard several loud explosions in Beirut.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned rocket fire launched at Israel on Monday, as the Israeli military launched a series of strikes across Lebanon in response.

"Regardless of who is behind it, the rocket fire from southern Lebanon is an irresponsible and suspicious act that endangers Lebanon's security and safety and gives Israel pretexts to continue its attacks on it," Salam said on X.

Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah claimed responsiblity, saying it had launched rockets and drones overnight at Israel in retaliation for the killing of the Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that he had a shortlist of three names to lead Iran after he launched a war to topple Tehran's ruling clerics.

Trump told The New York Times that he had "three very good choices" for who could lead Iran, but he did not name them.

"I won’t be revealing them now. Let’s get the job done first," he said.

British forces are responding to a suspected drone strike at its military base in Cyprus, the defence ministry said Monday, with no casualties reported.

The strike hit the RAF Akrotiri base at midnight, said the ministry, adding that its forces were handling a "live situation".

"Our force protection in the region is at the highest level and the base has responded to defend our people," a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said in a statement.

The incident came as Britain agreed on Sunday to allow the United States to use British military bases to fire "defensive" strikes aimed at destroying Iranian missiles and their launchers.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) summoned Reza Ameri, Ambassador of Iran to the UAE, and delivered a strongly worded note of protest, conveying the UAE’s condemnation in the strongest terms of Iran’s terrorist attacks and assaults.

The Ministry stressed that the targeting of the UAE’s territory constitutes a blatant violation of its sovereignty, a threat to its national security, and a clear breach of all international conventions, resolutions, and established norms.

The Israeli military told residents of about 50 towns and villages in Lebanon to evacuate on Monday, warning of imminent attacks against Hezbollah militants, following rocket fire at Israel.

"For your safety, evacuate your homes immediately and move at least 1,000 metres (0.6 miles) away from your village to open areas," an army spokeswoman said in a statement on X, listing localities in the country's south and east.

South Lebanon residents fled by car after Israel struck the area in response to Hezbollah rocket fire on Monday, an AFP journalist witnessed.

Heavy traffic coming from the south filled roads in the Lebanese city of Sidon, with cars packed with families and some with mattresses tied to the roof, according to an AFP journalist.

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth will hold a press conference on Monday morning about the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, the first by a senior official since strikes began Saturday.

The press conference will be held at 8:00 am local time Monday (1300 GMT), the Pentagon announced Sunday on X.

Dan Caine, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, will also take part, the Pentagon said.

Pete Hegseth will also visit Congress on Tuesday with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to brief lawmakers on the progress of the military operation, the White House announced Sunday.

Democrats in opposition have complained that they were not consulted before the operation began.

The US and Israeli militaries struck Iran on Saturday, and Iranian state media confirmed Sunday that a strike on Tehran killed Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Follow Day 3 live updates as tensions escalate and regional and global impacts continue.