US‑Israel conflict on Iran escalates on Day 5; UAE affirms right to self‑defence

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Day 4: Dubai contains fire near US Consulate

Day 3: Trump lists 'clear' Iran war objectives

Day 2: UAE airlines extend flight cancellations

Day 1: UAE intercepts missiles; regional airspaces closed

Dubai authorities have extinguished a limited fire that broke out near the United States Consulate in the emirate following a drone-related incident.

According to the Government of Dubai Media Office, the fire was quickly contained by the competent emergency teams, who responded immediately upon receiving reports of the incident.

No injuries were reported, Dubai Media Office confirmed.

UAE air defence systems intercepted 11 ballistic missiles and 123 drones, while one missile landed within the country’s territory without causing human casualties.

Since the beginning of the hostilities:

• Ballistic missiles: 186 detected; 172 destroyed, 13 fell into the sea, 1 landed on UAE territory.

• Drones: 812 detected; 755 intercepted, 57 fell within the country.

• Cruise missiles: 8 detected and destroyed.

These incidents caused three fatalities (Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi nationals) and 68 minor injuries across several nationalities. Some civilian facilities sustained minor to moderate material damage.

Authorities reported that sounds heard across the country were linked to interceptions by air defence systems and fighter jets targeting drones and missiles.

Public guidance and defensive posture

The UAE reaffirmed that it has not altered its defensive posture. The Ministry urged the public to rely on official sources and refrain from circulating rumours. Safety of citizens, residents, and visitors remains the top priority.

Air travel continues under precautionary measures, with 48 flights per hour coordinated across UAE airports.

Containing fire incidents

• Dubai: A fire near the United States Consulate General Dubai was contained; no injuries were reported.

• Abu Dhabi: Authorities contained a fire at the Mussafah fuel tank terminal after a drone incident; operations were unaffected.

• Fujairah: Fire at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone following drone debris was brought under control; normal operations have resumed.

Officials stressed that all incidents caused no human casualties, and urged the public to follow verified government updates.

Essential services and market operations

• Distance learning has been extended nationwide until Friday, 6 March 2026.

• The Federal Authority for Identity Citizenship Customs and Ports Security completed travel procedures for 30,913 travellers, including 15,327 entry visas, enabling safe temporary residence.

• Air travel continues under precautionary measures, with 48 flights per hour managed across UAE airports.

• The UAE Capital Market Authority confirmed that trading on Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange and Dubai Financial Market will resume on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.

• Nasdaq Dubai in DIFC will reopen at 10:00 am GST on the same day, ensuring normal financial activity.

Public guidance

The UAE continues to demonstrate operational readiness, security, and societal cohesion. Citizens, residents, and visitors are advised to:

• Continue normal activities while exercising caution.

• Follow updates via official UAE government channels.

• Avoid spreading unverified information.

The country’s defence, civil, and regulatory authorities remain fully prepared to respond to any threats and safeguard national stability.

The UAE has confirmed that it has not taken any decision to change its defensive posture toward the repeated Iranian attacks.

The country stated that it has been subjected to more than 1,000 attacks, a figure exceeding the total number faced by all other targeted countries combined, noting that its armed forces confronted these attacks with professionalism, efficiency and distinction.

The UAE further affirmed that it has not participated in the war and has not allowed its territory, territorial waters or airspace to be used in any attack against Iran, in line with its policies based on good neighbourliness and de-escalation, and in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.

In this context, the UAE stressed that it retains its right to self-defence, as guaranteed under international law and the UN Charter.

The state also emphasised the importance of journalistic professionalism and the need to obtain information from official and reliable sources before publishing or circulating any inaccurate reports.

The UAE has confirmed that it has not taken any decision to change its defensive posture toward the repeated Iranian attacks.

The country stated that it has been subjected to more than 1,000 attacks, a figure exceeding the total number faced by all other targeted countries combined, noting that its armed forces confronted these attacks with professionalism, efficiency and distinction.

The UAE further affirmed that it has not participated in the war and has not allowed its territory, territorial waters or airspace to be used in any attack against Iran, in line with its policies based on good neighbourliness and de-escalation, and in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations.

In this context, the UAE stressed that it retains its right to self-defence, as guaranteed under international law and the UN Charter.

The state also emphasised the importance of journalistic professionalism and the need to obtain information from official and reliable sources before publishing or circulating any inaccurate reports.

A drone was shot down on Tuesday near Baghdad International Airport, Iraqi authorities said.

"A small drone was downed... on the outskirts of Baghdad International Airport, with no casualties or material damage reported," the Iraqi government's security media cell said.

US and Israeli strikes pummelled targets across Tehran, as President Donald Trump warned it was "too late" for Iran to seek talks to escape a war now in its fourth day.

Drones and missiles crashed into oil facilities and US diplomatic missions in the Gulf as the Islamic republic retaliated, and Israel pushed troops deeper into Lebanon to battle the Tehran-backed militia Hezbollah after it entered the fray.

"Their air defence, air force, navy, and leadership is gone. They want to talk. I said: 'Too late!'," Trump posted on social media, two days after he said he was open to talks and four days after US and Israeli strikes killed supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The Iran-backed Hezbollah said it targeted northern Israel's Haifa naval base on Tuesday, its 12th attack of the day as Israel continued to strike Lebanon, including Beirut's southern suburbs. In a statement, issued overnight on Wednesday, the group said that "in response to the criminal Israeli aggression that struck dozens of Lebanese cities and towns, including Beirut's southern suburbs". The group claimed it launched “a barrage of high-quality missiles” toward the base. The Israeli military had said shortly after 8:00 pm that several incoming projectiles were detected, and most were shot down.

US President Donald Trump, during a meeting with the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said “someone from within” the Iranian regime might be the best choice to take power once the US-Israel military campaign is completed — but said “most of the people we had in mind are dead.”

The president, who four days ago had emphatically called on Iranians to “take over your government” once the US-Israel bombardment ends, appeared to drift further away from the idea that the war presents an opportunity to end the theocratic rule that has been in place since the country's 1979 Islamic revolution.

In a swift response to regional developments, Etihad Rail, under the supervision of Abu Dhabi’s Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre (ADCMC), ran exceptional services between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya, safely moving over 350 passengers before the official launch of the passenger rail service.

The operation ensured a coordinated transfer following temporary flight suspensions, working closely with Saudi authorities to maintain safety and efficiency. Freight services continued uninterrupted, highlighting the UAE railway network’s operational flexibility and resilience.

Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, ADCMC Director General, said the operation reflects the national ecosystem’s readiness and ability to make timely, risk-informed decisions. Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Etihad Rail Chief Projects Officer, added that the network’s technical and human resources delivered the service efficiently, with additional operations planned until air travel resumes.

The successful mission underscores Abu Dhabi’s integrated response framework and the UAE’s capacity to maintain vital services and infrastructure stability amid evolving regional challenges.

Amid surging energy prices and private insurers withdrawing coverage, US President Donald Trump ordered the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to immediately offer affordable political risk insurance and guarantees for all maritime trade, particularly energy shipments, through the Gulf — available to any shipping line.

"If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, as soon as possible," Trump stated in a social media post.

Iran has kept a chokehold on the strategic Strait of Hormuz which has sent the global energy market on a tailspin, and oil prices soaring.

US forces have carried out strikes on close to 2,000 targets across Iran’s military and strategic infrastructure, according to statements from United States Central Command.

These include missile batteries, command and control centers, air defense systems, naval assets (including reports that 11 Iranian ships have been destroyed), and other elements the US regards as posing “imminent threats.”

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has warned residents not to prioritise filming social media content over their personal safety during emergency alerts, stressing that failure to follow official instructions could result in legal accountability.

The reminder follows reports that some residents and motorists have been leaving their homes or stopping their vehicles to record videos after receiving mobile warning notifications.

Authorities emphasised that the alerts are issued solely to protect the public and require immediate compliance, not documentation by bystanders.

The Israeli military called on people to leave 16 towns and villages in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, in an "urgent warning" before using force against Hezbollah militants.

"For your safety, you must evacuate your homes immediately" and head to "open areas", said a statement shared by the military's Arabic-language spokesman Avichay Adraee, listing 16 locations near the border.

Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence said its air defences intercepted and destroyed several hostile aerial targets that entered the country’s airspace early on Wednesday, in an operation that led to debris falling on a residential home and causing casualties.

In a statement, the ministry said the targets were detected and intercepted inside Kuwait’s airspace and were destroyed by the armed forces. Debris from the interception fell on a residential house, resulting in human injuries and material damage.

The Kuwaiti armed forces said they remain fully engaged in carrying out their duties and are taking all necessary measures to protect the country’s territory, its citizens and residents, and to safeguard Kuwait’s sovereignty, security and stability.

Separately, Kuwait’s Ministry of Health confirmed that an 11-year-old girl died after being critically injured by falling debris in a residential area of the capital.

The ministry said the girl, a resident of the country, was taken to hospital where medical teams attempted to resuscitate her, but she later succumbed to her injuries.

Four members of her family, including her mother, were also injured in the incident and are currently receiving treatment and undergoing medical evaluation, the ministry said.

The Ministry of Defense of Saudi Arabia confirmed that its defence forces successfully intercepted and destroyed two cruise missiles over the Al-Khurj area.

The announcement was made by the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence.

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi has temporarily suspended all in-person consular services effective immediately, until further notice.

The move follows advisories from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation recommending remote work for the private sector and discouraging workers from remaining in open areas. The Embassy said the suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both community members and Embassy staff.

Updates on the resumption of services will be shared through the Embassy’s official channels. Pakistani nationals are urged to follow local authority instructions and stay informed via official announcements.

For emergency assistance, the Embassy can be contacted at:

Landline: +971 2 4447800

Mobile: +971 50 121 0260

WhatsApp: +971 50 124 8934

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the resumption of limited flights at UAE airports to help stranded passengers affected by recent regional developments depart safely. Air operations currently run at 48 flights per hour through designated emergency corridors. Since 1 March 2026, 17,498 passengers have been transported on 60 national carrier flights, with the next phase set to operate 80 daily flights, carrying over 27,000 passengers. 

Click here for the latest UAE airline updates for Wednesday.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India, has established a Special Control Room in view of the ongoing situation in West Asia and the Gulf region. The facility will operate daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and can be contacted at:

• Toll-free: 1800 118 797

• Landlines: +91 11 2301 2113 / +91 11 2301 4104 / +91 11 2301 7905

Emergency contact numbers for Indian embassies in the region:

• Bahrain: +973 3941 8071

• Iran: +98 912 8109115 / +98 912 8109102 / +98 912 8109109 / +98 993 2179359

• Iraq: +964 771 651 1185 / +964 770 444 4899

• Israel: +972 54 7520711 / +972 54 2428378

• Jordan: +962 770 422 276

• Kuwait: +965 6550 1946

• Lebanon: +961 76860128

• Oman: +968 98282270 (WhatsApp) / 80071234 (Toll free)

• Qatar: +974 5564 7502

• Palestine (Ramallah): +970 592916418

• Saudi Arabia (Riyadh): +966 11 4884697 / 800 247 1234 (Toll free)

• Saudi Arabia (Jeddah): +966 12 6648660 / +966 12 2614093

• UAE: +971 543090571 (WhatsApp) / 800 46342 (Toll free)

The MEA urged Indian citizens in the region to use these contacts for assistance and to stay updated via official channels.

An 11-year-old girl from a resident family in Kuwait succumbed to a shrapnel wound in the Capital Governorate, the Ministry of Health said early Wednesday.

The victim received first aid before being rushed by ambulance to the casualty ward of Amir Hospital, where she was pronounced dead about 30 minutes later, Minister of Health Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad stated in a press release.

Four members of the girl’s family are currently under medical observation at the hospital.

Qatar’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that two ballistic missiles were launched at the country from Iran, state news agency QNA reported. Air defense systems intercepted one missile, while the second struck Al-Udeid Base without causing any casualties.

The Ministry emphasized that Qatar Armed Forces have full capability to protect the country’s sovereignty and respond to any external threat. Citizens, residents, and visitors are urged to follow official security guidance, avoid spreading rumours, and rely only on verified information.

Asian shares tumbled Wednesday, with South Korea’s benchmark plunging as much as 11%, while oil prices climbed even higher.

Worries over the widening conflict with Iran have hammered most world markets.

In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 shed 3.4% to 54,346.73.

Japan, like South Korea, depends heavily on imports of oil and natural gas from the Middle East that are now stranded in the Persian Gulf.

The price of US benchmark crude oil climbed 1.2% to $75.46 per barrel. Brent crude, the international standard, gained 1.5% to $82.61 per barrel.

Higher oil prices and how much they might worsen inflation are spooking investors worried that more spikes for oil prices may grind down the global economy and sap corporate profits.

The US State Department has allowed non-emergency American government employees and their family members to leave Saudi Arabia if they wish, amid ongoing hostilities in the region. The move follows attacks on the U.S. Embassy and heightened risks from missile and drone strikes linked to the conflict with Iran.

The department cited safety concerns and noted that US government support for citizens in affected areas is limited. Travel restrictions remain in place near the Yemen border and in Qatif, and residents are urged to follow local safety instructions.

Americans in Saudi Arabia are advised to stay informed through official embassy channels, enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), monitor local media, and maintain an emergency exit plan. The State Department also reminded travelers to comply with local laws, avoid risky areas, and exercise caution with social media and personal documentation.

Additional guidance includes reviewing medical requirements, securing travel insurance, and preparing for potential evacuation independently of US government assistance.

India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation is closely monitoring the evolving airspace situation in West Asia. So far, 1,221 flights by Indian carriers and 388 by foreign airlines have been cancelled due to ongoing disruptions.

Special arrangements are in place to support stranded passengers, with additional flights deployed where needed and coordination with foreign aviation authorities and Indian missions abroad.

Indian carriers are gradually resuming long-haul operations via alternative routes that avoid restricted airspace. Passengers are advised to check flight status directly with their airlines and rely on official sources for updates.

The official spokesman for the Ministry of Defense confirmed the interception and destruction of an unmanned aerial vehicle in the eastern region, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

No casualties or damages were reported. Authorities continue to monitor airspace for potential threats.

Missiles launched from Iran early Wednesday triggered air raid sirens across large parts of Israel, with the military saying it was "operating to intercept the threat".

The order to seek shelter covered Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and other areas across the country.

It was lifted after several minutes, with no immediate reports of any direct impact.

Israel's emergency medical service Magen David Adom said it had received no reports of casualties.

Israel’s transport minister said the country will gradually reopen its airspace overnight between Wednesday and Thursday, after it was closed to civilian flights as the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran.

The initial approved flights will be to repatriate Israelis, a transport ministry spokesperson told AFP, adding that there will be no departures for now.

“The airspace will reopen gradually starting already on the night between Wednesday and Thursday, and of course subject to security developments,” Miri Regev said during a press conference at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport.

The reopening had initially been scheduled for next week but was moved up “following security assessments with professional and security experts,” Regev said.

Sharon Kedmi, director general of the Israel Airports Authority, told reporters the re-opening will begin “very cautiously, with one aircraft per hour during the first 24 hours — a narrow-body aircraft.”

“After 24 hours, if everything works as planned, we will increase to two narrow-body aircraft per hour or one wide-body aircraft,” he added.

Lebanese state media said that four people were killed and six more were wounded in an Israeli strike on a building in Baalbek in eastern Lebanon on Wednesday.

"The initial toll is four killed and six wounded, and work is underway to rescue families from under the rubble," Lebanon's state-run National News Agency said.

France is deploying its flagship aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, along with 20 Rafale jets, two Hawkeye radar planes, and escort frigates to the eastern Mediterranean in response to the escalating Middle East conflict, President Emmanuel Macron announced. The move comes after Iranian drones struck the British RAF base at Akrotiri in Cyprus.

Additional French air defence units and the frigate Languedoc have been sent to protect French assets and secure key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal, and Red Sea, crucial for global oil and LNG shipments. France has also downed drones in “self-defence” to protect allied airspace.

Macron condemned the US and Israeli strikes on Iran but held Tehran primarily responsible for the regional escalation, citing its nuclear programme and support for proxies. French forces in the UAE, including Rafale jets, tanks, and artillery, remain on high alert to safeguard bases and personnel.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Wednesday they control the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and gas, and any vessels seeking to pass through the waterway risk damage from missiles or stray drones.

"Currently, the Strait of Hormuz is under the complete control of the Islamic Republic's Navy," said Guards Navy official Mohammad Akbarzadeh in a statement issued on Fars news agency.

US President Donald Trump said Tuesday the US Navy was ready to escort oil tankers through the crucial Gulf shipping route.

The US military has identified four of the first American soldiers killed in the ongoing conflict with Iran, as the Trump administration warned that the intensifying war could lead to additional US casualties.

The four soldiers, all part of an Iowa unit of the US Army Reserve, were among six US military personnel who have died so far. They were killed on Sunday when a drone struck a US military facility in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, the military confirmed on Tuesday.

The military identified the four as:

• Captain Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida.

• Sargeant 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska

• Sargeant 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota

• Sargeant Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa

A drone was shot down on Wednesday near Baghdad's international airport, a day after a similar attack on the facility, two security sources told AFP.

"A drone was downed near Baghdad airport, with no casualties or material damage reported," an Iraqi security source said. Another security source in Baghdad confirmed the incident.

The airport includes a military base that hosts a US diplomatic facility and previously housed US-led coalition troops.

The United States has directed non-emergency personnel to evacuate its consulates in Karachi and Lahore, citing heightened security risks across Pakistan, including terrorism and kidnapping threats.

The advisory specifically warns against travel to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the Line of Control in Kashmir, where active militant groups regularly target civilians, government staff, and security forces. Assassinations and kidnappings have been reported, with attacks on polio teams and police and military personnel.

U.S. citizens planning travel to Pakistan are urged to:

• Avoid high-risk areas entirely, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Line of Control.

• Monitor local media and stay alert in public spaces, markets, hotels, and government or military locations.

• Vary travel routes and timings and avoid public demonstrations or crowds.

• Keep travel documents accessible and enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for emergency updates.

• Have a communication plan with family, employers, or hosts, and review emergency evacuation procedures.

• Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering evacuation and medical emergencies.

The U.S. State Department emphasises reliance on official sources for updates and urges travellers to adjust plans in response to security developments.

The Emirates Drug Establishment on Wednesday announced that the UAE’s pharmaceutical stockpile is secure and sufficient.

Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, Minister of State and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Drug Establishment, affirmed that the pharmaceutical sector in the UAE is operating with a high degree of stability and preparedness, stressing that the country’s strategic stockpile of medicines and medical supplies is secure and sufficient to meet the needs of the local market.

Al Hajeri said the UAE has adopted best-in-class policies and strategies to maintain a strategic reserve that ensures the availability of all essential medicines required by citizens, residents and visitors in adequate quantities and for extended periods.

Dubai: All Emaar communities, malls, hospitality assets and development projects continue to operate normally despite rising geopolitical tensions in the region, the developer said.

"The city continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by effective leadership, sound regulation, and a dynamic business environment. Our focus remains on disciplined execution, operational excellence, and delivering sustainable value for our shareholders and customers," said company’s founder Mohamed Alabbar.

The reassurance comes at a time of heightened uncertainty across the Middle East following the outbreak of military conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran since Saturday.

Global Village will remain closed on Wednesday, March 4, as regional tensions continue to escalate. In a statement, Global Village said the closure is a precautionary safety measure taken in line with official guidance. Visitors have been advised to check the attraction’s official website and social media channels for updates on reopening.

UAE banks are assuring customers that all banking services are operating normally. The Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD) said all branches, digital platforms and banking systems remain fully operational with no disruption. The bank managed 2.7 million customer interactions and said strong liquidity, capital buffers and business continuity frameworks support uninterrupted services.

“All banking services, systems, digital platforms, and customer engagement channels remain fully operational, with no disruption to branch, digital, or remote banking services. These uninterrupted operations are supported by robust business continuity frameworks, strong liquidity buffers, and prudent risk management practices,” said Commercial Bank of Dubai.

Iran will hold a three-day state funeral for supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes, official news agency Irna said.

"Starting at 10:00 pm (1830 GMT), the faithful will be able to pay a final homage to the body of the martyred guide of the nation, by visiting the Imam Khomenei grand mosque" in Tehran, Irna said, citing a statement from the Islamic Development Coordination Council.

Khamenei was 86 years old when he was killed, and will be buried in his home city of Mashhad in northeastern Iran.

UAE telecom services remain fully operational, with no disruption across mobile, fixed and enterprise networks.

Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company PJSC (du) said its network infrastructure, core systems and customer channels are operating normally.

du provides connectivity infrastructure to users in the UAE. du has 9.7 million mobile subscribers and 735,000 fixed customers.

Qatar Airways has announced that it will continue temporarily suspending flights due to the ongoing closure of the country’s airspace. The airline cited safety considerations and ongoing regional developments as the reason for maintaining the suspension until further notice.

Gulf Navigation Holding confirmed that its operations continue normally despite rising regional tensions. The Dubai-listed company said its petroleum products and crude oil storage facilities in Fujairah are running at full capacity, providing storage, handling and logistics services according to plan.

The company also said all vessels in its fleet, including oil and petrochemical tankers, are continuing scheduled commercial voyages through approved maritime routes and outside designated high-risk areas.

The update comes a day after a fire broke out in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone when debris from an intercepted drone fell into the area. Authorities said the fire was quickly contained and no injuries were reported. Gulf Navigation said it does not expect any material impact on its financial results from the current developments.

Dubai Police has reminded residents that 'responsibility begins with compliance,' warning against photographing or sharing images of security and critical infrastructure sites.

In a post on X, the force said what may appear to be 'just a photo' could amount to sensitive information. Authorities stressed that protecting such locations is a national responsibility that helps keep the community safe and secure.

All terminals at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai are operating normally. "We continue to monitor developments closely and remain in close coordination with the relevant authorities," DP World said in a statement on Wednesday. Enhanced safety and security measures remain in place across the port. "The safety and wellbeing of our people, customers and partners remain our top priority," it added.

Jebel Ali Port is the largest port in the Middle East, serving as a critical gateway for trade across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas. It’s four terminals handle over 15 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) a year of container cargo, along with significant volumes of bulk, breakbulk and Ro-Ro cargo.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday he believed that Israeli-US strikes on Iran were not consistent with international law.

"It would appear, prima facie, not to be consistent or to be inconsistent with international law," Carney told a gathering at the Lowy Institute in Sydney.

The Israeli military said it had begun a fresh wave of strikes on Tehran on Wednesday, as an AFP journalist reported an explosion in the northeast of the Iranian capital.

"The Israeli Air Force has begun a broad scale strikes targeting Iranian terror regime targets in Tehran, details to follow," a brief army statement said.

The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General in Dubai are closed, and services cannot be provided in those facilities until further notice, the US Embassy announced on Wednesday

Iran has no intention of negotiating with the United States and can continue the Middle East war for as long as needed, Mohammad Mokhber, a senior aide to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told state TV.

He told the broadcaster that Iran had "no trust in the Americans and we have no basis for any negotiations with them", adding that: "We can continue the war as long as we want."

Fujairah International Airport, in partnership with Oman’s SalamAir, will operate a series of charter flights on Wednesday, March 4, and Thursday, March 5.

The flights aim to assist UAE residents returning from Muscat to Fujairah and also support travellers heading from Fujairah to Muscat to connect to international destinations. Passengers flying from Fujairah to Muscat can reach major cities including Calicut, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Istanbul, Cairo, and Karachi.

Flight schedule for 4th and 5th March 2026:

• Muscat to Fujairah (Flight OV1071): Departure 07:20, Arrival 08:15

• Fujairah to Muscat (Flight OV1071): Departure 08:45, Arrival 09:40

Reservations are available via SalamAir’s official website or through authorised travel agents.

Kuwait's General Staff of the Army announces that the armed forces are currently confronting a wave of missiles and drones detected in the country's airspace

Air Arabia has announced that flights to and from the UAE remain temporarily suspended until 3pm (UAE time) on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The airline said a limited number of services are continuing to operate in coordination with relevant authorities and remain subject to operational and safety approvals. Passengers booked on those flights will be contacted directly.

All other travellers are advised not to proceed to the airport unless they receive direct communication from the airline.

The Iranian judiciary said Wednesday that those who aid the country's enemies "will be dealt with decisively and severely" during the Middle East war sparked by joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

"Given that we are in a state of war, individuals who act in any way, in word or deed, in line with the illegitimate desires and interests of the aggressor enemy, will be dealt with decisively and severely in accordance with existing laws and regulations," judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei was quoted as saying by the judiciary's Mizan online news portal.

The Israeli military said Wednesday that Iran still has significant capacity to launch missiles at Israel, even as it continues to strike missile launchers in the Islamic republic.

"We have destroyed dozens of missile launchers that posed significant threats to the Israeli front," military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said in a televised briefing. "We will continue to strike the missile launchers and reduce the firing, but the regime still has significant capacity, and I would like to remind you that our defence is not impenetrable."

In a separate statement, the military said it had struck overnight a facility "for the storage, production, and launch of ballistic missiles - including Ghadr missiles - in Isfahan in western Iran."

The Saudi Ministry of Defense confirmed an attempted drone strike on the Ras Tanura oil refinery, with initial assessments showing no damage, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and assured the public that all safety and operational measures remain fully in place.

Hezbollah said on Wednesday it had targeted the headquarters of Israel Aerospace Industries, in central Israel, overnight with a drone attack while also saying it launched a missile at a drone control base.

In a statement the pro-Iran group said it had "struck the headquarters of the Israeli Aerospace Industries (IAI) company in central occupied Palestine with a swarm of attack drones" at 2:00 am (0000GMT) on Wednesday, "in response to the criminal Israeli aggression that targeted dozens of Lebanese cities and towns".

In a separate statement Hezbollah said it had struck a "drone control base" in northern Israel with a "precision-guided missile" shortly before dawn.

Qatar’s security authorities have apprehended two cells linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported, in a move to safeguard national security and stability.

Precision monitoring and tracking led to the arrest of 10 suspects: seven assigned to espionage targeting vital and military infrastructure, and three trained in sabotage operations using drones. Authorities seized locations of sensitive sites, communication devices, and technological equipment during the operation.

Investigations revealed the suspects’ direct links to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, confirming their involvement in espionage and subversion missions.'

The General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force announced that its air defence systems have destroyed 74 missiles and 95 hostile drones since the onset of Iran’s attacks against the kingdom, state news agency BNA reported.

All defence systems remain at maximum readiness to counter further threats. Specialist teams are actively securing affected sites to ensure the safety of citizens and residents. Authorities have urged the public to stay indoors, follow official guidance, and avoid sharing rumours or filming military operations.

The Defence Force condemned the attacks as indiscriminate and disproportionate, breaching international humanitarian law, and reaffirmed Bahrain’s right to take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty and security.

Lebanese state media reported on Wednesday that the Israeli army entered the southern Lebanese town of Khiam, about six kilometres from the Lebanon-Israel border.

"The town of Khiam is witnessing continuous artillery shelling, while the Israeli enemy army penetrated into the town," state media said.

A Lebanese military source told AFP on Tuesday that Israel had launched a ground incursion into a border area in southern Lebanon, in parallel with its campaign of airstrikes.

The General Command of the Bahrain Defense Force announced Wednesday the destruction of 74 missiles and 95 hostile drones since the start of the Iranian aggression against the country.

In a statement, the General Command said that all its air defence systems are on high alert to ensure an immediate and decisive response to the missiles and drones of the ongoing and unjustified Iranian aggression against the country.

The General Command indicated that specialised field teams are working to secure the attack sites with maximum speed to ensure everyone's safety, and that air defense systems are on high alert and fully prepared.

Kuwait's Armed Forces said they are responding to a wave of missiles and drones detected in the country's airspace and are carrying out operations to intercept them.

In a statement posted on the X platform, the Kuwaiti General Staff said the armed forces are currently dealing with a wave of missiles and drones that were detected in the airspace of the State of Kuwait, and are taking the necessary measures to confront and intercept the threats.

The General Staff affirmed its complete readiness to address ant threat in order to safeguard the country's territory and airspace and ensure the safety of Kuwaiti citizens and residents.

The UAE Ministry of Defence reported that air defence systems intercepted three ballistic missiles and 121 drones on Wednesday, with eight drones falling within the country's territory. Since the start of Iranian attacks, the UAE has detected 189 ballistic missiles (175 destroyed, 13 fell into the sea, one landed on UAE soil), 941 drones (876 intercepted, 65 fell within the UAE), and eight cruise missiles, all destroyed.

The attacks resulted in three deaths Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals and 78 minor injuries across multiple nationalities. The ministry condemned the strikes as a blatant act of aggression and a violation of international law, asserting the UAE's full right to respond and reaffirming its commitment to protecting citizens, residents, and national sovereignty.

Iran said on Wednesday it was trying to swiftly appoint a new supreme leader after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes on the weekend.

"We are all trying," said Ahmad Khatami, a member of the Assembly of Experts for Leadership which is responsible for selecting a new leader.

"God willing, the leader will be appointed at the earliest opportunity. We are close, but the situation is a war situation," he told state TV.

The Federal National Council strongly condemned Iran's attacks on the UAE, GCC states, and Jordan, calling them a flagrant violation of sovereignty and international law. It expressed full solidarity with targeted nations, affirmed that GCC security is indivisible, and backed all measures taken to defend the UAE.

The FNC praised the professionalism of the national defence system, the resilience of citizens and residents, and the continuity of economic activity, stressing that the attacks will not shake the country's stability or investor confidence. It concluded that while the UAE calls for de-escalation and dialogue, it will not tolerate any infringement on its sovereignty.

Iran announced that a state funeral for supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which had been planned for Wednesday evening in Tehran, was postponed "in anticipation of unprecedented turnout," state television reported.

"The farewell ceremony for the martyred Imam has been postponed. The new date will be announced later," Iranian television reported on Wednesday after Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes over the weekend.

All Emirates flights to and from Dubai remain suspended until 2359hrs UAE time on 7 March due to regional airspace closures. A limited number of flights are operating, with priority given to customers with earlier bookings. Transit passengers will only be accepted if their connecting flight is confirmed. Passengers are advised not to proceed to the airport unless directly notified by Emirates or holding a confirmed booking on an operating flight.

Sri Lanka's navy has recovered "a few bodies" of Iranian sailors on board a frigate that sank off the island's southern coast after what crew members reported as an explosion, a spokesman said Wednesday.

Sri Lanka's navy rescued 32 sailors from the frigate IRIS Dena but hopes were fading for 148 other sailors, the island's Foreign minister and defence officials said.

The source was unclear of the reported explosion involving the frigate, which was travelling after reportedly attending a military exercise in India's eastern port of Viskhapatnam.

Bahrain said on Wednesday that residents could register as volunteers to aid war efforts in sectors including health, engineering, logistics and administration, as Iran pressed on with its Gulf retaliation campaign.

"Those wishing to volunteer can register for the "Bahrain is Safe... As Long as You Are Its People" campaign through the National Volunteer Platform, volunteer.gov.bh," the statement published on the Bahrain News Agency said.

“A ballistic munition, fired from Iran and detected heading towards Turkish airspace after passing through Iraqi and Syrian airspace, was neutralized in a timely manner by Nato air and missile defense elements deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean,” the Defense Ministry in Ankara said in a statement.

Pieces of interceptor missiles fell in Dortyol in south-eastern Turkey’s Hatay province, the ministry confirmed. There were no casualties or injuries. Turkey, a Nato member, has so far avoided retaliatory strikes from Iran that have hit Gulf countries, and targeting a member of the military alliance is an escalation of an already region wide conflict.

“All necessary steps to defend our lands and airspace will be taken without hesitation,” presidential communications chief Burhanettin Duran said in a separate statement

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Energy said the Ras Tanura refinery was targeted in an attempted drone attack on Wednesday morning, adding that no damage was reported and supplies were not disrupted.

Ministry of Defence Spokesperson Major General Turki Al-Maliki stated that an attempted attack targeted the Ras Tanura refinery, and preliminary assessments indicate the attack was carried out by a drone, resulting in no damage, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Explosions sounded in Tehran Wednesday as Iran's war with the US and Israel entered a fifth day following earlier strikes on an Iranian nuclear site and retaliatory strikes by the Islamic Republic across the Gulf.

The explosions around Tehran came at dawn, according to Iran state television, while Israel's military said its air defenses had been activated to intercept incoming Iranian missiles and explosions were heard around Jerusalem.

Five days into a war that US President Donald Trump suggested could last a month or longer, nearly 800 people have been killed in Iran, including some Trump said he had considered as possible future leaders of the country.

Explosions also hit Lebanon, where Israel said it is retaliating against Hezbollah militants. Lebanon's state-run media reported that at least four people were killed in an Israeli strike that hit a residential complex in the city of Baalbeck.

A container ship was struck off the coast of Oman while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, a British maritime security agency reported, as Iran presses its retaliation campaign in the Gulf.

The ship was two nautical miles north of Oman, "transiting eastbound in the Straits of Hormuz" when it was "hit by an unknown projectile just above the water line causing a fire in the engine room," according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

It was the fourth reported attack in regional waters within 24 hours, after projectiles struck on or near three other vessels off the Emirati and Omani coasts.

Kuwait Airways: Citizens wishing to return to Kuwait and holding prior bookings will be transported to Jeddah, where they will complete the remainder of their journey to Kuwait by land.

Iran's official IRNA news agency said Wednesday that US-Israeli strikes have killed more than 1,000 people nationwide since Saturday. "During the military aggression... 1,045 of our dear military personnel and civilians" were killed, IRNA said, citing a statement from Iran's Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs.

The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research on Wednesday announced that spring break will begin for schools and universities from Monday, March 9, until Sunday, March 22.

The break applies to all students and academic and administrative staff across public and private schools as well as universities. Classes and official working hours will resume on Monday, March 23.

This follows the approval of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council (EHCD).

Dubai and Abu Dhabi stock markets fell sharply when trading resumed after a two day precautionary suspension, with investors adjusting positions following regional geopolitical developments. The Dubai Financial Market General Index dropped about 4.7% to nearly 5%, marking its steepest single day decline in almost two years, while the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange slipped between roughly 2.9% and 3.6%. Analysts said the move reflected delayed price discovery rather than panic selling, as investors digested several days of global and regional news at once. Banks, real estate and aviation stocks led the pullback, though market experts said the broader economic outlook remains supported by strong corporate fundamentals, rising oil prices and continued expansion in the UAE’s non oil economy.

A US submarine torpedoed and sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Wednesday.

"An American submarine sunk an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters. Instead, it was sunk by a torpedo," Hegseth told reporters.

Nearly 150 were missing and several dead after the frigate IRIS Dena sank Wednesday off Sri Lanka, officials said.

A top Vatican official warned Wednesday against the "erosion of international law" and the concept of a "preventive war" on Iran in comments that appeared critical of US-Israeli military action.

"This erosion of international law is truly worrying: justice has given way to force," Pietro Parolin, Pope Leo XIV's number two as Secretary of State, said in an interview published on the official Vatican News outlet.

"If states were to be recognised as having a right to preventive war.... the whole world would risk being set ablaze," he said.

The US and Israel have justified military action as a way of destroying the potential missile and nuclear threat from Iran.

"A multipolarism marked by the primacy of power... is dangerously taking hold," Parolin added.

Asked about his view on US-Israeli action, he called for "diplomacy exercised within multilateral bodies, where states have the possibility of resolving conflicts in a bloodless and more just way".

UAE passengers stranded abroad have begun returning home, according to UAE travel agents. To meet overwhelming demand for travel, agents said they have begun arranging charter services with UAE and regional airlines.

While most demand is for outbound travel, especially from tourists, UAE residents stranded abroad have also begun trickling back home, they said.

Travel agents in the UAE said residents and citizens have started returning in steady numbers via Oman and on special direct flights launched on March 2.

QatarEnergy announced on Wednesday that it has declared force majeure to affected buyers following its earlier decision to halt production of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and associated products.

In a statement carried by Qatar News Agency (QNA), QatarEnergy said it values its relationships with all stakeholders and will continue to provide updates as further information becomes available.

Saudia Airlines extends the suspension of its flights to Amman, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Moscow, and Peshawar until March 6.

The Royal Navy of Oman has responded to a distress notification regarding a cargo vessel, flagged to the State of Malta, which was struck by two missiles in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz.

The ship's crew of 24 personnel has been rescued and provided with requisite medical attention; all are reported to be in good health.

The Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) on Wednesday announced that the spring break for all students, teaching, and administrative staff in all educational institutions in Sharjah will commence on Monday, March 9, 2026, and continue until Sunday, March 22, 2026.

“Classes and regular schedules will resume on Monday, 23, March 2026,” the authority said in a circular to schools.

The decision comes after the approval by the Education and Human Resources Council. It is also in line with the announcement of an early spring break for all students in the country by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

A US submarine sank an Iranian warship off the coast of Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka's navy said Wednesday it recovered 87 bodies and rescued 32 people.

The Iranian vessel that was sunk in the Indian Ocean was the Islamic Republic's "prize ship," US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a Pentagon news briefing. Hegseth said it was the first sinking of an enemy ship with a torpedo by the U.S. since World War II.

Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath told Parliament that its navy received information that the IRIS Dena, with 180 people on board, was in distress and sinking. The island nation sent ships and air force planes on a rescue mission, he said.

Navy spokesman Commander Buddhika Sampath said by the time navy ships reached the location, there was no sign of the ship and "there were only some oil patches and life rafts. We found people floating on the water."

He said the 32 people rescued were admitted to a hospital in the seaside town of Galle on the Sri Lanka's southern coast. The bodies recovered were being brought to land, he said.

Kuwait's Ministry of Interior announces automatic extension of visit visas for one month, granting an additional three-month absence permit for residents currently outside the country.

US forces killed the leader of an Iranian unit that tried to assassinate President Donald Trump, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said on Wednesday.

"Iran tried to kill President Trump, and President Trump got the last laugh," Hegseth told a news conference at the Pentagon.

He said the United States has known "for a long time that Iran had intentions on trying to kill President Trump and or other US officials."

Targeting those behind that effort was not the main focus of US operations, and Trump never raised the issue, Hegseth said after reports that the assassination risk was one factor in the president's decision to launch the war.

Turkey on Wednesday summoned Iranian ambassador after a ballistic missile launched from Iran headed toward its airspace, a diplomatic source said.

"The Iranian ambassador was summoned to the foreign ministry, and we conveyed our reaction and concerns over the incident," the source said.

Turkish officials said the missile was destroyed by NATO air-defence systems.

Shipping Giant Maersk has announced the temporary suspension of most cargo bookings to and from several Gulf and Middle Eastern countries, citing the evolving security situation in the region.

The Danish shipping group said the measure affects shipments linked to the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The suspension will remain in place until further notice as the company continues to assess operational conditions.

Maersk said the decision was taken as a precautionary step to manage risks and ensure the safety of its operations, personnel and cargo flows. The company added that it is closely monitoring developments and will review the restrictions as the regional situation evolves.

The Israeli military said on Wednesday that it detected new missiles launched from Iran.

"A short while ago, the IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel", the military said in a statement, adding aerial defence was working to intercept them.

The US Department of State has urged American citizens in Iraq to leave the country immediately amid rising regional tensions and growing security risks.

In a security advisory, the department advised US nationals to depart using available commercial flights while they remain operational. The warning follows heightened instability across parts of the Middle East and concerns that the situation could deteriorate rapidly.

Officials said the advisory reflects ongoing assessments of potential threats to American citizens in the region. The State Department also urged those unable to leave immediately to exercise heightened caution, limit movements, and closely monitor official updates from US diplomatic missions.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security has decided to exempt individuals who were unable to travel from fines for delayed departures due to exceptional circumstances currently affecting the region, which led to the closure of airspace and the temporary suspension of a number of flights.

The authority explained that the decision applies to all cases in which the person was unable to leave the country, including visitors holding visit visas, tourist visas, or exit permits, as well as residents who had cancelled their residency permits in preparation for departure.

Iraq's electricity ministry said on Wednesday that the entire country had been affected by a total power outage, without identifying the cause.

"The power grid has completely shut down across all Iraqi provinces," the ministry said, according to the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

It added that it was looking to determine the cause of the blackout, and had begun restoring power stations and transmission lines. Parts of the country have come under repeated attack since the war between Israel, the US and Iran broke out.

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Two drones were shot down on Wednesday evening near Baghdad's international airport, hours after a similar attack on the facility, two security sources told AFP.

"Two drones were downed near Baghdad airport, with no casualties or material damage reported," an Iraqi security source said. Another security source in Baghdad confirmed the incident.

The airport includes a military base that hosts a US diplomatic facility and previously housed US-led coalition troops.

Dubai Media Office has addressed the sounds you might have heard across the emirate.

"Sounds heard in various areas across the emirate were the result of successful air defence interception operations, with no injuries reported."

It added that the relevant teams continue to closely monitor developments and are taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety of everyone. The public is advised to rely exclusively on official sources for accurate updates.

Spain has agreed to "cooperate" with the US military in its war on Iran, the White House said Wednesday, after Madrid had refused to let American warplanes use its bases for the operation.

"It's my understanding, over the past several hours, they've agreed to cooperate with the US military," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said of Spain, without providing details on what the cooperation would entail.

The Spanish foreign minister on Wednesday denied that Madrid had dropped its opposition to Washington's use of its bases against Iran, after the White House said Spain agreed to "cooperate with the US military".

"I categorically deny any change... our position on the use of the bases, on the war in the Middle East, on the bombardment of Iran, has not changed at all," Jose Manuel Albares told Cadena SER radio.

As the campaign enters its fifth day, US Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine announced an expansion of strikes, stating the US “will now begin to expand inland, striking progressively deeper into Iranian territory.”

Turkey on Wednesday warned Iran against actions that could widen the regional war after a missile launched from Iranian territory towards Turkish airspace was intercepted by Nato defence systems.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority called on members of the public to adhere to official instructions when hearing early-warning messages.

UAE authorities stressed that the purpose of these messages is to protect public safety and ensure the community’s readiness to face risks.

Republican senators on Wednesday voted down a war-powers resolution that would have required President Donald Trump to obtain congressional approval before ordering future US military action against Iran, with the measure failing 47–53 along party lines.

The bipartisan proposal aimed to rein in the president’s authority and reassert Congress’s constitutional role in authorising sustained hostilities, but most Republicans defended Trump’s actions as within his existing powers.

Iranian intelligence has quietly conveyed to the United States that Tehran may be open to discussions on ending the war, CNN reported quoting sources "familiar with indirect communications".

The messages were reportedly passed through a third country to the Central Intelligence Agency. But US officials say no negotiations are currently underway, and any diplomatic “off-ramps” appear distant at best.

So far, the backchannel has not produced substantive talks on de-escalation.

The Pentagon describes the conflict as entering a more aggressive phase aimed at crippling Iran’s missiles and drones and preventing it from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

During a Wednesday briefing, US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the United States was “just getting started,” after announcing the IRGC'S air force and navy had been "obliterated", signaling that military pressure — not diplomacy — remains the priority.

US lawmakers are pushing for a clear "endgame" strategy, possibly including a concrete diplomatic pathway. What's left of Iranian leaderships have shown little public appetite for talks, even as strikes continue to thin senior ranks and intensify pressure on IRGC's ability to mount counter-attacks.

Bahraini authorities revealed that the country's air defence systems have continued to intercept successive waves of Iranian terrorist aggression.

A General Command of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) statement carried by Bahrain News Agency (BNA), said that since the onset of these attacks, the BDF's air defences have destroyed 74 missiles and 117 drones targeting the Kingdom's airspace, territorial waters, and land.

A tanker was hit by a "large explosion" in the waters off Kuwait, causing an oil spill, British maritime security agency UKMTO said Thursday.

"The Master of a tanker at anchor, reports witnessing and hearing a large explosion on the port side then seeing a small craft leave the vicinity" off the Gulf state's Mubarak Al-Kabeer area, the agency posted on X.

"There is oil in the water coming from a cargo tank which could have some environmental impact".

The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned the attempted targeting of the Republic of Turkey with an Iranian ballistic missile. The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) air defense systems successfully destroyed the missile before it reached Turkish territory. The UAE considers 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 condemned under all legal and political norms, and constitutes a serious escalation that undermines de-escalation efforts and heightens regional tensions.

Iran launched a round of missiles at Israel on Thursday, the Israeli military and Tehran's state media said, triggering alerts in several areas including Tel Aviv, with no immediate reports of casualties.

After a lull of more than seven hours, Israel's military said it had "identified missiles launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel".

"Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat," it added.

Iran's state broadcaster IRIB also reported the launches.

There were no reports of casualties from the missile fire, and the military has cleared Israelis to leave their shelters.

Qatar’s authorities have begun evacuating residents living near the US Embassy in Doha as a temporary precautionary measure, according to the Qatar Ministry of Interior.

The ministry said in a social media statement early on Thursday that the evacuation is being carried out by the relevant authorities as part of measures aimed at safeguarding public safety.

Officials confirmed that suitable accommodation has been arranged for residents affected by the measure as part of the necessary preventive actions.

The ministry also urged the public to rely on official and trusted sources for information and updates.

The UAE’s Ministry of Economy and Tourism has called on the public to report any cases of food price increases or commercial violations, urging consumers to submit complaints through the ministry’s official channels.

The ministry said reports can be filed through the electronic consumer complaints service on its website (https://www.moet.gov.ae/consumer-complaints1), or by contacting the ministry via phone or WhatsApp at 8001222, as well as through email. The move aims to strengthen market monitoring and ensure compliance with consumer protection regulations.

It also reassured the public that the country’s strategic food reserves remain sufficient to meet national needs, adding that essential goods are available in reassuring quantities across all emirates. The ministry confirmed that supply chains continue to operate normally, ensuring stable availability of food products throughout the country.

Dubai Airports has confirmed that most flights are still suspended, urging passengers not to travel to the airport unless their airline has officially confirmed their departure time.

In an update issued by the airport operator, travellers were advised not to come to the airport unless they have received confirmation from their airline, warning that passengers without confirmed departures may not be able to access the terminals.

Dubai Airports said entry to airport halls will be restricted to passengers whose flights have been confirmed by airlines, as part of measures to manage operations and prevent overcrowding at the terminals.

Authorities also urged travellers to contact their airlines directly for the latest updates on flight schedules and departure times, stressing that passengers should verify their travel status before heading to the airport to avoid congestion and disruption.

We are closing coverage for now. Follow our live updates for the latest developments here.