UAE intercepts new waves of Iranian missiles: All you need to know

The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed that since the start of Iranian attacks on February 28, 2026, the country’s air force and air defence systems have successfully dealt with 165 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 541 drones.

Here’s what you need to know.

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

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

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

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

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

Dubai Airports has confirmed that an incident occurred at Dubai International Airport (DXB) a short while ago, according to Dubai Media Office. Emergency response teams were immediately activated and are dealing with the situation in coordination with the relevant authorities.

The Ministry of Interior sent a broadcast to mobile phones warning of potential missile threats. Residents were instructed to seek immediate shelter in the nearest secure building, avoid windows, doors and open areas, and await further instructions.

The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that all studies will shift to distance learning from Monday, March 2, to Wednesday, March 4. The directive applies to students, as well as teaching and administrative staff, across all public and private schools and universities nationwide.

Dubai authorities confirmed that debris from the attack hit a building in the Palm Jumeirah area. Emergency teams were immediately deployed, and the site has been secured. The Dubai Civil Defence said the resulting fire is now under control. Four individuals sustained injuries and have been transferred to medical facilities.

Authorities urged residents and visitors to remain calm, rely only on official updates, and avoid sharing videos or images on social media. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

The UAE has strongly condemned the recent Iranian missile attacks targeting the country and other nations in the region.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) described the strikes as a blatant violation of national sovereignty and a breach of international law and the UN Charter.

The UAE reaffirmed its full solidarity with affected countries and stressed that any infringement on sovereignty threatens regional security and stability.

The UAE also expressed condolences to the family of the Pakistani national who lost his life, emphasising that targeting civilians and civilian objects is strictly prohibited under international law. Authorities called for restraint and diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed that UAE air defence systems successfully intercepted a new wave of Iranian missiles, preventing damage on Saturday afternoon.

Debris from the intercepted missiles fell in areas across Abu Dhabi, including Saadiyat Island, St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City, Beni Yas, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, and Al Falah, with one civilian fatality reported.

The ministry also published the images of the debris scattered in different locations.

Authorities stressed that the UAE retains the full right to respond to protect its sovereignty, citizens, and national security. All precautionary measures remain in place to ensure stability and safety, authorities added.

The UAE Cyber Security Council has called on residents to depend only on verified information and refrain from sharing rumours or unconfirmed content.

Authorities confirmed that the national cybersecurity system remains fully operational 24/7, ready to counter threats and safeguard the country’s digital infrastructure.

Officials stressed that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and verifying information is a duty for every resident.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) confirmed that the situation is under control, with continuous monitoring and rapid response mechanisms activated. Citizens have been urged to rely only on official sources and avoid circulating unverified information.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid missile debris or suspicious objects and allow official teams to safely manage and dispose of them. The UAE’s integrated emergency management system remains fully operational, ensuring readiness to respond quickly and effectively to any threats.

The UAE continues to prioritise the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors, maintaining national security and stability while coordinating with strategic and international partners. Authorities reiterated that they will continue to provide updates through official channels as the situation evolves.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced a temporary, partial closure of UAE airspace due to heightened security risks.

Dubai Airports confirmed that all flights at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) have been suspended until further notice.

Meanwhile, passengers travelling through Abu Dhabi and Sharjah Airports were informed that some flights may experience delays, diversions, or cancellations.

Various airlines have announced the suspension of flights and urged travellers to check their websites for updates before heading to airports.

The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism confirmed that markets remain resilient, with strategic reserves of essential goods sufficient for domestic needs.

Retail outlets are open, imports and supply chains are uninterrupted, and advanced monitoring ensures price stability.

Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri urged the public to shop responsibly, avoid panic buying, and trust that contingency plans keep supplies continuous.

The Ministry’s price-monitoring system enforces fair pricing, and residents are encouraged to report concerns via official channels to maintain a safe, well-supplied marketplace.