The United Arab Emirates’ reputation as a safe, sunny, tax-free oasis was shattered on Saturday as UAE missile attacks struck Dubai and Abu Dhabi, killing one person and injuring seven at the airport.
Drones and missiles hit key sites
Iranian weaponry targeted the UAE in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli operations in the region, causing fires at luxury hotels, including the Fairmont on Palm Jumeirah and near the Burj Al Arab, while smoke rose around the Burj Khalifa. Jebel Ali Port and Dubai International Airport were also affected.
Residents and tourists react
Officials assured the public that the UAE’s air defences intercepted hundreds of drones and missiles. Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, said residents should take comfort in the fact that most damage came from debris rather than direct hits.
Tourists described surreal scenes as missiles were intercepted mid-air, with some reconsidering future visits to the region amid heightened tensions.
Impact on UAE’s image
The attacks threaten the UAE’s longstanding image as a safe haven for wealthy expatriates, with nearly 90 per cent of the 11 million residents being foreigners. The Ministry of Defence reported intercepting 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and over 540 drones over two days, but debris caused fires at several iconic sites.
Diplomatic fallout
The UAE responded by closing its embassy in Tehran, signalling heightened caution despite previous efforts to maintain diplomatic engagement with Iran. Analysts warn that the attacks could alter perceptions of safety in one of the Gulf’s most stable and prosperous countries.
Also read: How the conflict with Iran has evolved over the last 4 days
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