UAE intercepts hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones amid attacks

Since the start of Iran’s assault, the UAE has faced waves of ballistic missiles and drones targeting multiple locations across the country, with air defence systems activated in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Authorities say hundreds of projectiles have been intercepted, though some debris and a limited number of drones have caused casualties and property damage. Officials maintain that the security situation remains under control, with the country on high alert and emergency response teams deployed nationwide.

The Ministry of Defence said the UAE has so far intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 Iranian drones. Of the ballistic missiles launched toward the country, 152 were destroyed while 13 fell into the sea. Both cruise missiles were detected and shot down.

Of the 541 drones identified, 506 were intercepted, while 35 fell within UAE territory, resulting in three fatalities — nationals of Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh — and 58 injuries among residents and expatriates of various nationalities.

On Sunday alone, 20 ballistic missiles were destroyed, eight were downed over the sea, and two cruise missiles and 311 drones were intercepted, although 21 drones struck civilian areas.

Al Salam naval base struck

In the capital, two Iranian drones struck Al Salam naval base, igniting a fire in two containers, the Ministry of Defence said, describing the attack as a “blatant act of aggression”. The UAE affirmed that it reserved its full and legitimate right to respond. No casualties were reported at the base.

Earlier, a woman and her child sustained minor injuries after debris from an intercepted drone fell near Etihad Towers. One of the buildings suffered damage. Authorities said air defence systems had successfully neutralized the drone before debris landed in the area.

Two injured in Dubai

In Dubai, two people were injured after debris from intercepted drones fell near residential properties, according to state news agency Wam. Both received prompt medical treatment. Authorities also confirmed that falling debris sparked a fire at one of the berths at Jebel Ali Port, which was quickly contained by Civil Defence teams without injuries.

Late on Saturday, firefighters extinguished a small blaze on the facade of the Burj Al Arab. No injuries were reported.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said the situation is being monitored around the clock and urged residents to avoid areas where debris or suspicious objects have fallen. The Ministry of Interior said it remains at “the highest level of readiness” and is closely coordinating with relevant authorities.

MoFA condemns strikes 'in strongest terms'

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned “in the strongest terms” the waves of Iranian missiles launched towards the country. These acts represent a flagrant breach of the UAE's sovereignty and are a clear breach of international law, the ministry said.

It added that the UAE fully supports countries in the region affected by attacks. Any infringement on sovereignty constitutes a direct threat to the security and stability of the entire region, it said.

The UAE repeated its call for restraint and a focus on diplomatic solutions, while making clear that it retains its full and legitimate right to respond to these attacks. The UAE will not tolerate any compromise to its security or sovereignty under any circumstances, authorities added.