This is a developing story. Last updated: 4 March 2026.
The conflict between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other has entered its fifth day. UAE authorities have issued a series of updates covering security, travel, education, financial markets, and public safety.
Here is everything UAE residents need to know right now.
UAE Confirms: Not Participating in the Conflict
The UAE government has reiterated 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.
Despite this neutral position, the Emirates has been subjected to more than 1,000 attacks since the conflict began. UAE armed forces have responded to each, with officials stating they acted “with professionalism, efficiency and distinction.”
The government’s position is grounded in good neighbourliness, de-escalation, and adherence to the United Nations Charter — while affirming the UAE’s right to self-defence under international law.
Authorities have urged media outlets and social media users to rely on official sources and stop circulating unverified information. Under UAE cybercrime law, spreading fabricated or misleading content online carries fines up to Dh500,000 and imprisonment.
Air Defence: Missiles, Drones, and Casualties
UAE air defence systems have remained active throughout the conflict as missile and drone activity continues across the region.
Since hostilities began on 28 February:
Ballistic missiles: 186 detected. 172 destroyed. 13 fell into the sea. 1 landed within UAE territory.
Drones: 812 detected. 755 intercepted. 57 fell within the country.
Cruise missiles: 8 detected and destroyed.
Casualties: Three fatalities confirmed — Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals. 68 minor injuries reported across multiple nationalities.
Property damage: Minor to moderate damage to some civilian facilities.
Authorities confirmed that the loud sounds heard across several emirates are linked to interception operations by air defence systems and fighter jets. These sounds do not indicate strikes on UAE territory — they are the defence systems working.
Dubai Fire Near US Consulate
Dubai authorities confirmed that a limited fire broke out near the United States Consulate in Dubai following a drone-related incident.
Emergency teams quickly extinguished the blaze. No injuries were reported.
Officials reiterated that sounds heard across Dubai on Tuesday were caused by air defence interceptions, not direct attacks.
Schools: Distance Learning Extended Until 6 March
The Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research have announced that distance learning will continue nationwide until Friday, 6 March 2026.
This applies to all public and private schools and universities across the UAE. Officials said they will continue monitoring the situation before deciding on further extensions.
For parents managing remote learning, our Dubai school calendar 2025-2026 provides the full academic year schedule, while the UAE 2025-2026 school calendar covers term dates across all emirates.
Flights: Limited Operations Resume
The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has resumed limited air operations through emergency corridors, currently handling 48 flights per hour.
Since 1 March: 17,498 passengers have departed on 60 national carrier flights. The next phase aims for 80 daily flights, serving more than 27,000 passengers.
Airport Access (Restricted)
Dubai (DXB & DWC): Entry restricted to confirmed passengers only.
Abu Dhabi: Access limited to ticketed travellers.
Sharjah: Operations resumed under a defined schedule.
Fujairah: SalamAir flights operating, including Muscat routes.
Ras Al Khaimah: Limited operations.
Airline Suspension Status (as of 4 March)
Emirates: Suspended until 11:59 PM, 4 March. Limited repatriation and cargo flights operating.
Etihad Airways: Suspended until 2 PM, 5 March.
Air Arabia: Suspended until 3 PM, 4 March.
All carriers have relaxed rebooking and refund policies. If your flight has been cancelled, you are entitled to free rebooking or a full refund — here’s how UAE flight cancellation rights work during conflicts.
Stranded Indian Passengers
Alternative routes are being coordinated for stranded Indian passengers in the UAE. Travellers should contact their airline or embassy directly for the latest options.
Etihad Rail Supporting Stranded Travellers
In coordination with Abu Dhabi’s emergency authorities, Etihad Rail has transported more than 350 passengers between Al Ghuwaifat and Abu Dhabi, maintaining travel continuity after flight suspensions. The operation was carried out with coordination from Saudi authorities.
Nasdaq Dubai Reopens
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) confirmed that Nasdaq Dubai reopened at 10 AM GST on Wednesday, 4 March 2026.
Financial markets are being closely monitored. For residents with investments or financial concerns during this period, staying connected to official DFSA communications is recommended.
Grocery Supplies: Shelves Are Stocked
Retailers confirmed that supermarket shelves remain stocked with months of staple supplies despite regional tensions.
While there was a temporary surge in purchases of water, rice, flour, dairy, and canned goods, officials confirmed:
- Strategic reserves remain strong
- Supply chains are diversified across multiple sources
- Local production strengthens overall resilience
Authorities stressed that short-term empty shelves reflected replenishment timing, not actual shortages. There is no need to panic-buy — supply chains are intact.
For context on how the cost of living in the UAE has been affected by broader economic pressures, our guide covers the key price changes affecting residents.
Filming Ban: Do Not Photograph Sensitive Sites
The UAE State Security Department has issued a clear warning: photographing or sharing images of sensitive security locations is strictly prohibited.
Spreading unverified or fabricated information may result in legal consequences. This includes filming air defence systems, military installations, or damage sites and posting them on social media.
Under UAE social media laws, even sharing such content can lead to prosecution with fines up to Dh500,000.
What to Do When an Emergency Alert Sounds
The Ministry of Interior has reminded all UAE residents:
Go directly to a safe location or remain indoors. Do not go outside to investigate.
Wait for the official “all clear” notification before resuming normal activity.
Do not stop vehicles on highways to film or investigate sounds. This endangers yourself and other drivers.
Prioritise safety over social media content. Filming during an active alert is not worth the legal and physical risk.
Authorities warned that failure to comply could result in legal accountability.
24/7 Mental Health Support in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Health — Abu Dhabi (DoH) has activated a 24-hour mental health hotline:
800-SAKINA (725462)
Operated in collaboration with SEHA’s Sakina network, the bilingual (Arabic and English) service provides psychological first aid and professional support for anxiety, stress, panic attacks, and sleep difficulties.
If you or someone you know is experiencing distress during this period, this service is free and available around the clock. There is no shame in reaching out — these are extraordinary circumstances, and professional support makes a real difference.
Key Takeaway
The US-Israel war on Iran has reached Day 5, with the UAE maintaining its neutral position while actively defending against more than 1,000 attacks. Three fatalities (Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals) and 68 injuries have been confirmed. UAE air defences have intercepted the vast majority of ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles. Schools have shifted to distance learning until 6 March. Flights remain heavily disrupted, with Emirates suspended until late 4 March and Etihad until 5 March — though limited emergency corridor operations are resuming. Nasdaq Dubai has reopened. Grocery supplies are stable. Residents should follow emergency alerts, avoid filming sensitive sites, and call 800-SAKINA for mental health support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UAE at war?
No. The UAE has explicitly stated it is not participating in the conflict and has not allowed its territory or airspace to be used for attacks on Iran. However, the country has been subjected to over 1,000 attacks since hostilities began and is exercising its right to self-defence.
How many people have been killed in the UAE?
As of 4 March 2026, three fatalities have been confirmed — nationals of Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. 68 minor injuries across multiple nationalities have also been reported. Property damage has been described as minor to moderate to some civilian facilities.
Are UAE schools open?
No. Distance learning has been extended nationwide until Friday, 6 March 2026. This applies to all public and private schools and universities. Officials will assess whether to extend this further based on developments.
Can I fly out of the UAE right now?
Limited flights are operating through emergency corridors. The GCAA is managing 48 flights per hour, with 60 national carrier flights having departed since 1 March carrying 17,498 passengers. Emirates, Etihad, and Air Arabia remain suspended with varying resumption timelines. Airport access is restricted to confirmed passengers only.
Are supermarkets running out of supplies?
No. Authorities confirmed that strategic reserves remain strong and supply chains are diversified. Short-term empty shelves reflect replenishment cycles, not actual shortages. There is no need to stockpile.
What should I do when I hear an explosion or siren?
Go to a safe indoor location immediately and wait for the official “all clear” notification. Do not stop your vehicle on highways, do not go outside to film, and do not share unverified content about what you saw or heard. Loud sounds across the emirates are typically air defence interceptions, not direct strikes.
Further Reading
- Iran-Israel Conflict: UAE Flight Cancellation Rights & Rebooking Guide
- Is Dubai Safe to Visit Now? Travel Advisory & Safety Guide
- US Travel Advisory UAE Level 2: Essential Safety Guide
- UAE’s 6 Banned Online Content Types: Dh500,000 Fine and 5-Year Jail Risk
- UAE Social Media Laws 2025: Comments Can Lead to Dh500k Fines
- UAE Cost of Living 2025: 6 Major Price Increases Affecting Residents
- UAE Fights Fake News: 70% More Shares Than Real News
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