The government of the United Arab Emirates has confirmed that the country has faced over 1,000 attacks, including those launched by Iran amidst regional crises and conflicts. However, authorities state that no decision has yet been made to change its defense policy or security stance in the face of these continuous attacks.
Reportedly, this number of attacks is higher than the total number of attacks faced by all other countries that have been subjected to attacks. Nevertheless, the government points out that the armed forces of the United Arab Emirates have successfully dealt with these situations in a very professional and efficient manner.It is further stated that the United Arab Emirates has not directly intervened in any military situation amidst this conflict-ridden atmosphere. Adhering to its policy of maintaining good neighborly relations and acting in accordance with the United Nations Charter, they have not allowed any party to use their territory, airspace, or maritime boundaries for any attacks against Iran. They continue to uphold this stance for the preservation of regional peace and the de-escalation of crises.
Although 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones were successfully destroyed by the UAE's air defense systems during the first wave of attacks on February 28, falling debris caused several explosions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. One death was also reported that day due to debris falling near hotels in areas like Zayed International Airport and Palm Jumeirah.
By March 1st, these escalating attacks caused severe damage to civilians and infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Fires erupted as debris from attack aircraft fell on luxury hotels like Burj Al Arab and residential homes in Dubai, and by then, three people, including foreigners, had died, and dozens were injured. Subsequently, on March 2nd, a massive attack consisting of 9 more ballistic missiles, 6 cruise missiles, and 148 drones was launched, and debris hitting Dubai International Airport caused injuries to passengers and severely disrupted flights.
According to the latest reports released by the UAE Ministry of Defense, Iran launched between 165 and 186 ballistic missiles, several cruise missiles, and between 541 and 812 drones between February 28 and March 4. Emirati forces have managed to neutralize the majority of these using modern air defense systems like Patriot. However, it has been confirmed that three individuals of Pakistani, Nepali, and Bangladeshi nationality have died and between 58 and 68 others have been injured in these attacks so far. A drone attack on the parking lot of the American Consular Office in Dubai has also been reported, and the United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned this direct impact on its sovereignty.
The United Arab Emirates also strongly emphasizes its full right to exercise self-defense for the security of its nation, as affirmed by international law and the United Nations Charter. Furthermore, the government points out that journalistic professionalism must be upheld when informing the public about the current situation. They urge media organizations to refrain from disseminating baseless false information and to always verify information from official and reliable sources before publishing news.