The ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel has seen the United Arab Emirates emerge as the focal point of Tehran’s retaliatory strikes.
Recent data indicates that the UAE has received almost half of the missiles and drones launched by Iran since the onset of hostilities, totaling 1,728 attacks, which represent approximately 44 percent of Tehran’s overall offensive efforts. Following the UAE, Kuwait is the second-most affected nation, enduring around 24 percent of the strikes.
Impact on the UAE
Israel accounts for roughly 14 percent of the attacks, while Bahrain and Saudi Arabia face about 9 and 5 percent respectively, as reported by Newsmax.
This surge in attacks can be traced back to coordinated airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iranian positions. Almost immediately after, Iranian forces began their missile campaign, targeting nations that have U.S. military presence or strong alliances with Washington.
The United Arab Emirates, in particular, has suffered greatly, perceived by Tehran as a strategic target due to its defense ties with the U.S. and developing connections with Israel, along with its economic significance in the region.
Major urban areas, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, have been directly impacted, with explosions reported at critical infrastructure hubs.
🚨 BREAKING: The US Consulate in Dubai is ON FIRE after a reported strike on the building
Pray that ZERO Americans were hurt 🙏🏻
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) March 3, 2026
Residential neighborhoods and commercial sectors in Dubai, including areas around Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab hotel, have sustained damage from debris caused by intercepted missiles. Similarly, in Abu Dhabi, remnants of these intercepted projectiles fell near Zayed International Airport, resulting in injuries and property damage.
Iran’s assault has also extended to crucial economic infrastructures, including Dubai International Airport and key shipping lanes. Fortunately, most of the missiles and drones have been intercepted by the advanced air defense systems operated by the UAE and its allies.
However, the barrage has not been without cost. At least six individuals have lost their lives and over 120 have sustained injuries amidst the attacks.
Many injuries stem from shrapnel and debris, mainly affecting foreign workers from countries like Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, who make up a substantial part of the Emirati workforce.
Two drones fell near Dubai’s main airport and Bahrain evacuated some planes, as attacks on infrastructure across the Gulf continued to disrupt air traffic, hampering efforts to restore flights as the Iran War entered a 12th day https://t.co/gvGDGgS7CD pic.twitter.com/HtrLRYKygx
— Reuters (@Reuters) March 11, 2026
In response, authorities have temporarily closed airspace, issued emergency alerts, and advised residents to stay indoors during periods of heightened threat.
Several aspects underscore why the UAE has become Iran’s primary target. The nation is home to American military facilities, including Al Dhafra Air Base, which plays a pivotal role in U.S. operations in the region. Iranian officials have issued threats of retaliation against nations aiding U.S. military efforts.
The UAE also stands as an essential financial and logistics hub, linking Western markets to the Gulf and Asia. Attacks on its infrastructure threaten to disrupt critical trade routes and energy supplies.
Furthermore, Iran has consistently expressed discontent towards the Emirates’ burgeoning ties with Israel, particularly after the Abraham Accords, which established stronger economic and security alliances.
The rising military tensions are also fueling concerns regarding global energy market stability, as actions near the Strait of Hormuz could have ripple effects on oil exports worldwide.
For the time being, the UAE continues to depend on its sophisticated air defense systems and support from allied forces to mitigate these threats. Yet, analysts caution that as long as the current conflict persists, the UAE may remain a primary target for Iran’s retaliation.
