The government of the United Arab Emirates has called on the United States, Israel and Iran to immediately return to diplomacy, as the conflict spreading across the Middle East entered its fifth consecutive day.
Speaking at a press conference in Abu Dhabi, Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy condemned what she described as “blatant Iranian attacks” against the UAE and other Gulf countries, warning that the situation risks further regional escalation.
She stressed that the UAE does not seek to widen the conflict and reiterated the country’s stance that its territory must not be used for military operations against Iran.
“Returning to the negotiating table is the only rational way forward,” Al Hashimy said, adding that military solutions do not necessarily create stability.
Missile and Drone Debris Presented as Evidence
During the briefing, UAE authorities displayed recovered debris from Iranian missiles and drones, including fragments believed to be from ballistic missiles and suicide drones used in recent attacks.
According to the UAE Ministry of Defence, the country has repelled a large number of incoming projectiles since the weekend escalation began.
Officials reported that a total of 186 missiles and 812 drones were launched toward the UAE, with air defence systems successfully intercepting the majority of them.
Brigadier Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi, spokesperson for the defence ministry, emphasized that the country remains fully prepared to protect itself despite the ongoing escalation.
“The UAE air defence system is very capable of defending the country, and we are very aware of the threats around it,” he said, noting that defensive operations will continue regardless of how long the conflict lasts.
Travel Disruptions and Evacuations from Dubai
As security concerns grow, travel disruptions are intensifying across the region. The UAE—home to one of the world’s busiest international transit hubs—has seen travellers attempting to leave the country through alternative routes.
Many passengers departing from Dubai are now traveling overland to neighboring countries, including Muscat in Oman or Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, before boarding limited commercial or charter flights.
Flight prices have surged sharply since the conflict began, reflecting rising demand and limited availability.
Despite the mounting tensions, UAE officials continue to emphasize diplomacy while maintaining strong defensive readiness as the crisis unfolds across the Middle East.
