The United Arab Emirates’ air defenses intercepted a large-scale barrage of missiles and drones launched from Iran on March 11, 2026, according to a statement released by the UAE Ministry of Defence. The attack involved six ballistic missiles, seven cruise missiles, and 39 drones.
Since the beginning of what the Ministry termed “brazen Iranian aggression,” UAE air defenses have engaged a total of 268 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,514 drones. The Ministry affirmed its high state of alert and readiness to address any future threats, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s stability and sovereignty.
The attacks have resulted in six fatalities, encompassing Emirati, Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals. A total of 131 individuals sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate, representing a diverse range of nationalities including Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepalese, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, and Indonesian citizens.
The escalating tensions come as Iran continues missile strikes in the region, prompting heightened vigilance from neighboring Gulf states. Air defenses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are actively working to protect citizens, according to reports. Iranian missiles have also been intercepted over Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain, with sirens sounding in those countries, according to Al Jazeera.
The UAE detected 9 missiles and 35 drones in the latest strike, according to IranWire. The attacks have fueled growing anger among Gulf states, as the conflict increasingly impacts their territories, The Arab Weekly reported.
The Ministry of Defence statement concluded by reaffirming its resolve to firmly confront any actions that threaten the UAE’s stability, security, and national interests.
