Abu Dhabi – The United Arab Emirates is prepared to weather the ongoing barrage of attacks emanating from Iran and remains resolute in opposing what its Minister of State, Lana Nusseibeh, describes as a destabilizing “nihilism” being exported across the region. Nusseibeh’s strong statements, delivered in a recent interview with Euronews, come as tensions in the Gulf continue to escalate, with the UAE having intercepted a significant number of missiles and drones.
Nusseibeh emphasized that the UAE is defending more than just its own territory and citizens, but a broader vision of coexistence, tolerance, and peace for the wider Middle East. This includes a commitment to stabilizing global commodity markets, energy supplies, and overall security. The UAE’s resilience, she asserted, is a direct challenge to Iran’s agenda.
According to Nusseibeh, Iran has launched over 1,800 missiles and drones at the UAE in the last two weeks. Despite this, she stated, “the UAE is not a steady state or a state that we accept for our country, what needs to happen is that Iran needs to desist from its attacks, needs to understand that it cannot behave as a regional bully.” She further stressed the importance of Iran’s isolation on the international stage, although reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to diplomatic solutions.
UAE’s Economic Resilience and Diversification
The UAE’s ability to withstand economic shocks is central to its strategy, Nusseibeh explained. The country’s economy, she said, is “structurally sound and honed over decades,” having successfully diversified away from a sole reliance on hydrocarbons. This diversification includes significant investments in finance, logistics, and advanced technology. “We are an economy of the future,” Nusseibeh stated, “we always adapt in crisis, we respond, we are flexible.”
This adaptability is already evident in the aviation sector, with national airlines Emirates and Etihad having restored up to 50% of normal operations despite the ongoing attacks. While some travelers initially departed, Nusseibeh noted that many have chosen to remain, demonstrating confidence in the UAE’s stability. The UAE plays a critical role in global aviation and logistics, serving as a key gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Impact on Global Energy Markets and Regional Security
Nusseibeh addressed concerns about the potential impact of Iran’s actions on global energy markets, particularly its attempts to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. She vowed that the UAE would continue its efforts to mitigate the developing energy crisis, recognizing the potential for increased costs for consumers worldwide – impacting grocery bills, fuel prices, and overall food security. The UAE, she affirmed, remains “a responsible and committed supplier to the global energy market.”
The minister as well highlighted the safety and security of the approximately 500,000 European residents within the UAE, assuring them that they will not only be protected but also continue to thrive. This commitment extends to maintaining the country’s long-term economic development plans and ensuring the resilience of its transport networks.
Investment in Future Technologies
Looking ahead, Nusseibeh pointed to substantial investments in artificial intelligence infrastructure as a key component of the UAE’s future economic strategy. These investments include a $1.5 trillion partnership with the United States for AI data centers, as well as similar projects in Europe, specifically in Italy and France. These initiatives are designed to position the UAE as a global hub for AI and ensure its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy.
While acknowledging that complete control over the regional environment is unrealistic, Nusseibeh reiterated the UAE’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its own security and the well-being of its residents. “We don’t promise that the regional environment can be entirely controlled,” she admitted, “but we do promise that we will keep our country safe, we will our residents safe.”
The UAE’s long-term strategy, built on decades of diversification and adaptation, is designed to withstand geopolitical shocks. As the Gulf region faces a serious security crisis, the UAE remains focused on economic transformation and future industries. The path forward, Nusseibeh indicated, hinges on Iran’s willingness to engage in diplomatic negotiations with the United States and find a path to de-escalation.
The situation remains fluid, and continued monitoring of diplomatic efforts and regional developments will be crucial. Share your thoughts and perspectives on this evolving situation in the comments below.
