Amidst the ongoing regional tensions, the UAE government held a media briefing on the latest developments. The highlights of the briefing included the UAE's readiness to combat attacks and the safety of the public.
UAE Affirms Readiness And Security
During the UAE government’s media briefing, His Excellency Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Mohammed Al-Humaidi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, affirmed that the UAE is at the highest level of readiness. His Excellency Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Mohammed Al-Humaidi emphasised that the country has the required defence and armament capabilities, including national industries, to safeguard its territories and citizens, no matter how long or intense the regional escalation may be.
According to His Excellency Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Mohammed Al-Humaidi, a total of 812 Iranian drones were detected in the UAE, of which 755 were intercepted, while 57 fell within the country’s territory.
His Excellency Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Mohammed Al-Humaidi further explained that none of the damage witnessed were caused by the attack itself, but occurred as a result of the interception operations, and noted that when air defence systems intercept hostile missiles and drones, debris and shrapnel may scatter, proving that the minor damage were not due to direct strikes on targets within the country’s territory.
During today’s UAE government media briefing, the Ministry of Defence released images of examples of missiles intercepted in connection with the ongoing regional security developments. The visuals were shared to highlight the UAE’s preparedness and its commitment to safeguarding its territory and citizens
Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, stressed that the current conflict disregarded the UAE’s repeated warnings that its territory would not be used as part of the escalation. Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy also added that the UAE is home to over 200 nationalities and negotiation was the only way to contain the crisis and prevent escalation.
Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy also added that the country aims to pursue de-escalation, but will retain rights to defend itself.
The UAE Ministry of Interior reinforced its field capacity with over 3,200 specialised vehicles, more than 4,100 traffic and security patrols, and armed rapid-response units, to ensure swift intervention and effective on-the-ground response.
More Than 17,000 Passengers Transported Since 1 March
His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Cabinet Member and Minister of Economy and Tourism, said that the country has implemented precautionary measures to ensure economic stability. As for flights, between 1 March and now, approximately 17,980 passengers have been transported, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism noted. In addition, more than 80 additional flights are scheduled, with a capacity exceeding 27,000 passengers.
In addition, the UAE has also established safe air corridors with GCC countries, allowing the country to operate up to 48 flights per hour.
The UAE is doing its best, covering certain costs and providing supplies to stranded passengers. Travellers affected by flight disruptions are advised not to go to the airports unless contacted by their airlines, to avoid congestion and ensure smooth operations.
Import And Export Remain Unaffected
His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri also added that import and export activity remains unaffected, and there are no disturbances in supply chains related to the import of goods and products. Authorities urged the public not to stockpile and to shop for essentials mindfully.
24/7 Joint National Media Cell
NCEMA also confirmed that a joint national media cell has been activated 24/7 to provide transparent communication with the public and the international community, offering continuous updates and preventive guidance. Additionally, early warning systems have been used to deliver timely alerts and instructions, ensuring the public remains informed and safe during ongoing developments.