The United Arab Emirates confirmed three expatriates were killed and dozens more injured following two days of Iranian missile and drone strikes, as the country’s air defence systems intercepted the majority of incoming threats and limited widespread destruction across civilian areas.
Authorities said the fatalities included workers from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh, underscoring the toll on the UAE’s large expatriate population. Officials described the deaths as isolated incidents caused by falling debris and impacts near residential and industrial zones rather than direct hits on heavily populated districts.
In total, 58 cases of minor injuries were reported among citizens and residents of various nationalities. Those affected included Emiratis as well as Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationals.
Emergency services treated most injuries on site, while several people were transferred to hospitals for observation. Health officials said the majority were discharged the same day, with no life-threatening cases recorded beyond the three fatalities.
The Ministry of Defence detailed the scale of the aerial assault, describing it as one of the most extensive missile and drone barrages the country has faced in recent years. It confirmed that air defence forces remained on high alert throughout the period.
On the second day of attacks alone, air defence units destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, downed eight into the sea, eliminated two cruise missiles and intercepted 311 drones. Despite those interceptions, 21 drones reportedly struck civilian targets, causing property damage but limited casualties.
Since Saturday, February 28, defence systems detected 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran toward the UAE. Of these, 152 were destroyed mid-air, while 13 fell harmlessly into surrounding waters. Two cruise missiles were also detected and neutralised before impact.
Drone activity was even more intense. Officials reported that 541 drones were identified approaching the country. Of those, 506 were intercepted and destroyed, while 35 managed to reach UAE territory, resulting primarily in material damage to infrastructure and vehicles.
Debris from intercepted missiles and drones accounted for much of the destruction. Shrapnel fragments and falling wreckage damaged buildings, warehouses and parked cars in several emirates, according to authorities. Residents shared images of broken windows and scattered metal fragments on social media.
The ministry said its air force and air defence forces “successfully intercepted a large number of projectiles,” adding that coordinated radar monitoring and rapid response measures helped prevent what could have been far greater losses.
Officials stressed that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains the government’s top priority. Security patrols were increased around sensitive sites, while emergency teams were placed on standby across major urban centres.
Authorities urged the public to rely exclusively on official channels for information, warning that rumours or unverified footage could spread unnecessary panic. They called on residents to follow safety instructions and report suspicious objects or debris to emergency services.
The incidents have heightened concerns among expatriate communities, who make up the majority of the UAE’s workforce. Many companies temporarily adjusted work schedules and allowed remote operations while authorities assessed risks and cleared impacted areas.
Analysts say the high interception rate demonstrates the effectiveness of the UAE’s layered defence systems, which combine early warning radars, missile shields and coordinated air patrols. However, they caution that the volume of drones highlights evolving threats that challenge even advanced defences.
For now, daily life across the Emirates has largely returned to normal, with airports, ports and public services operating as usual. Officials insist the country remains prepared to respond decisively to any further escalation.
As tensions persist in the region, the UAE has reiterated its commitment to protecting all residents and maintaining stability, while continuing to monitor developments closely and reinforce its defensive posture.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members