Explosions reverberated over Dubai as United Arab Emirates air defenses intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 drones launched from Iran. The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed the successful interceptions, attributing sounds heard in scattered areas, including Dubai, to air defense systems neutralizing the threats.

The UAE briefly closed its airspace as a precaution before resuming operations once the situation stabilized. Authorities emphasized that public safety remained the priority, with no immediate reports of injuries or major damage directly from Tuesday's interceptions over Dubai.

This latest barrage forms part of a broader Iranian campaign against the UAE that began on February 28, 2026, following coordinated Israeli and United States strikes on Iranian leadership and infrastructure, including the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has accused the UAE of facilitating attacks on its territory, such as a US strike on Kharg Island.

UAE defenses have neutralized 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 drones since the onset of the attacks. While most threats have been stopped, debris from interceptions has caused issues. On Tuesday, shrapnel from a downed ballistic missile killed one Pakistani national in Abu Dhabi's Bani Yas area. Separately, drones struck the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, igniting a fire that civil defense teams extinguished without casualties.

Overall casualties stand at eight dead, including two UAE servicemen, and 157 injured, mostly foreign workers. Damage has included fires at ports, refineries, and landmarks in Dubai, such as the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab, alongside disruptions to Dubai International Airport.

The UAE has rejected Iran's claims of retaliation, describing the strikes as unprovoked aggression during a United Nations Human Rights Council session. Educational institutions extended remote learning, and some government employees shifted to work from home.

Regional neighbors like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait reported similar interceptions amid the escalating conflict. The UAE Ministry of Defence affirmed its readiness to protect sovereignty and stability.