Iran Retaliates On UAE with 137 Missiles And 209 Drones: Air Defences Intercept Most, One Killed As Flights Cancelled and Schools Go Online
The United Arab Emirates experienced a fresh wave of Iranian drone and missile attacks on Sunday (Mar 1), launched in retaliation for the joint US-Israel strikes that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several other top leaders of the Islamic Republic.
Air defence systems successfully engaged dozens of incoming projectiles throughout the morning. By midday, officials described the situation as remaining tense but noticeably calmer compared to the overnight hours.
Details of Missile and Drone Attacks
The UAE Ministry of Defence reported that Iran had fired 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones in the direction of UAE territory. Defence systems intercepted 132 of the missiles in mid-air, with the remaining five dropping into the sea. Out of the drones, 195 were brought down, while 14 landed on the ground, leading to limited damage mainly from debris and shrapnel.
No major direct strikes were recorded on critical civilian infrastructure, according to authorities. The government noted that the country’s air defence capabilities are operating at full capacity, with the situation under control and forces staying on high alert.
Casualties from the Iranian Strikes
At least one individual lost their life in Abu Dhabi after being hit by falling shrapnel. Additional people suffered mostly minor injuries in different areas of the country. Debris caused injuries near Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi. In Dubai, residents in some neighbourhoods reported minor injuries when drone fragments landed on homes.
Four staff members at Dubai International Airport were injured in a debris-related incident, which also resulted in slight damage to a concourse area.
Effects on Key Locations in Dubai and Beyond
At Jebel Ali Port, falling debris from interceptors sparked smoke and a fire, which civil defence teams promptly contained. Port activities faced partial disruptions but continued without a full halt. Debris also led to fires and smoke on Palm Jumeirah and in the vicinity of the Fairmont hotel complex. The Burj Al Arab suffered some façade damage due to interception debris, though no substantial structural issues were confirmed.
Central Dubai’s main business zones, including Sheikh Zayed Road and the DIFC district, reported no significant structural damage.
Travel and Airspace Disruptions
The partial and full closures of UAE airspace have created widespread travel issues, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Dubai International Airport halted flights due to the minor damage and safety precautions. Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central) similarly suspended operations.
Leading airlines Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai have extended their flight cancellations, with some measures set to remain in place at least until Monday afternoon.
Schools and Universities Switch to Remote Classes
Educational institutions throughout the UAE moved to online learning as a precautionary step until at least March 4. Emergency shelter warnings were broadcast overnight and into the early morning, but no additional nationwide alerts have been issued in recent hours.
Authorities have called on residents to stay calm, keep track of official government communications, and ensure their mobile devices are prepared for emergency alerts.
Ongoing Regional Tensions
The Iranian assaults on the UAE serve as retaliation for the US-Israeli military actions against Iran, which persisted into Sunday. The UAE has strongly condemned these attacks, describing them as violations of its sovereignty. While the country has stated it retains the right to respond, the immediate priority appears to be pursuing diplomatic solutions amid the unstable situation in the Gulf region.
Disclaimer: Mumbai Samachar takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, Mumbai Samachar cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.