The Ministry of Defence has announced that the country’s air force and air defence systems have intercepted and destroyed dozens of missiles and hundreds of drones since the start of what it described as an Iranian attack on 28th February 2026.
In a statement, the ministry said that since the onset of the attack, 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran towards the United Arab Emirates were detected. Of these, 152 were destroyed mid-air, while 13 fell into sea waters without causing harm. Two cruise missiles were also detected and successfully intercepted.
The ministry further revealed that a total of 541 Iranian drones were identified, with 506 intercepted and destroyed by defence systems. However, 35 drones fell within the country, resulting in material damage. On the morning of the second day of the attack alone, air defence forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, while eight fell into the sea. Two cruise missiles and 311 drones were also intercepted during the same period. Despite these efforts, 21 drones struck civilian targets.
Authorities confirmed that debris from intercepted missiles and drones fell in various areas across the country, causing minor to moderate damage to civilian properties.
The incidents have so far resulted in three fatalities involving Pakistani, Nepali and Bangladeshi nationals. Additionally, 58 people sustained minor injuries. Those affected include Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationals.
The ministry reaffirmed its full readiness to counter any further threats, stressing that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains a top priority that cannot be compromised.
