March 18, (THEWILL) — Air defence systems in the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday intercepted 13 ballistic missiles and 27 drones launched from Iran, as regional security concerns continue to intensify across the Gulf.
The UAE Ministry of Defence, in an official statement, said the latest interceptions were part of ongoing operations to neutralise aerial threats targeting key urban centres.
It added that since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, the country’s air defence network has destroyed a total of 327 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,699 drones.
Air raid alerts were activated in Dubai and Abu Dhabi at about 10:10 a.m., prompting residents to take precautionary measures.
Authorities, however, confirmed shortly after that all incoming threats were successfully intercepted, with no casualties recorded.
The Dubai Media Office later announced the “success of all air interception operations,” noting that normal activities resumed by 10:40 a.m.
Earlier alerts had also been issued at about 6:30 a.m. and 7:15 a.m., underscoring the sustained nature of the threat.
The escalation appears to have taken on a wider regional dimension, with Qatar confirming it intercepted a missile attack the same morning, while Kuwait said its National Guard neutralised seven drones.
Meanwhile, Dubai’s flagship tourism event, Arabian Travel Market, has been postponed amid the heightened security environment.
Organisers, RX, said the event (originally scheduled for May), will now take place from August 17 to 20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
According to the organisers, the decision was taken to prioritise the safety and well-being of participants, while also providing greater flexibility and confidence for global stakeholders in the travel and tourism sector.
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