The UAE has faced consecutive days of missile and drone attacks from Iran, despite Iranian denials of involvement. On May 4, 2026, Iranian forces launched a salvo of 15 missiles towards the UAE, all of which were intercepted by the country’s air defense systems.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) denied carrying out any missile or drone operations against the UAE. They stated, “If any action had been taken, we would have announced it firmly and clearly. Therefore, the report of that country’s Ministry of Defense is absolutely denied and is devoid of any truth.” However, the UAE’s Defense Ministry reported that the sounds heard in various parts of the country were due to air defense systems intercepting missiles and drones.
During this recent escalation, three Indian nationals sustained injuries from the attacks. The UAE’s air defense systems engaged 12 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles, and four drones during these incidents. Abu Dhabi condemned the Iranian attacks as terrorist and unprovoked.
This situation follows a period of heightened tensions between Iran and the US. The US imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports on April 13, 2026. President Trump announced “Project Freedom” to guide vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid fears of renewed conflict.
The escalation comes amid fears of a return to war between Iran and the US, following a ceasefire agreement on April 8, 2026. During five weeks of war prior to this ceasefire, the UAE was targeted by at least 2,800 missiles and drones.
Due to ongoing missile threats, the UAE restricted its airspace for a full week. Alert messages were issued in Dubai and Abu Dhabi advising residents to seek shelter in secure buildings. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate their next steps in this ongoing conflict.