As the US and Israel military campaign against Iran enters its second day, the United Arab Emirates, long seen as one of the safest and most stable Gulf nations, finds itself responding to escalating regional tensions with broad public safety measures and urgent advisories for residents. From missile alerts to distance-learning directives and official dos and don’ts, here’s what UAE residents must know as of March 1, 2026.
National safety first: What UAE authorities are saying amid US–Israel war on Iran
The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Ministry of Interior (MoI) have repeatedly emphasised that your safety is the top priority, reassuring the public that the situation is being monitored continually by national security and defence agencies. The UAE’s early-warning systems and integrated emergency framework remain active across the country.
Authorities sent direct mobile alerts to residents urging calm and compliance with official instructions, a rare but crucial move reflecting heightened risks from Iran’s retaliatory attacks in the Gulf following US–Israel strikes.
Official messaging underscores:
- The UAE is fully prepared and assessing developments around the clock.
- Residents should rely only on verified government channels for updates.
- Public reassurance and cooperation are key to navigating the evolving situation.
Dos and don't for UAE residents if you get an alert amid US–Israel war on Iran
If you receive an emergency alert or hear a loud alarm tone, authorities instruct you to -
Do:
- Seek shelter immediately in a secure building, ideally in an interior room or area with minimal exposure to windows or open entrances.
- Stay calm, await further official instructions and keep tuned to verified government notifications for updates.
- Report any suspicious debris or objects you see after interceptions to authorities for professional handling.
Don’t:
- Panic or rush outdoors.
- Ignore alarm tones, head toward windows or open areas, even if the immediate threat seems distant.
- Attempt to handle debris or unknown objects yourself.
These precautions are essential given Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone activity across the Gulf, which has led to intercepted threats over UAE cities and regional airspace closures.
Avoid sharing rumours or unverified content in the UAE amid US–Israel war on Iran
Misinformation can spread fast during conflicts and authorities in the UAE are not taking it lightly. The Public Prosecution has warned that sharing or reposting unverified content online, even if you didn’t create it, can lead to legal consequences, including fines or prosecution, under federal law governing rumours and cyber safety.
Official advice:
- Verify the source before sharing anything.
- Trust government social media handles and official news agencies only.
- Avoid reposting videos, audio clips or claims without confirmation from credible authorities.
This guidance reflects broader regional concerns about misinformation during geopolitical crises, where social media posts can quickly contribute to fear and confusion.
UAE schools, universities and exams: What parents should know amid US–Israel war on Iran
The UAE’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research have announced temporary distance learning for all schools and universities from March 2 through March 4, 2026, a precautionary shift designed to protect students, faculty and staff while maintaining academic continuity.
Important notes for parents and students:
- The move to online classes covers public and private institutions nationwide.
- Final examinations have not been cancelled unless official circulars are issued, rumours about cancellations are false.
- The shift is under review and could be extended based on the evolving situation.
Additionally, boards like India’s CBSE have postponed Class 10 and 12 exams scheduled across multiple Gulf countries, including the UAE and will review further dates after March 3.
Travel and UAE airspace disruptions linger amid US–Israel war on Iran
Major flight disruptions continue across the Gulf region due to airspace closures, with airlines cancelling, rerouting or delaying services at key hubs including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah airports. Residents and travellers are advised to:
- Verify flight status directly with carriers before heading to the airport.
- Expect possible changes at short notice as authorities prioritise safety.
- Monitor updates via official airport or airline channels.
These disruptions stem from widespread Iranian attacks on regional infrastructure, including airports and other civil targets, after the US–Israel offensive on Iran.
UAE foreign missions and citizens advisory
Several foreign governments, including those of Ireland, the United States, UK, Australia and India, have issued security advisories to their citizens in the UAE, urging them to stay indoors, register with embassies and follow official safety instructions. Some also warn of travel disruptions due to airspace closures.
Embassies continue to operate hotlines and support systems for nationals, reinforcing the need for coordinated communication during this period. The Ministry of Interior has urged residents to dial the emergency hotline (999) strictly for genuine emergencies, stressing that keeping the line clear is essential to ensure swift response times and effective assistance. Authorities also called on the public to cooperate fully and act responsibly, emphasising that collective vigilance is key to safeguarding community safety.
- 999 — Police/Emergency (for genuine emergencies only)
- 998 — Ambulance
- 997 — Civil Defence/Fire
- 996— Coast Guard
- 991—Electricity failures
- 995—Find and Rescue
- 901— Non-emergency enquiries
For updates, UAE residents and suggested to rely only on official channels of the UAE government departments and follow the X (formerly Twitter) handles of the following entities:
- @UAEmediaoffice — UAE Government Media Office
- @NCEMAUAE — National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority
- @moiuae — UAE Ministry of Interior
- @modgovae — UAE Ministry of Defence
- @mofauae — UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- @ADMediaOffice — Abu Dhabi Media Office
- @DXBMediaOffice — Dubai Media Office
- @sharjahmedia — Sharjah Government Media Bureau
- @Ajman —Media Ajman Media Office
- @RAKmediaoffice —Ras Al Khaimah Media Office
- @FjMediaoffice —Fujairah Media Office
While the UAE remains in a high state of alert, authorities have stressed that normal life should continue wherever it’s safe to do so, with essential services functioning and security protocols in place to manage risk.
Residents should:
- Stay indoors when alerts are issued.
- Stay updated through official sources like NCEMA, MoI, Ministry of Defence and government media offices.
- Follow safety instructions without delay.
- Avoid spreading unverified information.
Official alerts and emergency messaging have been sent due to ongoing US–Israel war on Iran tensions. Shelter protocols and safety guidelines focus on minimising risk from possible missile threats or debris. Misinformation carries legal penalties in the UAE if shared irresponsibly. Schools and universities switch to distance learning as a precaution. Air travel continues to be severely impacted by airspace closures. Foreign missions urge evacuation caution and sheltering. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and follow government instructions closely as the situation continues to evolve.
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