UAE Intercepts Six Ballistic Missiles and 125 Drones During Iranian Attack

United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence announced that the country’s air defense systems intercepted multiple aerial threats launched from Iran, including ballistic missiles and drones, during an escalation in the ongoing regional conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel that began in late February 2026. The incident formed part of a broader wave of retaliatory strikes targeting several Gulf states. According to the Ministry of Defence, Emirati air defense units detected seven ballistic missiles approaching the country. Six of those missiles were successfully intercepted and destroyed before reaching their targets, while one missile fell inside the United Arab Emirates. Authorities did not immediately report casualties linked to the missile that landed within the country’s territory. In the same wave of attacks, the ministry reported that 131 drones were detected heading toward the UAE. Air defense systems intercepted 125 of those drones, while six drones fell within the country. Officials said the interceptions were carried out as part of ongoing defensive operations responding to repeated Iranian missile and drone launches targeting the Gulf region. The ministry also provided cumulative figures since the beginning of the conflict in late February. By 05/03/2026, Emirati defenses had detected 196 ballistic missiles launched toward the country, with 181 destroyed, 13 falling into the sea, and two landing within the UAE. In addition, 1,072 drones had been detected during the same period, with 1,001 intercepted and 71 falling inside the country. Eight cruise missiles had also been detected and destroyed by air defense systems. Iran’s strikes on the UAE were part of a broader pattern of attacks directed at Gulf states following U.S. and Israeli military operations against Iranian targets in late February 2026. The conflict has resulted in repeated aerial interceptions across the region, disruptions to airspace, and increased military deployments by several countries supporting regional defense efforts.