Continuos interception shows the scale of ongoing threat, said authorities. Yet equipment stands prepared, ensuring safety across national borders along with civilian areas. Though risks remain present, protection measures stay active without pause.
UAE Air Defences Intercept Missiles and UAVs
From Iran came 10 ballistic missiles along with 45 UAVs on March 17, 2026 — each met midflight by UAE air defences. A statement released later by the Ministry of Defence confirmed the successful neutralisation. Protection of national airspace remains a central focus during these continuing security actions. Civilian facilities stayed unharmed throughout the episode.
Scale of Attacks Since Start of Escalation
From the beginning of Iran’s offensive actions, defence systems in the United Arab Emirates stopped 314 ballistic missiles and 15 cruise missiles, countered through active surveillance measures. 1,672 UAVs, neutralized before reaching intended zones. These numbers reflect a prolonged pressure on airspace security under current regional tensions. Despite complexity, UAE air defences responses remained consistent throughout repeated incidents.
Casualties: Military and Civilians
Two service personnel lost their lives carrying out official responsibilities, according to the Ministry of Defence. Separately reported were fatalities involving six civilians— originating from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Palestine — caught in events connected to the incident.

Injuries Reported Across Nationalities
Over all 157 people have been injured in incidents related to the attacks, ranging from slight to critical, authorities stated. Those harmed include citizens from different countries, showing the UAE’s diverse resident population. Among them are people from the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, the Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden, and Tunisia.
Defence Forces Stay on High Alert
Despite quiet skies, readiness stays high according to defence authorities. UAE air defences remain positioned. Stability is held as non-negotiable by leadership voices. Any move against safety will meet measured resistance. Sovereign power, along with key operations, remains under constant protection. Preparedness does not waver, even in calm conditions, while UAE air defences continue safeguarding the nation.
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