UAE Says It Has Intercepted Hundreds of Missiles and Drones Since Start of Iranian Attack

The UAE Ministry of Defence has released a detailed assessment of the ongoing Iranian attack, confirming that the country’s air force and air defence units have intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and 541 Iranian drones since the assault began on 28 February 2026.

On the morning of the second day, UAE forces destroyed 20 ballistic missiles, while eight additional missiles fell into the sea. They also intercepted two cruise missiles and 311 drones. Despite these efforts, 21 drones managed to strike civilian areas, causing damage and casualties.  WION

Since the start of the attack, the UAE has detected 165 ballistic missiles launched from Iran. Of these, 152 were intercepted, while 13 fell into the sea. Both detected cruise missiles were destroyed. A total of 541 drones were launched toward the UAE; 506 were intercepted, while 35 fell within the country, causing material damage.

The attacks have resulted in three fatalities citizens of Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh and 58 minor injuries affecting residents of multiple nationalities, including Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationals.

The ministry reported that debris from intercepted missiles and drones fell across several areas of the country, causing minor to moderate damage to civilian properties. Emergency services have been deployed to affected sites, and authorities continue to assess structural impacts.

The Ministry of Defence reaffirmed that the UAE’s air force and air defence systems remain fully capable and ready to counter any threat. It stressed that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors is the nation’s highest priority, and urged the public to rely on official sources for updates and avoid circulating unverified information.