UAE detects missiles directed towards country, issues alert and later lifts warning

The United Arab Emirates issued a high-level emergency alert on Tuesday, August 18, after detecting missiles “directed towards the country” for the first time in months.

Residents across the UAE received a sudden mobile notification warning of “potential missile threats”. They were instructed to “immediately seek a safe place in the closest secure building”.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems successfully intercepted multiple threats.

Residents in Dubai reported hearing unusual sounds shortly after the alert. Authorities later clarified that the sounds were linked to the interception process.

Within minutes, an “all clear” was issued, Khaleej Times reported. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) subsequently reassured residents that the situation was safe.

People were told they could resume their normal activities but were urged to remain cautious and continue following official updates.

First such warning since early May

Tuesday’s alert marks the first time since early May that a missile warning was issued for a threat that actually entered UAE territory.

A similar alert on July 12 involved threats that remained outside the country’s borders. Meanwhile, a notification issued on June 26 was later attributed to a technical glitch.

The latest warning therefore came against a backdrop of heightened concern over possible spillover from tensions elsewhere in the region.

Regional tensions remain high

The incident came two days after a temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran expired.

Regional tensions have also increased around the Strait of Hormuz. An Adnoc vessel was attacked on August 14, adding to concerns over security in the strategically important area.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the United States and Iran are not currently in communication.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said it remains “fully prepared to respond to any threat” and protect the country’s stability.

Authorities have advised families and workers to remain vigilant and rely only on official channels for further information.