The United Arab Emirates remains on heightened security alert as tensions escalate across West Asia following United States strikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s main crude export hub in the Persian Gulf. US President Donald Trump said American forces destroyed several military targets on the island but avoided striking the oil export infrastructure. Iranian authorities have not yet released a detailed assessment of the damage, though the island remains a critical centre for Iran’s oil exports and the wider economy.
Meanwhile, an intercepted drone struck the port area of Fujairah Port, forcing the suspension of some operations. The facility is one of the largest oil storage and bunkering hubs in the region and plays a key role in supplying fuel to ships. Located on the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah allows vessels to load fuel without passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely closed to commercial shipping since the conflict began nearly two weeks ago. Videos circulating online showed large plumes of smoke rising over the port complex on the UAE’s eastern coast. The UAE’s air defence systems intercepted nine ballistic missiles and 33 drones launched by Iran, the Ministry of Defence said on Saturday.
The United Arab Emirates also remains on alert after Iran warned residents to avoid areas near ports, docks and locations linked to United States military activity. The warning was issued by Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which said such locations could be considered legitimate targets in response to ongoing US military operations. Authorities in the UAE have not reported any immediate attack following the statement, but air defence systems remain active as a precaution across parts of the country.
Debris from a recent aerial interception also struck the façade of a building in Dubai, causing limited damage but no injuries in that incident. Officials said the country continues to maintain a high level of defence readiness as tensions remain elevated across West Asia.
The development follows a warning from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that US interests in the UAE, including ports, docks and military facilities, could become targets after the American strikes on Kharg Island. Regional tensions are also affecting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global energy supplies. Iranian officials confirmed that two Indian-flagged LPG carriers were allowed to transit the waterway earlier in the day, even as most shipping activity remains restricted amid the ongoing crisis.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates said the country remains prepared to respond to any security threat. Residents have been urged to avoid areas near ports, military facilities and security installations unless necessary and to follow guidance issued through official government channels. They have also been reminded not to film or share videos of air defence activity or interception sites on social media, warning that such footage could compromise national security operations.
