politics
March 15, 2026
Why the United Arab Emirates is a target for Iran's aggression
Iran is looking to test a state that has positioned itself as the Gulf's safest bridge between East and West — and the future of the region.
TL;DR
- The UAE has been heavily targeted by Iran, second only to Israel, with over 268 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,514 drones intercepted as of March 12.
- Strikes have affected key infrastructure including airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, hotels, residential buildings, Dubai's International Financial Center, Jebel Ali Port, and the U.S. consulate.
- Iran's attacks aim to pressure the U.S., disrupt global energy flows, unsettle international finance and corporates, and generate worldwide attention.
- The UAE's reputation as a safe and progressive business hub, attracting Big Tech investments and serving as a major defense partner with the U.S., is being tested.
- Major international banks have pulled employees from Dubai offices, and tech giants like Google, Oracle, and IBM have been named as targets, raising questions about the region's attractiveness for investment.
- Energy infrastructure, including the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company's Ruwais refinery, has been targeted, potentially disrupting supply chains and energy exports.
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