Millions of residents across the UAE received emergency alerts on Saturday afternoon, urging them to shelter in place as missiles were intercepted overhead. Authorities issued urgent safety guidance following what officials described as an unprecedented regional escalation.
Here’s what you need to know about the situation — and how to stay safe during emergency alerts in the UAE.
Authorities advised residents to immediately seek shelter inside secure buildings and avoid exposed areas.
The Ministry of Interior issued emergency notifications to mobile phones across the country, instructing people to:
Seek immediate shelter in the nearest secure building
Stay away from windows and glass doors
Avoid open areas
Wait for official updates before moving
A “shelter in place” directive means remaining indoors in a safe, enclosed space until authorities confirm it is safe to resume normal activities.
Missiles launched amid escalating regional tensions were intercepted by UAE defence systems. Officials confirmed precautionary measures were activated to protect public safety.
The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority reassured residents via social media that the situation was under control and that comprehensive safety protocols were in place nationwide.
Emergency systems, including mobile alerts, were used to keep residents informed in real time.
Several embassies issued safety advisories to their nationals in the UAE.
The US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and US Consulate in Dubai instructed staff to shelter in place and advised American citizens to do the same.
The embassy recommended that US nationals:
Remain indoors in a secure location;
Keep food, water, medications and essential supplies on hand;
Monitor local media for updates;
Keep phones fully charged;
Maintain communication with family and friends.
US citizens were also encouraged to register with the Smart Traveller Enrolment Programme (STEP) to receive security updates.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised British nationals in the UAE to shelter indoors and stay away from windows.
British residents were encouraged to:
Register for travel advice alerts;
Provide updated contact details via the UK government portal;
Follow official guidance and monitor developments closely;
The UK Embassy in the United Arab Emirates confirmed it was aware of the situation and continued to monitor developments.
Indian consular officials advised nationals to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during the heightened alert period.
Government officials in Dubai emphasized that the emirate continued to operate as normal while closely monitoring the situation.
The Dubai Media Office stated that the UAE maintains a comprehensive crisis response system designed to ensure rapid action and high levels of preparedness.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to:
Maintaining public safety;
Ensuring security and stability;
Keeping essential services running efficiently;
Providing timely public updates.
If you receive an emergency alert:
Move indoors to the nearest secure building without delay.
Glass can shatter due to shockwaves. Choose an interior room if possible.
Keep water, food, medication, identification, and chargers readily available.
Monitor official government channels and trusted news outlets for updates.
Ensure your phone is charged and inform loved ones of your safety.
Authorities across the UAE continue to monitor developments around the clock in coordination with regional and international partners.
Residents are urged to remain calm, follow official guidance, and avoid spreading unverified information.
The situation remains under close supervision, with safety and stability as the top priority nationwide.
