Since the start of the war, more than 1,700 missiles and drones have been fired at the UAE, over 90% of which were intercepted. By number of attacks, the UAE has been targeted more frequently than even Israel. Four civilians have been killed as a result of hits in residential areas.

Why Dubai? According to LSE professor Fawaz Gerges, "Dubai is the epicenter of globalization," and Iranian leaders view it as a pillar of the Western global economic system. Footage of fires near international hotels and at the airport amplifies the psychological impact and draws global attention.

Iran long maintained close ties with the UAE — around half a million Iranians live in the Emirates and bilateral trade in 2024 totaled $28 billion. However, Abu Dhabi's strategic alliance with Washington — the UAE is a US "major defense partner" and has invested tens of billions in American weapons systems — made it a target. Geography also plays a role: there are only about 100 km of water between Iran and the UAE.

Reaction. President Mohamed bin Zayed visited the wounded and warned: "Do not be deceived by the UAE's appearance. We have thick skin — we are not easy prey." Initial shock quickly turned to anger toward Iran. Trump admitted to CNN that his biggest surprise during the conflict was Iran's willingness to attack neighboring Arab countries.