UAE intercepts Iranian drones as air defences activate over Gulf skies

UAE air defences intercepted Iranian-origin drones over territorial waters after emergency alerts were issued across major cities. Authorities confirmed no direct impacts and urged public caution.

By TT Staff Reporter

4 May 20261 min read

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UAE air defence systems responded to incoming aerial threats after authorities issued emergency alerts across the country. — FILE/NCEMA UAE

ABU DHABI (The Thursday Times) — Air defence systems were activated across the UAE late on Monday after authorities detected incoming aerial threats, with officials confirming the successful interception of multiple objects over the country’s territorial waters.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said four cruise missiles were detected, with three successfully engaged over the country’s territorial waters, while one fell into the sea. The ministry said the sounds heard in different parts of the country were the result of air defence systems engaging the threats.

تتعامل حالياً الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية مع اعتداءات صاروخية وطائرات مسيرة قادمة من ايران وتؤكد وزارة الدفاع أن الاصوات المسموعة في مناطق متفرقة من الدولة هي نتيجة تعامل منظومات الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية للصواريخ الباليستية، والجوالة والطائرات المسيرة.

UAE Air Defences system… pic.twitter.com/fEiog7SwQq

— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) May 4, 2026

Emergency alerts were issued to residents, urging the public to follow official instructions and comply with public safety procedures when warning messages are issued.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage. Authorities urged the public to obtain information only from official sources and avoid spreading unverified claims during an active security situation.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran, with the Gulf region facing renewed concerns over missile activity, airspace security, and the safety of critical maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.

The Ministry of Defence reiterated that public safety depends on following official guidance and remaining alert during warning periods. Further updates are expected as authorities complete their assessment of the incident.∎