Are Iranians facing residency changes in UAE? Ministry issues statement
Authorities addresses rumours surrounding residency and community status
ABU DHABI – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has reaffirmed that the UAE remains home to a respected and valued Iranian community, describing it as an integral part of the country’s diverse social fabric.
The statement comes at a time of heightened regional tensions and follows the circulation of inaccurate claims regarding the residency status of Iranian nationals. Authorities stressed that all residents continue to be protected under established legal frameworks.
The UAE hosts more than 200 nationalities, reflecting its longstanding commitment to coexistence, tolerance and openness.
In its statement, MoFA underscored that the country’s institutional approach is guided by clear procedures designed to safeguard the safety and well-being of all members of society without exception.
UAE Affirms Embrace of Iranian Community as Integral to Its Diverse Social Fabrichttps://t.co/e1QUISmWwz pic.twitter.com/mDSfCgz4HM
— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) April 1, 2026
Iranian community in UAE
The ministry further emphasised that the Iranian community continues to play a meaningful role in the UAE’s multicultural environment. Officials reiterated that policies remain rooted in fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that residents from all backgrounds are treated equally under the law.
This clarification follows the spread of misleading reports amid the fifth week of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has heightened uncertainty across the region. The UAE has reiterated that its legal and regulatory systems remain stable and unchanged, offering reassurance to residents and businesses alike.
The statement comes a day after UAE air defences intercepted five ballistic missiles and 35 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran. The country has been facing sustained threats, including missile, drone and cruise missile activity, necessitating active and continuous defence operations.
Since the onset of the attacks, air defence systems have engaged a total of 438 ballistic missiles, 19 cruise missiles and 2,012 UAVs. The escalation has resulted in the martyrdom of two members of the armed forces while performing national duty, along with a Moroccan civilian contracted by the Armed Forces. Nine additional fatalities were reported among expatriates of various nationalities.
A total of 190 people have been injured, with cases ranging from minor to severe. Those affected include nationals from the UAE and several other countries, highlighting the broad impact of the attacks on the country’s diverse population.
The Ministry of Defence has affirmed its full readiness to respond to ongoing threats, stating that it will continue to act decisively to protect the country’s sovereignty, security and stability, while safeguarding national interests and capabilities.