UAE intercepts 22 missiles and 47 UAVs
Air defence systems neutralise multiple aerial threats launched from Iran
ABU DHABI – The UAE’s air defence systems intercepted a fresh wave of aerial threats on Friday, engaging multiple ballistic and cruise missiles alongside dozens of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The incident marks the latest in a series of ongoing attacks attributed to Iran, as defence forces continue to respond to repeated incursions into the country’s airspace.
According to official figures, a total of 18 ballistic missiles, four cruise missiles and 47 UAVs were successfully engaged during the latest episode.
الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع الصواريخ الباليستية والجوالة والمسيرات الإيرانية.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) April 3, 2026
UAE Air Defences engaged Iranian
Ballistic and Cruise Missiles and UAVs Attacks#وزارة_الدفاع #وزارة_الدفاع_الإماراتية#MOD#UAEMinistryOfDefence pic.twitter.com/MTIcQdyxuH
Since the start of the attacks, UAE air defences have intercepted a total of 475 ballistic missiles, 23 cruise missiles and 2,085 UAVs. Authorities confirmed that the engagements were carried out in line with established defence protocols, aimed at safeguarding populated areas and critical infrastructure.
Casualties reported
The attacks have resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries across a wide range of nationalities. Two members of the UAE Armed Forces embraced martyrdom while carrying out their national duty. A Moroccan civilian working under contract with the Armed Forces was also among those who lost their lives.
In addition, nine expatriates from Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian communities were reported among the fatalities. Emergency services confirmed that a total of 203 individuals sustained injuries, ranging from minor to severe.
Those injured included nationals from the UAE and several other countries, including Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.
Medical teams and emergency responders have been deployed to manage the situation, providing treatment and support to those affected. Authorities continue to monitor developments closely as defensive operations remain ongoing.