Red Sea and Hormuz face shipping threats while life and flights continue as usual in the UAE.
The conflict between the United States and Iran entered its 13th consecutive night of US airstrikes, as the United Nations warned that the Middle East is edging towards the “unimaginable.” The escalating tensions have driven oil prices above $100 a barrel, heightened security concerns across the Gulf and prompted increased vigilance in the UAE.
Here’s what UAE residents need to know today:
Trump says frozen Iranian assets to fund compensation for shipping losses
US President Donald Trump said late on Thursday that Washington would begin using frozen Iranian assets to compensate for ships and cargo damaged in attacks linked to the Iranian regime in and around the Gulf.
Trump wrote on Truth Social that the US would use Iranian assets under its control to cover losses caused by attacks on ships and cargo.
“From this point forth, any and all damages done to ships, cargo, or anything related thereto, will be paid for by Iranian money that the United States has in its possession and controls,” he said.
In a separate speech, Trump said Iran “needs more pain” before it abandons its pursuit of nuclear weapons, accusing the Islamic Republic of having “evil intentions” and vowing it would “never” be allowed to acquire a nuclear arsenal.
US carries out 13th consecutive night of strikes
The US military launched another round of overnight strikes on Iranian military targets, extending its campaign for a 13th straight night. According to Washington, the operations targeted missile launch sites, drone facilities and maritime assets that it says pose a threat to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
UAE flights remain operational
Flight operations at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports continue as normal. However, several international airlines have rerouted services or extended suspensions on selected Middle East routes due to ongoing regional security concerns. Passengers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airline before travelling.
UN warns region is nearing the “unimaginable”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued one of his strongest warnings to date, saying the Middle East is at risk of spiralling into a wider conflict as hostilities spread across Iran, the Red Sea and key maritime trade routes. While diplomatic efforts remain under way, there is little indication of an immediate breakthrough.
UAE condemns attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan
The UAE has condemned the recent attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, reiterating its solidarity with fellow Gulf nations and calling for full respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Abu Dhabi maintains focus on diplomacy and security
Abu Dhabi has continued to stress the importance of diplomacy and de-escalation while maintaining heightened security measures around critical infrastructure as regional tensions persist.
UAE condemns Houthi attacks in the Red Sea
The UAE has also condemned attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels on commercial vessels in the Red Sea after two Saudi-linked oil tankers were targeted.
The incidents have heightened concerns over the security of another key global shipping route, alongside the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices approach $100 a barrel
Brent crude has climbed to nearly — and in some sessions above — $100 a barrel, fuelled by concerns that continued attacks on commercial shipping could disrupt global energy supplies and tighten oil markets.
Higher oil prices could affect travel costs
For UAE residents, a prolonged period of elevated oil prices could eventually lead to higher global transport and air travel costs. However, domestic fuel prices in the UAE continue to be determined through the country’s monthly fuel price adjustment mechanism.
Tankers continue operating despite attacks
Commercial vessels are continuing to transit the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz under enhanced naval protection despite repeated attacks in the region.
Although shipping companies are facing significantly higher insurance costs and stricter security measures, neither waterway has been officially closed, allowing global trade to continue.
US-Saudi nuclear deal adds strategic dimension
Washington has announced a landmark civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing it as the foundation of a long-term strategic partnership while incorporating safeguards aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation.
The agreement comes as the Gulf’s strategic importance continues to increase amid the ongoing regional conflict.
What UAE residents should do
- Stay updated through official announcements from UAE authorities.
- Check with your airline for the latest flight information before travelling.
- Follow instructions issued by local authorities in the event of any emergency alerts.
- Avoid sharing or relying on unverified information circulating on social media.
Bottom line
There have been no reports of fresh attacks inside the UAE today, and daily life across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the other emirates continues as normal.
However, as the US intensifies its military campaign, Houthi attacks continue to threaten shipping in the Red Sea, oil prices remain above $100 a barrel, and the United Nations warns of the risk of a broader regional conflict, Gulf countries — including the UAE — remain on heightened alert while closely monitoring the evolving security situation.
