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War enters Day 19: Mofa presents overview of UAE's response to Iranian attacks
The UAE maintains a robust strategic stockpile of munitions, ensuring sustained interception and response capabilities over extended periods
- PUBLISHED: Wed 18 Mar 2026, 8:52 AM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
As the war in the Middle East entered Day 19 on March 18, 2026, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Mofa) presented the public with a comprehensive overview of Iranian attacks launched against the country so far and the nation's resilience in face of threats.
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In a statement, Mofa reiterated the UAE's unequivocal rejection of any aggression targeting its security or sovereignty, while affirming that it remains steadfast and fully prepared to respond decisively to any threat to protect its citizens, residents of over 200 nationalities, and visitors, and defend its national interests.
"Our air defense systems have successfully intercepted the vast majority of more than 2,001 missiles and drones launched against the UAE, reflecting the strength and sophistication of our defensive capabilities," Mofa said, while highlighting the fact that residents are going about their daily lives, businesses remain open, and the tourism sector continues to welcome visitors while maintaining strong safety measures.
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Human impact, threats as of March 17
Military readiness
Mofa also stressed that the UAE maintains a robust strategic stockpile of munitions, ensuring sustained interception and response capabilities over extended periods.
Integrated multi-layer air defence systems that are capable of addressing a broad spectrum of aerial threats are being operated through long range, medium range, and short-range systems that provide comprehensive coverage of national airspace.
International Response, diplomatice efforts
On the diplomatic front, the UAE's efforts to de-escalate the situation have been extensive. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conducted over 100 calls with world leaders to discuss the crisis, while Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed held over 100 meeting and calls with ounterparts worldwide.
The international response to the aggression has been clear. On March 11, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2817 that was co-sponsored by 136 Countries and condemns in the strongest terms Iran's missile and drone attacks on the uae and neighboring countries.
The Resolution demands that Iran immediately cease attacks and provocations, including through proxies and stresses its liability for all injury and damage caused to affected countries as a result of its unlawful armed attacks.
Resilient economy
Despite the challenges, the UAE economy remains stable, resilient, and globally integrated despite regional tensions. Take a look at key economic indicators in the UAE:
Non-oil sectors account for 75% of GDP
Sovereign wealth funds hold approximately $2.49 trillion in assets making the UAE the third-largest sovereign wealth holder globally, after the US and China.
S&P Global recently affirmed the UAE's AA/A-1+ credit rating with a stable outlook
Capital Adequacy Ratio: 17%
Liquid Coverage Ratio: ~146.6%
Total Banking Sector Assets: Dh5.42 trillion
UAE's consolidated net asset position of GDP Projected in 2026: 184%
Estimation of Government liquid assets of GDP: 210%
Average Budget Surplus of GDP (Last 5 Years): 5.6%
The country has made no change to investment plans or long-term economic priorities, while strengthening its economic and investment partnerships with vital markets around the world, and built a business environment that ranks among the most distinguished globally.
Tourism in UAE
The tourism sector is operating normally in the UAE and 1,260 hotels continue to welcome guests. Resorts, attractions, and retail centers remain open and operating in full compliance with safety standards
Hotels are extending stays for affected visitors, while the UAE is covering accommodation and catering costs for passengers stranded at airports due to postponed flights, highlighting the UAE's commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all those present on its territory.
Despite regional tensions, more than 1.4 million passengers passed through UAE airports and national carriers between March 1 and 12.
Yasmin Hussein is an Assistant Digital Editor who believes that every news story carries a human element. Her motto is 'get it first, but first get it right'.