The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced that it intercepted 16 ballistic missiles and 42 drones launched from Iran, according to a statement reported by Al Jazeera on March 29, 2026. The UAE Ministry of Defense said on social media platform X that its air defense systems are actively countering Iranian ballistic and cruise missiles as well as drones.

The ministry further stated that since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, UAE forces have intercepted a total of 414 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,914 drones. The ongoing assaults have resulted in the deaths of two UAE armed forces members and one Moroccan contractor working with the military. Additionally, eight foreign nationals from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Palestine, and India have also been killed.

The report highlights the continuing escalation between Iran and regional actors, with the UAE facing repeated aerial threats and maintaining active defense operations.