UAE

Dubai, Israel, and the impact of the Iran war on hospitality

As regional tensions escalated into direct confrontation with Iran, the impact on Dubai’s tourism sector, so beloved by Israeli travelers, was almost immediate.

DUBAI’S SKYLINE of hotels.
Lockheed Martin’s Patriot Advanced Capability 3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE)

US bypasses congressional review for military sales of $8.6 billion to Middle East allies

The United Arab Emirates flag flutters against the backdrop of the Abu Dhabi Skyline following a reported Iranian strike on March 1, 2026.

UAE bars citizens from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and UAE National Security Adviser, arrive at Doha International Airport, in Doha, Qatar, September 10, 2025

Fractures rock Gulf alliance as UAE quits OPEC during Iran war - analysis


UAE exit weakens OPEC+ power over oil market but group to stay together, sources say - analysis

The exit would complicate OPEC+'s efforts to balance the market through supply adjustments because the group would have control over less of the global production.

 A 3D-printed oil pump jack is seen in front of displayed OPEC logo in this illustration picture, April 14, 2020.

UAE taking advantage of long-term global energy needs by leaving OPEC - analysis

“At a pivotal moment in the process of supporting the stability of global energy markets, the UAE adopted a long-term strategic and economic vision,” one report says.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and UAE National Security Adviser, arrive at Doha International Airport, in Doha, Qatar, September 10, 2025

UAE leaves OPEC and OPEC+ in major blow to global oil producers' group

UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei told Reuters the decision was made after a careful look at the regional power's energy strategies.

UAE's Oil Minister OPEC President Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei and OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo address a news conference after an OPEC meeting in Vienna, Austria, June 22, 2018.

Iran clashes with US, UAE, over position in UN nuclear non-proliferation conference

The US Representative to the UN made clear that the US objected to Iran’s nomination, calling it an “affront to the Non-Proliferation Treaty itself.”

People arrive at the United Nations headquarters before a meeting on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty at the UN, in New York City, US, April 27, 2026.

Israel sent Iron Dome system, dozens of IDF soldiers to UAE during Iran war

This is the first instance of the Iron Dome being used operationally outside the United States or Israel, though Singapore has reportedly previously purchased and received Iron Dome as well.

(Illustrative) Iron dome anti-missile system fires interception missiles as rockets fired from the Gaza Strip to Israel, in Ashkelon on August 7, 2022.

Israeli 'violations' of Temple Mount spark backlash from Muslim, Arab states

In a joint statement, eight Arab countries condemned Israel's actions at Jerusalem's holy sites, calling them "provocations" and violations of international law.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir visits Temple Mount alongside Rabbi Elisha Wolfson, calling to expand Jewish worship at holy site, Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Trump says currency swap with UAE is under consideration

The UAE's ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, said he appreciated Trump's recognition of the country as an important partner but maintained that the UAE's economy remained resilient.

 US President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office after signing an Executive Order April 18, 2026 in Washington, DC.

Airline pilots fear retribution over refusing to fly in Middle East, aviators' group says

Airline pilots express widespread safety concerns flying in the Middle East during the Iran conflict, fearing retribution from airlines for refusing high-risk assignments.

An Emirates aircraft is seen through the window of a Middle East Airlines airplane at Cairo International Airport, March 31, 2026; illustrative.

Zelensky’s Syria visit symbolizes new future for Middle East diplomacy - analysis

Ukrainian President Zelensky’s visit to Syria marks a symbolic step toward a peaceful future, fostering cooperation between Syria, Turkey, and Ukraine despite regional conflicts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa (R) in Damascus, April 5, 2026.

RAF shoots down Iranian drones over Middle Eastern countries to protect British allies, interests

Additionally, Saudi Arabia's Defense Ministry said it intercepted an Iranian cruise missile launched towards the Gulf state on Sunday morning.

Birds scatter as a Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon jet comes in to land at RAF Coningsby after a sortie on February 19, 2026.