COMMUNITY

US–Israel–Iran War Day 33: UAE update for April 1

Regional tensions continue to shape daily life on day 33 of the US–Israel war with Iran, as authorities respond to air defence debris incidents, announce significant fuel price changes, and extend distance learning across the country. Here are the key developments UAE residents should know today.

One killed after drone debris falls on Fujairah farm

Authorities in Fujairah confirmed that one person was killed after debris from an intercepted drone fell on a farm in the Al-Rifa’a area. The Fujairah Government Media Office said UAE air defence systems successfully intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over the emirate, but debris from the interception subsequently landed on the farm. A Bangladeshi national died as a result of the incident, authorities said.

Debris falls on Dubai homes, four Asian nationals injured

Authorities in Dubai confirmed on Tuesday that they responded to an incident in southern Dubai caused by debris from a successful air defence interception. The debris fell on residential houses, resulting in property damage and minor injuries to four Asian nationals. Officials also confirmed that the loud sounds heard across parts of the city earlier that day were linked to the same air defence operations.

UAE announces petrol and diesel prices for April 2026

The UAE Fuel Price Committee announced the retail prices for petrol and diesel for April 2026, with significant increases across all grades. Super 98 petrol will cost Dh3.39 per litre, up from Dh2.59 in March, while Special 95 petrol is now priced at Dh3.28 per litre, compared to Dh2.48 last month. E-Plus petrol will sell for Dh3.20 per litre, rising from Dh2.40 in March. Diesel prices have also risen sharply, now standing at Dh4.69 per litre, up from Dh2.72 previously.

Distance learning extended until April 17 for universities

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in coordination with the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, announced the extension of remote learning at higher education institutions until April 17, 2026. The ministry said in-person classes will resume only for priority programmes requiring physical attendance, in strict adherence to approved safety measures. Institutions were urged to monitor developments and coordinate with local authorities to ensure continuity and maintain learning quality.

Dubai’s KHDA confirms two more weeks of distance learning

Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority confirmed that distance learning will continue across all private educational institutions in the emirate for an additional two weeks, from Monday, April 6 until Friday, April 17, 2026. The extension was made as authorities continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of students and academic and administrative staff across Dubai’s private education sector.

UAE school group waives transport fees for April

UAE education group Woodlem Education announced a waiver of transport fees across all its institutions in the country, effective from April 2026, describing it as a compassionate measure to support families during the current situation. The relief applies to parents of more than 20,000 students across 10 institutions, eight schools and two nurseries, following the authorities’ extension of distance learning until April 17, with possible further extensions if required. The group noted that transport fees for March had already been collected prior to the announcement.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank among world’s top 10 smartest cities

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have secured leading positions in the 2026 Smart City Index published by the International Institute for Management Development. Dubai ranked sixth globally, while Abu Dhabi placed tenth among 148 cities assessed. Zurich topped the global ranking, followed by Oslo, Geneva, London, and Copenhagen. The report highlighted the UAE’s model of government-led investment in digital technology as a global benchmark, noting strong public trust and significantly improved urban performance across the country.

COMMUNITY

What UAE residents need to know on March 30

As the US–Israel war with Iran enters Day 31, developments across the region continue to impact security, travel, markets and daily life in the UAE. From air defence responses and diplomatic engagements to flight schedules and education updates, here’s a detailed round-up of what residents need to know today. UK forces destroy Iranian attack drones overnight

The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that Royal Air Force units intercepted and destroyed seven Iranian one-way attack drones in a single night operation. The drones were taken down using ground-based counter-drone systems as part of ongoing defensive missions in the Middle East.

UAE air defences respond to missile threat

The UAE Ministry of Defence said air defence systems were activated in response to an incoming aerial threats, prompting precautionary alerts across the country. Authorities urged residents to remain indoors or in safe locations and to follow official updates as the situation was managed. Officials later reassured the public that defence systems are operating effectively to neutralise threats and maintain national safety amid continued regional escalation.

UAE–US talks focus on regional developments

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a virtual meeting with Joni Ernst, where both sides discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East and its implications for regional and global security. The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening UAE–US strategic ties across key sectors, emphasising cooperation that supports stability and mutual interests during a period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

Dubai gold prices see sharp correction

Gold prices in Dubai have undergone a significant correction in March after hitting record highs earlier in the month. The price of 24-karat gold dropped from above Dh640 per gram to the Dh520–Dh550 range, while 22-karat gold also declined notably. The shift has attracted renewed interest from buyers, with analysts suggesting the correction reflects broader global market adjustments linked to geopolitical tensions and fluctuating demand.

CBSE assessment changes affect UAE students

More than 10,000 CBSE Class 12 students in the UAE are navigating a new assessment system after exams were cancelled in several Middle Eastern countries due to the conflict. The revised approach relies on internal evaluations, including periodic tests and pre-board exams, to determine final grades. While some students have expressed relief, others remain concerned about whether the system will accurately reflect their academic performance.

Air India group schedules additional GCC flights

Air India and Air India Express announced plans to operate a total of 20 flights across the GCC on March 30, including 10 additional services to and from the UAE. These include both scheduled and non-scheduled flights, subject to slot availability and regulatory approvals. The move is aimed at easing travel disruptions and assisting passengers affected by ongoing airspace constraints and regional instability.

UAE condemns attacks on civilian infrastructure

Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan strongly condemned the targeting of civilian infrastructure across the region, including schools, hospitals and energy facilities. He described such attacks as a serious violation of international law and stressed that they cannot be justified under any circumstances, particularly given their impact on civilian lives and essential services.

Gargash calls for guarantees from Iran

Anwar Gargash said any political resolution to the conflict must include clear guarantees from Iran to prevent future attacks on Gulf countries. He also emphasised the need for accountability and compensation for damage caused to civilian infrastructure, adding that long-term regional stability depends on firm commitments to non-aggression.

UAE resilience highlighted by global investor

Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris highlighted the UAE’s resilience and stability despite ongoing geopolitical challenges. He pointed to the country’s strong economic fundamentals, leadership and infrastructure as key factors maintaining investor confidence, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for business and growth even during periods of uncertainty.

Trump says Iran has undergone ‘regime change’

US President Donald Trump has said he is considering seizing Iran’s Kharg Island amid rising oil prices, while Iran has warned it may expand retaliatory strikes against US and Israeli targets. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s foreign minister announced that the country is preparing to host peace talks “in the coming days.” In Kuwait, an Indian worker was killed in an Iranian attack on a power and desalination plant.

COMMUNITY

Abu Dhabi debris kills 2, injures 3

Abu Dhabi authorities have responded to an incident in Sweihan Street, where falling debris from a successfully intercepted ballistic missile caused casualties and property damage.

The incident resulted in the deaths of two unidentified individuals, injuries to three others, and damage to several vehicles. Officials have confirmed that emergency services were promptly on the scene.

Authorities have urged the public to rely solely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading rumours or unverified reports.

UAE air defences intercept Iranian attacks

Thursday morning, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) confirmed that its air defence systems successfully intercepted incoming missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Iran. Authorities added that the situation remains under close monitoring and urged the public to rely only on official government sources for updates.

On 25 March 2026, UAE air defence systems engaged nine UAVs launched from Iran, part of ongoing regional hostilities. Since the onset of what the MOD described as blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have successfully intercepted 357 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,815 UAVs targeting the country.

Casualties and impact

The latest incident in Abu Dhabi adds to the toll, bringing total deaths to 11, with 2 killed and 3 injured today from falling debris after a successfully intercepted missile. These sustained attacks have previously resulted in casualties among both military personnel and civilians.

Three members of the UAE armed forces have been martyred in the line of duty, while six foreign nationals — including Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationals — were killed in separate incidents linked to missile and UAV debris.

A total of 166 people were injured, with cases ranging from minor to severe across multiple nationalities.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and reiterate that residents should follow official updates and avoid sharing unverified information.

COMMUNITY

AlUla Club Marks International Day of the Arabian Leopard

AlUla Club organized an awareness event yesterday to mark the International Day of the Arabian Leopard, with broad participation from residents of AlUla Governorate and visitors. The event is part of the club’s efforts to enhance environmental awareness and support wildlife protection initiatives.
The event aimed to educate youth and the community at large, and especially visitors to the governorate, about the importance of conserving biodiversity. It also sought to reinforce positive behaviors that support wildlife protection, underscoring the role of community initiatives in supporting national efforts to protect the environment, and sustain it.
— SPA