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Dubai, UAE, Abu Dhabi Attack News Today Highlights : The Middle East is experiencing escalating tensions as Iran launches drone and missile attacks on Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes. Saudi Arabia has intercepted dozens of drones, while the UAE has engaged multiple ballistic missiles and drones. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, with oil prices rising and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz severely impacted. Airports in the region, including Dubai and Kuwait, have been affected, with flights cancelled or suspended. The situation remains volatile, with governments issuing travel advisories and urging citizens to exercise caution.
The Middle East continues to bear the brunt of Iran war: Dubai Media Office on Sunday said sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas resulted from successful air defence interceptions. Saudi Defense Ministry said it intercepted seven drones in Riyadh and eastern region on Sunday. The Qatari Ministry of Defense late Saturday announced that it intercepted four ballistic missiles and a number of drones from Iran. Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence also reported intercepting two drones that targeted Ahmad Al-Jaber Air Base, resulting in material damage within the base’s vicinity. UAE’s foreign ministry condemned Iran’s attack on UAE Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
UAE orders arrests: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has ordered the arrest and immediate trial of 10 individuals of different nationalities for allegedly sharing misleading and fabricated videos on social media during heightened regional tensions linked to the war in Iran.
CHECK LATEST UPDATES ON THE US-ISRAEL VS IRAN WAR HERE
• Trump on Friday claimed that US forces “obliterated” military sites on Iran’s Kharg Island, home to the country’s main oil export terminal.
• Iran, for the first time has threatened to attack infrastructure in Middle East. On Saturday, Tehran advised evacuating three major ports in UAE that Tehran claimed were “legitimate targets” because the US military used them for attacks, AP reported.
• Air India and Air India Express on Sunday said it will curtail their ad‑hoc operations for 15 March 2026 following latest instructions from Airport Authorities in the UAE.
• The United States government is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information on key Iranian leaders, including the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani is among those listed.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Dubai-bound Emirates flight returns to Kochi following security incident, says airport official, according to news agency PTI.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Dubai police announces closure of Airport Road, Airport Tunnel, and Intersections at Cargo Village and Marrakech Street towards the airport.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Onboard Air Force One, US President Donald Trump said, "We had some very good results today in Iran, very strong results militarily. We are talking to countries about policing the Strait of Hormuz because they are the ones that rely on it for oil. The US gets very little oil from there, about 1 or 2 per cent, but China, for example, gets about 90 per cent of its oil through the strait of Hormuz. It would be good if other countries helped police it with us and we will work with them. Militarily, as far as I am concerned, we have essentially defeated Iran. They may have a little bit of fight back left, but not much. We have taken out their air force, navy and air defence. We attacked Kharg Island but left one small area where the oil pipelines come in. We can take that out within five minutes if we want, everything is locked and loaded and ready to go."
VIDEO | Onboard Air Force One: US President Donald Trump says, "We had some very good results today in Iran, very strong results militarily. We are talking to countries about policing the Strait of Hormuz because they are the ones that rely on it for oil. The US gets very little… pic.twitter.com/yS7PDzPDiO
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 16, 2026
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Dubai's Al Garhoud Bridge towards Casablanca Street is temporarily closed.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Emirates airline announced in a post on X the temporary suspension of flights to and from Dubai.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Dubai airport announces diversion of some flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsDubai Airports announces the diversion of some flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 16, 2026
Dubai, Abu Dhabi News Live Updates: Fire triggered by a drone attack near the Dubai Airport has been contained with no injuries reported, said the Dubai authorities.
“A drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport affected one of the fuel tanks,” the Dubai media office said on X.
Kuwait’s National Guard says it intercepted two drones in the past 24 hours.
Earlier, we reported that a drone strike on Kuwait’s Ali Al Salem base on Sunday struck a shelter used by the Italian Task Force Air and destroyed a remotely piloted aircraft stationed there.
No casualties were reported.
A drone attack hit Dubai International Airport earlier today, causing a fire near a fuel tank. Civil defence crews have since brought the blaze under control, with no injuries reported.
⚡️#breaking Fires erupt in Dubai following Iranian drone strikes pic.twitter.com/sBDs9JX809
— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) March 16, 2026
The Saudi Ministry of Defence has intercepted 37 drones in the country's east over the past hour and a half, though it's unclear where they were launched from.
Meanwhile, Iran's ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Alireza Enayati, denies Iran's involvement, stating, "Iran is not the party responsible for these attacks, and if Iran had carried them out, it would have announced it".
Dubai officials say they are currently responding to a fire in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport, after a "drone-related incident" affected a fuel tank.
According to an official post to X, authorities are working to bring the fire under control and taking "all necessary measures" to ensure public safety.
No injuries have been reported at this stage.
Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry says its forces have intercepted and destroyed six drones in the kingdom’s Eastern province.
The Ministry of Interior stresses getting info from official sources only and not sharing unverified info or rumors, to keep things accurate and safe.
The Ministry of Interior emphasises the importance of obtaining information exclusively from official sources and refraining from circulating rumours or publishing unverified information.#moiqatar pic.twitter.com/IOuhH405lf
— Ministry of Interior - Qatar (@MOI_QatarEn) March 15, 2026
In a new statement, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior says the security situation in the country is “stable”.
It also stresses “the importance of obtaining information exclusively from official sources and refraining from circulating rumours or publishing unverified information”.
The Ministry of Interior emphasises the importance of obtaining information exclusively from official sources and refraining from circulating rumours or publishing unverified information.#moiqatar pic.twitter.com/IOuhH405lf
— Ministry of Interior - Qatar (@MOI_QatarEn) March 15, 2026
Kuwait’s Defence Ministry said three drones targeted Kuwait International Airport, damaging the airport’s radar system. The statement added that the armed forces destroyed five additional drones during the incident.
(Al Jazeera)
SpiceJet is running special flights from Fujairah to Pune, Mumbai and Delhi on March 15-16 to help stranded Indians return home.
Read for detailed report: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/spicejet-special-flights-fujairah-pune-mumbai-delhi-stranded-indians-uae-10583474/
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty met Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani to discuss efforts to ease regional tensions and end the ongoing conflict involving Israel, the US and Iran, Egypt’s foreign ministry said, according to a report by Al Jazeera,
Abdelatty’s visit to Qatar is part of a wider Gulf tour aimed at coordinating diplomatic efforts with regional leaders.
Al Jazeera
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority are facilitating the return of about 500 Golden Visa holders and residents stranded abroad due to regional disruptions and airspace closures, said MoFA on its official website.
The statement said that the returns are being coordinated through air and land entry points as part of ongoing evacuation and support efforts.
Authorities reaffirmed that ensuring the safety and wellbeing of citizens, residents and visitors remains a top priority during the ongoing regional developments.
UAE air defences intercepted four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran on March 15, the Ministry of Defence said in an official announcement on its social media handle X.
Since the start of the attacks, UAE forces have intercepted 298 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,606 drones, the ministry said, adding that the attacks have caused 6 deaths and 142 "minor to moderate" injuries among multiple nationalities.
The defence ministry affirmed it remains fully prepared to counter threats and protect the country’s security and sovereignty.
الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع 4 صواريخ باليستية و 6 طائرات مسيرة.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 15, 2026
تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية (15 مارس 2026) مع 4 صواريخ باليستية، و 6 طائرات مسيرة قادمة من إيران.
ومنذ بدء الاعتداءات الإيرانية السافرة تعاملت الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية مع 298 صاروخاً باليستياً، و… pic.twitter.com/AFBAt2NPl8
Oil loading operations at the UAE’s Fujairah terminal have resumed after a drone attack and fire disrupted activities, though it is unclear if operations are fully normal, reported news agency Reuters.
The ongoing US-Iran war has already reduced Middle Eastern oil production by more than 7 million barrels per day, raising concerns about further supply disruptions.
(With inputs from Reuters)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly facing pressure from members of the security cabinet and officials in his office to make a live appearance to dispel rumors about his death or injury, according to Tasnim News Agency.
Hebrew media sources cited by Tasnim said Netanyahu has been urged to speak publicly on March 15 to address speculation about his condition and whereabouts.
(Tasnim News Agency)
Gulf Air has expanded temporary operations through King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, opening bookings for commercial flights to London, Mumbai and Bangkok for travel on March 15-16.
The airline said passengers can book tickets through its website or mobile app, while transport between Bahrain and Dammam will be arranged for travellers with confirmed bookings, in an announcement made on its official social media handle X.
Gulf Air added it will assist travellers with Saudi transit visas, as flights to and from Bahrain International Airport remain suspended until the reopening of Bahrain’s airspace.
Open for bookings: Gulf Air commercial flights from DMM to LHR, BOM and BKK: https://t.co/Vjb5AqIn5i pic.twitter.com/xA0dh5woUM
— Gulf Air (@GulfAir) March 15, 2026
Bahrain said its air defences have intercepted 125 missiles and 211 drones since the war with Iran began, reported Al Jazeera confirming that at least one person has been killed in the attacks.
(Al Jazeera)
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it will intensify efforts to eliminate Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the escalating conflict, according to Iranian Tasnim News Agency.
In a statement, the IRGC said operations would continue if the "criminal Zionist" and "child-killer" Netanyahu is still alive, as part of retaliation for attacks on Iran, the news agency reported.
The group also claimed to have carried out missile and drone strikes on Israeli targets and several US bases in the region.
(With inputs from Tasnim News Agency)
Emirates is allowing passengers to rebook flights online within 72 hours of departure as it operates limited services amid regional disruptions.
Travellers can manage bookings through the airline’s website or mobile app to select new dates and update travel plans without visiting the airport.
The airline said it is operating limited flights as regional airspace gradually reopens and advised passengers to regularly check flight status and updates.
(With inputs from Gulf News)
You can now amend bookings and rebook flights online within 72 hours of your original departure date by visiting https://t.co/5naa6fHRxU or “Manage Your Booking” on the Emirates app.
— Emirates Support (@EmiratesSupport) March 15, 2026
If you wish to rebook a flight earlier than 72 hours before departure, please reach out to us… pic.twitter.com/LsSaKMmM4b
World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has confirmed that 14 health workers were killed in southern Lebanon, calling the incident a “tragic development in the escalating Middle East crisis.”
In a statement shared on X on Saturday, Tedros said that 12 medical workers — including doctors, nurses and paramedics — died in a strike on the Bourj Qalaouiyeh primary healthcare centre late on Friday night.
He added that the deaths occurred shortly after another attack earlier the same day, in which two paramedics were killed when a health facility in Al Sowana came under fire.
The killings in the last 24 hours of 14 health workers in southern #lebanon mark a tragic development in the escalating Middle East crisis.@WHO has confirmed that 12 doctors, paramedics and nurses were killed in a strike late last night on the Bourj Qalaouiyeh primary… pic.twitter.com/SXazI9XBai
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) March 14, 2026
Saudi Arabia on Sunday said it intercepted 10 drones in the areas surrounding Riyadh and the eastern regions of the country.
#saudi Air Defense Forces intercepted, destroyed 10 drones in Riyadh & Eastern Regions, MoD spokesperson Maj.-Gen. Staff Turki Al-Maliki said.https://t.co/CpJ5qnxIJ5#kuna pic.twitter.com/du2kMrAmKI
— Kuwait News Agency - English Feed (@kuna_en) March 15, 2026
Shortly afterwards, the IRGC said that the attack had nothing to do with Iran.
“This attack has no connection to the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Saudi government should seek to discover the origin of the attacks,” it said in a statement
The Central Board of Secondary Examination has issued a new circular cancelling class XII Board exams in the Middle East.
Important Update on CBSE Class XII Exams in Middle East Countries
— CBSE HQ (@cbseindia29) March 15, 2026
CBSE has issued Circular -6 regarding cancellation of Board Exams of Class XII in Middle East countries
See attachment for further details pic.twitter.com/FfZc5vKMHT
Air India and Air India Express on Sunday said it will curtail their ad‑hoc operations for 15 March 2026 following latest instructions from Airport Authorities in the UAE.
Air India: Operating one Delhi–Dubai return flight; four of the five planned Dubai flights are cancelled.
Air India Express: Operating one Delhi–Dubai return flight; five of six Dubai flights are cancelled.
Abu Dhabi: All five Air India Express flights cancelled.
Sharjah: Air India Express plans to operate flights to Delhi, Kannur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram.
Ras Al Khaimah: Air India Express will operate Ras Al Khaimah–Kozhikode and Ras Al Khaimah–Kochi flights.
#importantupdate
— Air India (@airindia) March 14, 2026
In view of the latest instructions from Airport Authorities in the UAE, Air India and Air India Express are compelled to curtail their ad‑hoc operations for 15 March 2026.
For details read: https://t.co/jV0rbj8wIR
UAE’s foreign ministry condemned Iran’s attack on UAE Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Kuwait’s Ministry of Defence also reported intercepting two drones that targeted Ahmad Al-Jaber Air Base, resulting in material damage within the base’s vicinity.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsMinistry of Defense: #kuwait's air defense systems have detected and dealt with two drones that targeted Ahmad Al-Jaber Air Base, resulting in material damage within the base's vicinityhttps://t.co/bWa3StAfXg#kuna pic.twitter.com/3uthAG6KqE
— Kuwait News Agency - English Feed (@kuna_en) March 14, 2026
Saudi Defense Ministry said it intercepted seven drones in Riyadh and eastern region on Sunday.
المتحدث الرسمي لـ #_: اعتراض وتدمير 7 مسيّرات في منطقتي الرياض والشرقية. pic.twitter.com/0KmMEyIcIK
— وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) March 15, 2026
Dubai Media Office on Sunday said sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas resulted from successful air defence interceptions.
Dubai authorities confirm that the sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas resulted from successful air defence interceptions.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 14, 2026
Formula One's governing body, FIA, on Saturday said the Grands Prix races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabian will not take place in April due to the ongoing situation in Middle East.
Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April.#fia #f1 pic.twitter.com/gwHHDHkOdy
— FIA (@fia) March 14, 2026
Taking to X, the body said that the FIA Formula 2, FIa Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds will not not take place as per their scheuled times.
A Saudi Ministry of Defense spokesman said on Thursday that three drones were successfully intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Province.
المتحدث الرسمي لـ #_: اعتراض وتدمير 3 مسيّرات في المنطقة الشرقية. pic.twitter.com/Gbj5wPd0D1
— وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) March 15, 2026
IndiGo has announced changes in its flight schedule due to restricted operations in Dubai.
Update: Due to the evolving situation in Middle East, flight operations have been further restricted in Dubai, leading to changes in flight schedules.
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) March 14, 2026
Customers travelling to/from Dubai are requested to check their flight status at https://t.co/ll3K8Px1Ht before leaving for the… https://t.co/j3mr7nyxCv
Dubai authorities have confirmed that the loud sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas were due to successful air defence interceptions. The Dubai Media Office stated that the sounds resulted from the country's defence systems intercepting incoming threats, and there's no cause for concern.
Dubai authorities confirm that the sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas resulted from successful air defence interceptions.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 14, 2026
The Dubai Media Office has attributed sounds heard in Marina and Al Sufouh areas to routine maintenance work, urging residents to ignore speculation. The loud noises sparked concerns, but authorities assure it's a normal operation.
Iran on Saturday threatened for the first time to attack infrastructure of a neighboring country, urging people to evacuate three major ports in the United Arab Emirates that Tehran claimed were “legitimate targets” because the US military used them for attacks.
The escalation sharpened global economic worries as tensions mount around the Strait of Hormuz, a route for about one-fifth of the world’s oil where shipping has effectively ground to a halt.
A Saudi Ministry of Defense spokesman said on Saturday that a drone was successfully intercepted and destroyed in the Eastern Province.
المتحدث الرسمي لـ #_: اعتراض وتدمير مسيّرة في المنطقة الشرقية. pic.twitter.com/m4F43mrctu
— وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) March 14, 2026
The United Arab Emirates has strongly rejected Iran's claims that the US attack on Kharg Island, a crucial oil hub handling 90% of Iran's exports, was launched from the Gulf state.
UAE's diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash accused Iran of "moral bankruptcy", stating that the country prioritizes reason and logic while defending itself. He criticized Iran's policy as confused, leading to its isolation, and emphasized the UAE's commitment to restraint and regional stability.
Formula 1 has announced that the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April due to the war.
The announcement had been expected, and the statement from the Liberty media-owned sport governing body, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), said the races will not be replaced on the calendar next month.
“While alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made in April,” the statement said.
The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April
— Formula 1 (@F1) March 14, 2026
Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East the Grands Prix, alongside F2, F3, and F1 Academy rounds, will not take place as scheduled
While alternatives were considered, no substitutions will be made in… pic.twitter.com/wsgXUR2FKn
In a short statement, the ministry said two drones had been intercepted and destroyed in the kingdom’s Eastern province.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said about 6,000 UAE nationals and their companions have been evacuated from several countries amid ongoing regional tensions.
Authorities said the evacuation was carried out through coordinated land and air operations as part of the country’s emergency response system.
Officials added that some flights also brought back residents stranded abroad due to airspace closures, while urging UAE citizens overseas to register with the government’s “Twajudi” service for assistance during emergencies.
The authorities made this statement on the official website of UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and also briefed the same on a post on its official X handle.
In response to ongoing regional developments… MoFA and NCEMA evacuate around 6,000 UAE Nationals and ensure their safe return homehttps://t.co/F3LvoXA0Lr pic.twitter.com/YZaNctOcZ3
— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) March 14, 2026
IndiGo has suspended flights to seven Middle East destinations including Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain and Sharjah till March 28 due to regional conflict and airspace disruptions.
The airline said it is adjusting operations due to geopolitical risks, airspace restrictions and rising fuel and insurance costs while maintaining limited connectivity with about 252 weekly flights to and from the region between March 16 and 28.
In a statement on Saturday, the airline said, "As part of these necessary network adjustments, planned operations to Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah will remain suspended till 28 March 2026," it said.
Separately, Air India and Air India Express said they will operate 72 scheduled and non-scheduled flights to and from West Asia on March 15, subject to operational conditions.
(With inputs from PTI)
Five countries including the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Italy and Ukraine have stepped up defence support to the UAE amid escalating tensions with Iran.
The UK has deployed additional aircraft, helicopters and counter-drone specialists in the region, while France has sent Rafale fighter jets to help protect bases in the UAE.
Ukraine has dispatched air defence teams to Gulf states, while Australia plans to deploy a surveillance aircraft and provide missiles. Italy has also pledged air-defence assistance.
(With inputs from Khaleej Times)
The Indian Embassy in Doha has issued guidelines for nationals travelling to India via the Qatar-Saudi Arabia land border, advising them to secure transit visas and confirmed onward flights.
The embassy said travellers must obtain necessary approvals in advance and ensure they carry valid passports, approved transit visas and confirmed flight tickets from Riyadh or Dammam to India.
The embassy advised travellers to complete immigration procedures at the border and reach the crossing between 6 am and 8 pm to ensure smooth transit.
Important advisoryA drone targeted the UAE Consulate in Erbil, Iraq, security sources said, cited by news agency Reuters.
(Reuters)
UAE adviser Anwar Gargash said Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Gulf states show “military impotence”, “moral bankruptcy” and urged Tehran to stop targeting neighbouring countries, reported Al Jazeera.
Gargash added that targeting neighbouring Arab states instead of confronting the US and Israel reflects Iran’s political isolation.
(With inputs from Al Jazeera)
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways of India said in a press briefing Saturday that all its seafarers in the Persian Gulf are safe, with two LPG carriers crossing the Strait of Hormuz and heading to India with 92,700 tonnes of LPG.
"No untoward incidents have been reported in the past 24 hours", Sinha said, adding that two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, 'Shivalik' and 'Nanda Devi', safely transited the Strait of Hormuz and are heading to India, expected to reach Mundra and Kandla on March 16 and 17.
Sinha also said that 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf with a total of 611 Indian seafarers onboard.
ANI
#watch | Delhi: Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Shipping Ministry, GoI says, "All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region are safe, and no untoward incidents involving them have been reported over the last 24 hours. There were 24 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, situated to… pic.twitter.com/YY9DWZhy9J
— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026
Iranian Tasnim News Agency warned residents in the UAE to evacuate areas near Jebel Ali, Khalifa and Fujairah ports, calling them potential targets due to alleged US military presence.
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters spokesperson said it plans to target missile launch sites used by US forces in several UAE cities, accusing them of launching attacks on Iranian islands from Emirati ports and facilities. Iran said it considers such strikes a “legitimate right” to defend its sovereignty, the repost said.
(With inputs from Tasnim News Agency)
The UAE has condemned a drone attack targeting its Consulate General in Iraqi Kurdistan, which injured two security personnel and caused damage to the building.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said attacks on diplomatic missions violate international law, including the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The UAE described the incident as a dangerous escalation that threatens regional security and stability.
(With inputs from Khaleej Times)
Iran thanked Sri Lanka for assisting in rescuing sailors after the US torpedo attack on the Dena destroyer off Sri Lanka’s coast, according to Tasnim News Agency.
During a phone call with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Araghchi also expressed gratitude for Colombo’s assistance in repatriating the remains of 84 sailors killed in the attack.
The two ministers also discussed the relationship between Iran and Sri Lanka, the news agency reported.
(With inputs from Tasnim News Agency)
IndiGo has suspended flights to Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, Dammam, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah until March 28 due to regional disruptions, according to news agency Reuters.
The move comes amid ongoing regional tensions and airspace disruptions affecting aviation across parts of West Asia.
Earlier, the airline company had also stated of gradually restoring flights to parts of the Middle East and select European routes, reopening bookings for services scheduled between March 16 and March 28 on its official X handle.
(With inputs from Reuters)
UAE air defences intercepted nine ballistic missiles and 33 drones launched from Iran on March 14, with no new injuries reported, the defence ministry said in a statement on its official X handle on Saturday.
Since the conflict began, UAE forces have intercepted 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and about 1,600 drones launched from Iran, the post read. These attacks have caused 6 deaths and 141 "minor to moderate injuries", the statement added.
The defence ministry said it remains fully prepared to counter any threats and protect the UAE’s sovereignty, security and national interests.
UAE air defences engage 9 ballistic missiles, 33 UAVs.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) March 14, 2026
The UAE air defence systems on 14th March engaged 9 ballistic missiles and 33 UAVs launched from Iran.
Since the onsets of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 294 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise… pic.twitter.com/22bLu5vdHH
Iran’s navy claims it launched multiple waves of attacks on US bases in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, targeting Patriot radar systems, planes and aircraft fuel storage tanks.
IRGC Navy chief Admiral Alireza Tangsiri said to Iranian media that Iranian naval forces launched “several consecutive waves” of attacks against US forces in three military bases in the region: Al Dhafra base in Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Isa base in Bahrain.
(Al Jazeera)
Citibank branches in Dubai and Bahrain’s capital Manama were targeted by unidentified drones amid escalating regional tensions, according to reports cited by Iranian Tasnim News Agency.
Following the incident in Dubai’s financial district, some international banks reportedly evacuated staff and shifted parts of their operations to remote work due to security concerns.
Similar drone and missile attack reports emerged from Manama, a key financial hub and host to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet. Analysts warn that attacks on financial centres could signal an expansion of the conflict into economic infrastructure.
(Tasnim News Agency)
The UAE has waived visa overstay fines for travellers stranded due to flight disruptions, prompting many visitors to delay visa extensions while waiting for normal flights to resume.
Travel agents say visa renewal inquiries have dropped as visitors wait for flights to resume amid high ticket prices. The waiver allows travellers to stay without penalties if visas expire, though standard fees still apply for those who choose to extend or renew their visas.
(Khaleej Times)
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that US “hideouts” in the United Arab Emirates could become legitimate targets for Iran following American strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island.
In a statement carried by Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, as reported by Al Jazeera, the IRGC said it reserved the right to target the origin of US missile attacks, including shipping ports, docks and locations where American forces are stationed in the UAE.
The group also urged residents to stay away from ports, docks and US military areas in the UAE to avoid harm.
(Al Jazeera)
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claims the US is now urging countries, including India, to buy Russian oil despite earlier pressuring them to halt imports.
In a post on X, Araghchi said Washington had spent months pushing India to stop buying Russian crude but had changed its stance after the war with Iran escalated. The comments came after the US issued a 30-day waiver on March 5 allowing India to purchase Russian oil, amid tensions linked to the conflict involving Iran.
Araghchi also criticised Western support for military action against Iran, calling the war “illegal” and accusing European countries of backing it to gain US support against Russia.
(With inputs from PTI)
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsThe U.S. spent months on bullying India into ending oil imports from Russia. After two weeks of war with Iran, White House is now begging the world—incl India—to buy Russian crude.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) March 13, 2026
Europe thought backing illegal war on Iran would win U.S. support against Russia.
Pathetic. pic.twitter.com/fbkrXpXa9P
A fire broke out in Fujairah after debris from a drone fell during an interception, UAE's Fujairah Media Office reported, adding that no injuries were reported.
(Reuters)
Akasa Air will levy a fuel surcharge ranging from ₹199 to ₹1,300 on domestic and international flight tickets from March 15 due to rising aviation turbine fuel prices amid West Asia tensions.
The airline said the surcharge will apply to bookings made from March 15 and will vary depending on the flight duration.
The move follows a spike in jet fuel prices linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. Other airlines including Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo have already introduced similar surcharges.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsImportant update pic.twitter.com/kdBhX3aCXW
— Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) March 14, 2026
Just days after Dubai's Global Village announced that it will be closed until further notice, the popular family destination on Saturday said it cancelled its fireworks and drone shows scheduled for Eid Al Fitr this year, Khaleej Times reported.
"Global Village is following the country-wide government directives of no fireworks and drone shows," it said in a statement.
Some oil loading operations in the port of UAE's Fujairah, outside the Strait of Hormuz, have been suspended after a drone attack and fire on Saturday morning, Reuters reported citing Bloomberg News.
Due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, following US and Israeli attacks on Iran, thousands of passengers across the region have been left stranded. Airlines are consistently issuing updates and advisories to keep passengers updated and informed.
Here’s what to expect as the Iran war spills over to Day 15.
Air Canada has announced that its Toronto-Dubai flights will remain cancelled until at least May 1 due to the ongoing unrest in the Middle East.
In a statement posted on social media, the airline said it plans to gradually reintroduce the service once flights can safely resume. In the meantime, Air Canada said it is adding more capacity on its route to provide travellers with alternative options for travel to Canada.
US President Donald Trump said US forces had obliterated targets on Iran’s Kharg Island, which houses the country’s main oil export terminal.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker warned that the strikes would provoke a new level of retaliation.
A US official said 2,500 additional Marines and an amphibious assault ship are being deployed to the Middle East as the conflict with Iran enters its second week.
Iran’s state-affiliated Fars News Agency said no oil infrastructure was damaged in the US strikes on Kharg Island, CNN reported.
United States on Friday gave a summary of its Operation Epic Fury on Iran.
Taking to X, the official handle of Rapid Response wrote:
OPERATION EPIC FURY:
Ballistic missile attacks down 90%.
Drone attacks down 95%.
6,000+ targets struck.
90+ Iranian vessels destroyed.
Iran's entire ballistic missile capacity functionally destroyed.
Iranian navy assessed as combat ineffective.
Overwhelming air dominance over Iran.
OPERATION EPIC FURY:
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 13, 2026
— Ballistic missile attacks down 90%.
— Drone attacks down 95%.
— 6,000+ targets struck.
— 90+ Iranian vessels destroyed.
— Iran's entire ballistic missile capacity functionally destroyed.
— Iranian navy assessed as combat ineffective.
— Overwhelming…
The US Department of State on Friday said that over 50,000 Americans have returned safely to the US from Middle East.
"Personnel are working 24/7 to help Americans depart the Middle East," the department said in a post on X.
The department added that nearly 34,000 Americans have been directly assisted by the 24/7 Task Force.
It urged citizens to call on +1-202-501-4444 if assistance is needed.
.@StateDept personnel are working 24/7 to help Americans depart the Middle East.
— Tommy Pigott (@StateDeputySpox) March 13, 2026
• Over 50,000 Americans have safely returned to the U.S.
• Over 4 dozen U.S. charter flights have brought Americans home
• Nearly 34,000 Americans have been directly assisted by our 24/7 Task… pic.twitter.com/KRBQ0eP1lq
US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq was attacked Saturday, Iranian state media reported.
🎥 انهدام سامانۀ پدافندی سفارت آمریکا در بغداد
— خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) March 14, 2026
منابع عراقی اعلام کردند که رادار سفارت آمریکا در بغداد مورد هدف یک پهپاد انتحاری قرار گرفته است. pic.twitter.com/hGsMJc5EzJ
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defense Saturday said it intercepted a drone in the eastern region.
المتحدث الرسمي لـ #_: اعتراض وتدمير مسيّرة في المنطقة الشرقية. pic.twitter.com/AjGGKOhoRw
— وزارة الدفاع (@modgovksa) March 14, 2026
Authorities in Dubai have confirmed that the incident caused by debris from a successful interception, which struck the facade of a building in central Dubai, has been fully contained, adding that no fires or injuries were reported.
Authorities confirmed that the incident caused by debris from a successful interception, which struck the façade of a building in central Dubai, has been fully contained. No fire occurred and no injuries were reported.
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 14, 2026
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