Dubai expats leave as Iran strikes raise tensions in the UAE

Escalating conflict in the Middle East following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran has begun to affect life in the Gulf, with Dubai’s large expatriate community facing growing uncertainty. After Iran launched waves of drones and missiles across the region, including toward the United Arab Emirates, some foreign workers and tourists chose to leave the country amid security concerns.

According to Emirati authorities, Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones toward the UAE starting on February 28, 2026, as part of a broader retaliation across the region. Air defense systems intercepted most of the incoming threats, though falling debris and limited impacts on the ground caused casualties and damage in some areas.

While a number of expatriates departed temporarily, many residents have decided to remain in Dubai, saying that daily routines largely continue. Shopping malls, offices and restaurants remain open, but frequent air defense activity and official safety alerts have created an atmosphere residents describe as "functioning but tense."

The situation is being closely watched by investors and businesses. Around 90% of the UAE’s population consists of expatriates, and Dubai’s economy relies heavily on tourism, finance and international professionals. Any prolonged security concerns or outflow of foreign residents could therefore affect sectors such as real estate, travel and regional investment flows.