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Dubai is working hard to maintain its reputation as a safe haven despite Iran’s recent attacks. Influencers are showing support for the government’s stance while authorities crack down on false news sharing. Historically, the Gulf region was considered a secure refuge in a volatile Middle East, with the UAE promoting itself as the safest nation with minimal crime.
That perception has now been challenged. Iran launched over 1,800 missiles and drones at the Emirates—more than any other country targeted by Tehran—disrupting its peaceful image, even though most of the projectiles were intercepted by air defenses. Ebraheem Alsamadi, a Kuwaiti-American star from “Dubai Bling,” stated in a video that he intends to stay in the UAE despite U.S. consular advice, asserting it remains “the safest country in the world” and emphasizing his commitment: “This has been my home for 16 years, and I won’t leave it in 16 seconds. I will stand by this country as it has stood by me.”
Dubai’s official Instagram account shared a heartfelt song vowing, “Dubai is safe, and will always be safe.” Safety has long been a core part of the city’s identity. Geopolitical analyst Ryan Bohl noted that officials are now reconsidering how to adapt their security strategies amidst growing insecurity, but for now, they continue with familiar approaches. The UAE also hopes the conflict will be swift enough so that residents and visitors won’t associate the country with war, minimizing its impact on daily life and the economy.
Nearly 90% of the UAE’s residents are foreigners—a vital workforce crucial for shifting the economy from oil dependency toward tourism and services. Retaining foreign talent is critical for these efforts. Tourism, highly sensitive to security concerns, faces challenges, but people from different parts of the world have varying levels of risk tolerance, Bohl explained.
In response, officials emphasize normalcy during this period. Early in the conflict, President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was seen walking through Dubai Mall with a large entourage, signaling confidence. Meanwhile, places like Dubai Mall and JBR beach have seen foot traffic decline as some tourists leave the country. Emaar, which operates key shopping centers, has warned retailers against closing or reducing hours, stating that such actions could harm the country’s reputation and economic stability.
Images of drone strikes and smoke are widely circulated, and some fleeing tourists have recounted escaping Dubai under attack to international media. Dubai police have urged people not to spread rumors or share images of sensitive sites to prevent misinformation. Several Gulf nations have taken strict measures—Qatar has arrested over 300 individuals for disseminating misleading videos.
The UAE’s attorney general has ordered arrests and trials for those sharing videos of interceptions or fabricated content. Recently, many businesses evacuated Dubai’s financial district amid threats from Iran targeting U.S. and Israeli-linked economic interests. As Dubai cannot solely depend on oil revenues, it is crucial to demonstrate that it remains a secure environment for investments and tourism.
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