UAE President Declares Nation “Now in a Time of War” Amidst Escalating Iranian Aggression

“The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh; we are not easy prey.” – UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

UAE President Declares Nation “Now in a Time of War” Amidst Escalating Iranian Aggression

By Paul V. Young – TheNATIONWEEK.com | March 9, 2026

ABU DHABI, UAE – In a momentous and unequivocal declaration, United Arab Emirates (UAE) President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has officially announced that the nation is now “in a time of war.”

This stark pronouncement, delivered amidst a worrying escalation of regional hostilities and a surge in reported Iranian-linked aggression, signals a critical shift in the Gulf’s geopolitical landscape.

President Mohamed bin Zayed’s assertive statement came during a solemn visit to individuals injured in recent attacks at an Abu Dhabi hospital on Saturday. Speaking to Abu Dhabi TV, he underscored the UAE’s profound resilience and unwavering defiance, sending a clear message to adversaries: “The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh; we are not easy prey.”

He further cautioned against underestimating the nation’s resolve, adding, “The UAE is attractive, the UAE is beautiful, a role model, but I tell them not to be misled.”

Unprecedented Aggression and National Resolve

This declaration follows a week of intensified attacks targeting the UAE and other Gulf states, widely believed to be a direct response to recent U.S.-Israeli military actions in the region.

The UAE has reported a significantly higher frequency of these incidents, with its sophisticated air defense systems reportedly intercepting approximately 200 missiles, 1,100 drones, and several cruise missiles to date.

Official reports tragically confirm both casualties and substantial material damage, providing grim evidence of the ongoing aggression. A particularly concerning incident on March 7, 2024, involving a drone crash observed in the immediate vicinity of Dubai International Airport, has significantly amplified concerns about the security of vital global transportation and economic hubs.

President Mohamed bin Zayed’s comments mark his first public address since this recent intensification of strikes, emphasizing the UAE’s steadfast determination to protect all its citizens and residents.

“We will carry out our duty towards our country, our people, and our residents who are also part of our family,” he affirmed, reiterating the commitment to safeguard everyone within the nation’s borders, which comprise seven emirates, including Dubai. He promised, “I promise everyone we will emerge stronger than we were.”

A Nation Mobilized: Upholding Sovereignty and Safeguarding All

The President’s forceful declaration was made during a poignant visit to areas directly impacted by the recent attacks. Addressing a nation on edge, he delivered an unequivocal message: “Defending the homeland is the most important duty.”

This statement reiterated the UAE’s unshakeable commitment to protecting its populace, critical infrastructure, and territorial integrity from any and all external threats, regardless of their origin or method.

In a particularly moving address, the President lauded the exemplary courage, unwavering resolve, and profound sense of honor demonstrated by Emirati citizens in fulfilling their national duties.

He extended a powerful message of reassurance and solidarity to the considerable expatriate community residing within the UAE’s borders, affirming their status as cherished guests and underscoring the state’s paramount responsibility for their protection and well-being in these challenging times.

An Unyielding Defense: A Clear Warning to Adversaries

President Mohamed bin Zayed’s declaration was not merely an internal rallying cry but also a stern and unambiguous warning to potential aggressors.

Firmly asserting the UAE’s formidable defense capabilities, he declared, “The country is not an easy target, and enemies must realize this.”

This statement sends a clear message regarding the nation’s steadfast resolve and its readiness to respond decisively and proportionately to any further provocations.

This dramatic escalation follows a disturbing pattern of heightened tensions across the broader Middle East, particularly sparked by U.S.-Israeli actions against Iran.

UAE territories have increasingly become targets of attacks linked directly or indirectly to Iranian proxies and capabilities, demanding a decisive response.

Abu Dhabi’s Unwavering Resolve: A Strategic Shift

In the wake of these deeply troubling developments, official channels in Abu Dhabi have consistently reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to undertaking all necessary measures to preserve its territorial integrity and to ensure the safety and security of its populace.

This formal declaration of a “time of war” signifies far more than rhetoric; it marks a profound strategic shift. This posture potentially paves the way for a more robust, direct, and multi-faceted response to perceived threats, fundamentally altering the calculus for regional actors and demanding intense international scrutiny.

Key Highlights of the UAE’s Declaration of a “Time of War”

Official Declaration:

• UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan formally declares the nation to be “in a time of war” amidst escalating regional aggression.

Response to Sustained Attacks:

• The declaration is a direct consequence of a relentless wave of sophisticated missile and drone strikes, causing casualties and significant material damage.

Global Infrastructure Targeted:

• Documented incidents include severe disruptions at the bustling Dubai International Airport, raising profound concerns about the security of vital global transportation and economic hubs.

National Unity and Defense:

• President Al Nahyan emphasizes the sacred duty to defend the homeland, commending Emirati citizens for their valor and unwavering honor.

Assurance for Expatriates:

• A critical message of reassurance and full protection has been extended to the significant foreign population residing within the UAE’s borders.

Potent Deterrent Message:

• A clear and stern warning has been issued to potential adversaries regarding the UAE’s formidable defense capabilities and its unwavering readiness to act.

Unwavering Commitment to Sovereignty:

• Official Abu Dhabi channels reaffirm a steadfast commitment to employing all necessary measures to preserve national territorial integrity and ensure comprehensive security.

Profound Regional and Global Implications:

• This declaration signifies a significant escalation in Middle East tensions, carrying potentially far-reaching global implications for security, economics, and geopolitics.