UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivered an emotional message of reassurance and unity after visiting people injured during recent regional tensions, urging residents to forgive any shortcomings while pledging that the country will defend itself and protect everyone living within its borders.
The remarks were broadcast on Abu Dhabi TV, marking his first public message after a series of missile and drone interceptions linked to the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The address came amid rising anxiety across the Gulf after falling debris from aerial interceptions caused damage in parts of Dubai and resulted in at least one fatality. The president emphasised national resilience, describing the UAE as strong and determined during difficult times, while assuring citizens and residents that the government would continue to protect the nation and ensure public safety.
Visit to injured victims
Before delivering the message, Sheikh Mohamed visited patients injured during the recent incidents at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi.
During the visit, he spoke with victims and medical staff, wishing the injured a speedy recovery and thanking doctors and healthcare workers responding to the crisis. Images from the hospital showed the president speaking directly with patients and offering words of encouragement to their families.
Officials said the visit reflected the leadership’s commitment to supporting those affected and ensuring that emergency and healthcare systems remain fully prepared.
Message of resilience
In his televised address, Sheikh Mohamed acknowledged that the regional situation had created uncertainty and concern among the public. He urged people across the UAE to remain calm and united, asking residents to forgive any shortcomings as authorities manage the situation.
“The UAE is strong and resilient,” he said, adding that the country is “no easy prey” for those who threaten its security.
The president also stressed that the government’s responsibility extends not only to Emirati citizens but also to the millions of expatriates who live and work in the country.
“Our residents are part of our family,” he said, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to protecting everyone within its borders.
Rising tensions in the Gulf
The message came during one of the most volatile periods in the Middle East in recent years. The crisis intensified after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, prompting Iran to launch waves of missiles and drones across the region.
Several Gulf countries, including the UAE, activated air defence systems to intercept incoming projectiles. Although most threats were neutralised, falling debris from interceptions caused damage in parts of Dubai.
Fragments struck a residential building in Dubai Marina and a vehicle in Al Barsha, where a Pakistani driver was killed.
UAE’s security response
Authorities say the UAE has deployed advanced air defence systems designed to detect and intercept missiles and drones before they reach populated areas. These systems rely on radar tracking networks, interceptor missiles and coordinated military response units operating around the clock.
Officials said the defences have successfully intercepted most incoming threats during the crisis.
At the same time, residents have received public safety alerts advising them to remain indoors temporarily during interception operations to reduce the risks posed by falling debris.
A call for unity
Beyond security measures, the president’s message emphasised unity and social cohesion in a country home to more than 200 nationalities.
Analysts said Sheikh Mohamed’s appeal for forgiveness and patience was a call for understanding as authorities navigate a complex and evolving regional crisis.
Across the UAE, the remarks quickly spread on television and social media, prompting expressions of support from residents. Many praised the president’s hospital visit and his reassurance during a period of heightened tension.
For expatriates in particular, his statement that residents are “part of the family” resonated strongly, reinforcing the UAE’s message of inclusivity.
While the country continues to monitor developments in the wider Middle East conflict, officials say security agencies, emergency services and healthcare providers remain on high alert as diplomatic efforts continue across the region to prevent further escalation.
