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How the UAE is managing risk amid regional escalation

With emergency frameworks activated and institutions aligned, officials detail the measures shaping daily life across aviation, education, and digital security

How the UAE is managing risk amid regional escalation
[Source photo: Krishna Prasad/Fast Company Middle East]

Following Iranian missile strikes that began on Saturday, February 28, the UAE has entered a state of critical preparedness. While the situation continues to evolve, federal and local authorities have activated emergency protocols designed to maintain public safety, operational continuity, and information clarity.

As Monday marks the third day of the US–Israel conflict with Iran, here’s what residents need to understand: what’s happening, how institutions are responding, and how to navigate the information landscape responsibly.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, said the UAE has fully activated its national emergency systems, elevated operational readiness, and maintained essential services amid ongoing developments.

He emphasized that authorities have coordinated closely and acted in line with national preparedness standards, praising field teams for their discipline and swift response.

Al Neyadi also commended citizens and residents for their cooperation, expressing confidence that the country will emerge stronger and more resilient under the leadership’s vision and strong institutional framework.

FOR RESIDENTS: WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU

The UAE’s national emergency framework has been fully activated, with readiness levels elevated across authorities.

Essential services remain operational, and disruptions are being actively managed.

Government entities are coordinating closely to ensure a swift, organized response.

Field teams are operating with high preparedness and professionalism.

Officials have praised the public’s awareness and cooperation, underscoring the importance of staying informed and aligned with official guidance.

Authorities remain confident the country will navigate this period with resilience and stability.

FOR TRAVELERS: AIRLINES EXTEND SUSPENSIONS AMID REGIONAL AIRSPACE CLOSURES 

Emirates and flydubai have extended the temporary suspension of flights to and from Dubai until 3:00 pm Tuesday due to multiple regional airspace closures.

flydubai said it is coordinating with relevant authorities to adjust its schedule and is allowing passengers travelling within the next 72 hours to rebook to the same destination within 20 days of their original date.

Emirates advised affected customers who booked through the airline to contact the airline directly, or to reach out to their travel agents. Travellers with bookings up to March 5 may rebook or request refunds. 

Both airlines urged passengers to check official channels for the latest updates before heading to the airport.

DUBAI POLICE WARNS OF POTENTIAL SCAMS 

Dubai Police has warned residents about fraudsters posing as officials from a fake “Dubai Crisis Management” department to steal sensitive information.

Scammers are seeking UAE Pass login details and Emirates ID data, which could be used for SIM swap fraud and unauthorised access to bank accounts. Authorities stressed they never request confidential information or verification codes by phone or text.

Residents are urged not to share personal or banking details and to report suspicious activity by calling 901 or through the eCrime platform.


FOR STUDENTS: SCHOOLS ADOPT DISTANCE LEARNING 

Private schools in Dubai will move to distance learning until Wednesday, March 4, as a precaution amid ongoing regional developments, according to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Officials said the decision prioritises the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff, and urged the public to rely only on official sources for updates.

Earlier, the UAE Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that all public and private schools and universities nationwide would also switch to remote learning from March 2 to March 4, 2026.

Authorities said further updates would be shared through official channels. The UAE’s established remote learning infrastructure–previously used during the Covid-19 pandemic and weather emergencies–allows for a smooth transition while minimizing disruption to the academic calendar.

 

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