World

'We are now in a time of war,' UAE president says

By AAP Newswire

Mar 8, 2026

United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has addressed his people with urgent words in light of Iranian attacks, saying the Gulf state is at war.

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"We are now in a time of war," Mohamed told Abu Dhabi TV on Saturday during a visit to the injured in a hospital in the capital.

He also had a message for the enemies: "The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh, we are not an easy prey."

"The UAE is attractive, the UAE is beautiful, a role model, but I tell them don't be misled," he added.

"I promise everyone we will emerge stronger than we were," Mohamed said.

The UAE, like the other Gulf states, has been under attack by Iran for a week, which has responded to US-Israeli military strikes with attacks on US military bases in the region.

The UAE has been attacked more frequently compared to the other Gulf countries.

According to their own reports, the country's air defence has intercepted about 200 missiles, 1100 drones and several cruise missiles.