Latest news bulletin | August 25th, 2026 – Evening

Dubai residents are currently dealing with the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which is causing flight disruptions and heightened economic pressure on Iran. The US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, has announced plans for "economic asphyxiation," imposing secondary sanctions on countries with economic ties to Iran. Iran's currency, the rial, has hit a record low against the US dollar, plummeting to 2.02 million rials per dollar on the open market.

China has expressed opposition to the latest sanctions, stating that they are illegal unilateral measures and warning that Beijing will safeguard its rights and interests. Meanwhile, the UAE has called for Iran to work with GCC countries to de-escalate tensions and seek a political solution to the conflict, emphasizing that targeting GCC countries is a grave strategic miscalculation.

UAE flights continue to face cancellations and delays due to the conflict, with Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia mostly operating scheduled services but experiencing some disruptions. International airlines are also operating reduced schedules on some routes. Passengers are advised to check their flight status directly with their airline before traveling as schedules can change rapidly.

In diplomatic efforts, a Pakistani delegation led by army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and reviving negotiations to end the conflict. Both sides expressed a desire for a peaceful resolution, with Pezeshkian warning the US against coercive tactics. The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint, with at least 14 vessels already attacked and Iran seeking to impose its own shipping corridor through the waterway.