US-Iran standoff: What UAE residents need to know today (Oct. 12, 2026)

The US-Iran conflict is a significant concern for Gulf residents, especially in the UAE. Recent attacks on Riyadh airport have caused disruptions to flights, with airlines like flydubai suspending services to Riyadh through October 14, and Etihad Airways canceling services between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh through October 12. The UAE has condemned the attacks, which led to 12 deaths and hundreds of injuries.

Negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz remain stalled, with Iran stating that the US response to its proposal for reopening the waterway was inadequate. Qatar has been acting as an intermediary, but Iran demands further progress before agreeing to any terms. Airlines and governments across the region have condemned the escalation, and flights are still subject to cancellations and schedule changes.

Residents should check their individual flight status, follow official announcements, and avoid restricted military, security, and critical infrastructure sites. Oil prices are currently at $90.52 per barrel for WTI crude and $103.6 per barrel for Brent crude, with Murban at $110.6 per barrel. A durable reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could ease pressure on prices, but renewed attacks or breakdown in negotiations could push prices higher.