US-Iran war: 5 things UAE residents need to know today (Oct 12, 2026)

The Middle East conflict continued to escalate on Monday with renewed missile and drone threats reported by Saudi Arabia. The country's main airport, King Khalid International Airport, remained closed until October 17 following deadly attacks over the weekend. These attacks killed 13 people and left over 300 injured in Saturday's strike, and another individual was killed and nearly a dozen wounded on Sunday. Saudi authorities are currently investigating the effectiveness of their air defenses.

UAE residents are facing further flight disruptions as the Riyadh airport closure has forced airlines, including Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France-KLM, to cancel or postpone services. Aviation authorities in the US and Europe have also issued warnings about the risks present in Saudi airspace. For those traveling to Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to verify flight schedules and connections prior to departure.

Concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have also risen following two recent attacks on commercial tankers. An Indian sailor was reported missing after a drone strike on the MT Petro Dolphin, while another tanker attack resulted in the survival of its crew. The vulnerability of this critical shipping route, which facilitates Gulf energy exports and international trade, is a significant concern for UAE businesses and consumers alike.

Oil prices surged above $106 a barrel on Monday due to the ongoing attacks on Saudi infrastructure and commercial shipping. This increase could lead to higher freight charges, insurance premiums, and longer delivery times for imported goods for UAE companies and consumers. In response to the ongoing attacks on Riyadh airport, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the Houthi attacks on Saudi territory and reaffirmed its solidarity with the kingdom.

The ministry also called for strengthened Gulf security cooperation, warning that attacks on Saudi Arabia pose a threat to the wider region. Residents are advised to stay informed through official government announcements and airline advisories as the situation continues to evolve.