After Iran launched retaliatory strikes against the United Arab Emirates following U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, approximately 500,000 Iranians living in the UAE now face sweeping repercussions.
UAE authorities have reportedly canceled visas for Iranian nationals and shut down Iranian-affiliated institutions in a large-scale crackdown.
Visa Cancellations, Hospital and School Closures Deal Direct Blow to Iranian Community
The UAE announced a complete ban on entry and transit for Iranian nationals on Wednesday, the Wall Street Journal reported Thursday. Authorities have begun canceling visas for Iranians residing in the country and closing Iranian-linked institutions.
A travel agency handling Iran-related tourism told the WSJ that travel to and from Iran had been severed since the war began, adding that cases of the UAE government rejecting visa applications from Iranians were increasing.
Facilities frequented by Iranian residents have also been shutting down one after another. An Iranian hospital ceased operations a week ago on orders from UAE authorities, and an Iranian school and social club were also confirmed to have been closed.
Recently, cases have emerged of Iranian-born residents being asked for identification by police on beaches and subsequently detained. Analysts say these developments are dealing a serious blow to the broader 500,000-strong Iranian community.
2,500 Drones and Missiles — UAE Hit Harder Than Israel
The UAE and Iran, which had maintained friendly relations, appear to have rapidly turned against each other in the wake of the conflict.
Shortly after Iran was struck by U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, it launched indiscriminate attacks on major UAE cities including Dubai, the country's financial and tourism hub. Observers say bilateral relations have deteriorated to an irreparable level.
Iran fired a total of approximately 2,500 drones and missiles at the UAE during the conflict — far more than it launched at Israel.
The UAE is reportedly weighing participation in or support for military operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blockaded.
Financial pressure measures, including freezing the assets of Iranians within the UAE, have also reportedly been placed under review.
"All means of pressure against Iran are being considered," a source told the WSJ, adding that UAE authorities would reassess residency policies for specific communities including Iranians.
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