ABU DHABI August 19, 2026 — The United Arab Emirates has halted all trade, commercial exchanges, and financial transactions with Iran until further notice, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced late Tuesday.
Afra Al Hameli, Director of the Strategic Communications Department at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed the decision in an official statement. She said the measure was taken “in light of regional escalations that undermine regional and international peace and security.”
Al Hameli rejected all claims about the status of economic relations between the two countries and reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and regional integration as essential tools for promoting peace, stability, and prosperity. She also stressed that the UAE remains firmly committed to protecting the integrity of the international financial system in accordance with international law and global standards.
The announcement came hours after the UAE Ministry of Defence reported that its air defence systems had detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran toward the country on Tuesday evening. According to the ministry, the missiles were targeting maritime navigation. One missile fell within UAE territorial waters, while the other landed in international waters. No casualties or damage were reported.
The suspension marks a sharp deterioration in commercial relations between the UAE and Iran. Dubai has long served as a major re-export hub and financial channel for Iranian goods and capital. The decision follows recent incidents, including attacks on Abu Dhabi National Oil Company vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that the UAE attributed to Iran.
The move occurs against the backdrop of ongoing regional tensions involving Iran and several Gulf states. Officials indicated the trade and financial freeze will remain in effect until further notice.
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