An alert from the Ministry on Interior on March 3, 2026. EXPAT MEDIA

Emergency alerts have been lighting up mobile phones across the UAE since Sunday (March 1), prompting many residents and visitors to ask the same question: why did some receive the message while others did not? The first nationwide alert, issued by the Ministry of Interior at 12:30am on Sunday (March 1), warned of "potential missile threats" and advised residents to “seek immediate shelter in the nearest secure building and stay away from windows, doors and open areas.” Similar alerts were sent on subsequent nights as regional tensions escalated. On Tuesday (March 3) at 2:34am, some residents in parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah again received an alarm warning of a potential threat, followed later by a message stating that the situation was safe. Residents in areas such as Deira, Muhaisnah and Bur Dubai told Expat Media they received the latest alert on Tuesday night. Other residents in neighbourhoods including Al Barsha and International City said they did not receive the notification. “We didn’t get the alert since yesterday and today. Only one time we got on that first day on Sunday,” Ann Woodruff told Expat Media. Another resident, Donna Don, commented: “Why aren’t we all getting these?” A Dubai Police officer told Expat Media that the alerts are location-based and are sent to residents and visitors in areas where authorities want them to be extra cautious. “It’s nothing to be afraid of, it is just to tell you to be careful and stay alert,” the officer explained to Expat Media. The Ministry of Interior said that people who receive the alert must "comply by heading to a safe place, taking shelter there until an 'all clear' alert is issued for the area." "If you are in your car, continue to your intended destination and upon arrival, proceed to the nearest safe place," the ministry added. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said the alerts are part of the national early warning system designed to enhance preparedness and preventive efforts. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and rely only on official sources for updates.

24/7 mental health support in Abu Dhabi

Amid heightened tensions, Abu Dhabi has also launched a round-the-clock mental health hotline to support residents. The 800-SAKINA (725462) service is managed by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi in collaboration with Sakina, a specialist mental health network under SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth. The hotline offers psychological first aid and direct access to qualified professionals in Arabic and English, including dedicated support for children and families. Residents can call for assistance with anxiety, panic attacks, acute stress, sleep difficulties and other mental health concerns. ICA/CAM/PIA/Expat Media
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