As the conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran escalates, the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a critical safety advisory for the over 3.5 million Indian nationals residing in or visiting the United Arab Emirates. The notice comes after several Gulf nations, including the UAE, intercepted a fresh wave of Iranian drones and missiles aimed at US military bases and energy infrastructure.
Key Safety Directives for Indian Nationals
The embassy emphasized that UAE authorities are enforcing a strict “zero-tolerance” policy regarding the documentation of military incidents. To avoid legal repercussions and ensure personal safety, Indians are advised to:
- Seek Immediate Shelter: When a warning alert is heard, proceed to a safe location instantly. Do not go outside to document the event.
- No Filming/Photography: Strictly avoid taking photos or videos of incident sites, damage from projectiles, or shrapnel.
- Digital Silence: Do not upload, share, or circulate any images of conflict-related sites on social media.
- Airport Restrictions: Photography and videography inside UAE airports during arrival or departure are strictly prohibited.
- Report Suspicious Objects: If shrapnel or unknown objects are found, do not touch them. Report them immediately to local authorities.
The Regional Context: A War on the Doorstep
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain have been thrust into the center of the confrontation. Despite Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent apologies to “brotherly” neighbors, the IRGC has continued to target countries hosting US military assets.
The strategic Strait of Hormuz is now effectively a no-go zone for non-Iranian tankers, causing global oil prices to surge. As the UAE and Kuwait scale back oil production due to the threat to infrastructure, the Indian government is working to ensure the safety of its massive diaspora in the region.