Big win for Donald Trump, who has accused organisation of ‘ripping off the rest of the world’ by inflating oil prices Business live – latest updatesThe United Arab Emirates has quit the Opec oil cartel in a heavy blow to the group and its de facto leader, Saudi Arabia, amid the global energy shock caused by the Iran war.The stunning loss of the UAE, a longstanding Opec member, could create disarray and weaken the group, which has usually sought to show a united front despite internal disagreements over a range of issues from geopolitics to production quotas. Continue reading...
Enzo Bettamio alleged to have stabbed Kamonnan Thiamphanit in April 2024 at a property in BayswaterA teenager has been charged with murder over the death of a 27-year-old woman after his extradition from the United Arab Emirates to the UK.The charge relates to the stabbing of Kamonnan Thiamphanit, which took place at a property in Bayswater, west London, on 6 April 2024. Continue reading...
Families of those accused of sharing images of conflict in region say ministers are too fearful of offending EmiratesMiddle East crisis live – latest updatesThe families of UK citizens held in the United Arab Emirates over allegations that they shared images of the conflict with Iran have voiced frustration at the British government’s failure to help.Several British citizens are among more than 100 foreign nationals who have been detained under draconian Emirate rules that outlaw publishing or sharing material that could “disturb public security”. Continue reading...
Abnormally strong jet stream triggers deluge in Middle East, while north Africa braces for 60-80mph gustsAn unusual weather pattern unleashed severe thunderstorms across parts of the Middle East last week, battering countries including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. The Arabian peninsula – typically dominated by arid desert climates – received up to 150mm of rain in just a few days.The deluge was caused by an abnormally strong jet stream, which helped form a deep area of low pressure to develop north of Saudi Arabia. This, in turn, drew moist tropical air from the Indian Ocean and triggered intense storms. Continue reading...
• Trump's AI adviser David Sacks defended the decision to allow UAE access to powerful American semiconductor technology, calling it a turning point for establishing US tech dominance globally.
• The UAE's $1.4 trillion investment and economic framework with the US, announced last year, continues as planned with accelerated deployment and funding in AI, energy, advanced manufacturing, and critical infrastructure.
• Trump's 2025 visit to the UAE resulted in plans for a 5GW UAE-US AI Campus, a major joint infrastructure initiative.
• The United Arab Emirates reported heavy explosions in Dubai early Friday as its air defenses intercepted incoming Iranian fire over the city.
• Kuwait reported two oil refineries on fire and Saudi Arabia disclosed that its Samre refinery came under attack, indicating Iran's widening campaign against Gulf energy infrastructure.
• The attacks represent Iran's strategic effort to target regional economic assets and disrupt global energy supplies as the conflict escalates beyond direct military engagements.
Sky News Arabia has been accused of broadcasting propaganda and whitewashing genocide in SudanSky is considering terminating its joint venture with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after accusations it is involved in broadcasting propaganda and genocide denial.Sky is in talks with its partner in the UAE on Sky News Arabia over the potential termination next year of the licence to use its brand. Continue reading...
Prime minister says no Australian personnel were injured and maintains Australia is not at war with IranFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAn Iranian projectile hit near Australia’s headquarters at the Al Minhad airbase in the United Arab Emirates, damaging an accommodation block and a medical facility.The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, confirmed that no Australian personnel were injured in the strike at 9.15am AEDT on Wednesday morning. Continue reading...
• UAE's Fujairah oil port sustained damage during escalating Iran war operations as the conflict enters its third week, with regional oil infrastructure becoming a focal point of military action.
• Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arashi denied claims that Iran seeks a ceasefire or negotiations, stating "We are ready to defend ourselves for as long as it takes" and rejecting US overtures for talks.
• The damage to critical Gulf oil infrastructure underscores the war's impact on global energy markets and regional stability, with implications for worldwide crude supplies.
• U.S. Mission to the United Arab Emirates released a security alert on March 15, 2026, urging Americans to stay vigilant amid potential threats.
• Instructions to follow local authorities and review embassy guidance; limited commercial options available for departure.
• Alert tied to broader Middle East instability from Iran conflict, affecting U.S. citizens in Gulf region.
The United Arab Emirates detained 10 foreigners accused of spreading disinformation through social media videos depicting missile and drone attacks on UAE landmarks, including AI-generated content. UAE General Prosecutor Hamad Al Shamsi ordered their detention, stating the acts are punishable by at least one year in prison and a 100,000 dirham fine (€23,744). This crackdown highlights regional efforts to curb panic and false narratives amid escalating Middle East conflicts involving US forces. Further investigations are underway as authorities monitor online activity.
The United Arab Emirates detained 10 foreigners on March 14, 2026, for allegedly spreading missile and drone attack footage on social media amid regional conflicts. Authorities cited national security risks from content depicting strikes on UAE sites. The detentions highlight Gulf states' crackdown on disinformation during heightened tensions with Iran-backed groups. Human rights groups call for transparency in legal proceedings.