ABU DHABI, 19 August. - (ANA) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has immediately halted “all trade, commercial exchange and financial transactions with Iran” due to the threat it poses to the region.

 

The decision follows a spate of attacks on UAE-owned tankers and Tehran's rejection of talks with the US. Shortly before the statement, Iran fired two missiles at the UAE. One landed in Emirati territorial waters, while the second landed outside its territory.

 

“The United Arab Emirates rejects all claims regarding the status of its economic relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, while reaffirming its steadfast commitment to dialogue, co-operation and regional integration as essential means to enhance peace, stability, and prosperity in the region,” Afra Al Hameli, director of strategic communications at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement posted on X.

 

Ms Al Hameli said that “in light of regional escalations that undermine regional and international peace and security”, activities would be suspended until further notice.

 

“The United Arab Emirates remains firmly committed to safeguarding the integrity of the international financial system, in line with international law and the highest global standards,” she said.

 

The announcement represents a notable shift in the economic relationship between the two neighbours, which have maintained substantial commercial ties despite long-standing political tensions in the region.

 

In May 2024, the countries held their first Joint Economic Committee meeting in Abu Dhabi. They agreed to strengthen co-operation in tourism, transport, logistics, agriculture, renewable energy and other sectors, while seeking to boost trade and help businesses reach new markets.

 

Trade between the two countries has remained significant, with the UAE serving as an important trading partner for Iran. According to Iranian customs data, bilateral non-oil trade was worth tens of billions of dollars in recent years, with the UAE accounting for a substantial share of Iran's imports and exports.

 

The UAE has been the target of many attempted attacks originating from Iran amid its war with the US.

 

At least a dozen people have been killed in the UAE during the conflict and more than 200 injured.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/19 August 2026 - - -