Risk of drones, missiles: UAE bans Eid prayers in open spaces

DUBAI: Authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced that Eid prayers will not be permitted in open spaces this year, directing worshippers to offer prayers strictly inside mosques as part of heightened public safety measures.

Officials said the decision was taken “for public safety,” stressing that large outdoor congregations, traditionally held in open Eid prayer grounds known as musallahs, will not be allowed.

The move marks a significant shift from long-standing practice in the UAE, where thousands typically gather in open areas on Eid mornings, reflecting a tradition rooted in early Islamic history and communal worship.

SECURITY BACKDROP: IRAN WAR REACHES GULF

The restrictions come against the backdrop of an escalating regional conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, which has increasingly spilled into the Gulf.

Since late February, the UAE has faced repeated aerial threats as part of the ongoing 2026 Iran war, with Iranian forces launching hundreds of missiles and drones toward the country.

Most have been intercepted by UAE air defence systems, but falling debris has caused casualties and damage in populated areas, including parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

In recent days, residents across the country have received emergency alerts warning of potential missile threats, with authorities urging people to seek shelter during interception operations. Officials have also warned that even successful interceptions pose risks, particularly from falling fragments.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

Against this volatile backdrop, limiting large outdoor gatherings appears to be part of a broader strategy to reduce exposure to potential danger during high-risk periods.

Security analysts say open prayer grounds, often accommodating thousands in a single prayer gathering, could be difficult to secure quickly in the event of sudden alerts, compared to mosques, which offer more controlled environments.

The UAE government has not indicated how long the restrictions will remain in place, but noted that public safety remains the top priority amid continued regional uncertainty.