Heightened missile and drone risks force authorities to prioritize public safety over tradition
DUBAI: Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have banned Eid prayers in open spaces this year, directing worshippers to gather only inside mosques due to rising security concerns.
Officials said the decision was taken “for public safety,” suspending the long-standing tradition of large outdoor congregations held in musallahs across cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The move comes amid escalating regional tensions linked to the ongoing Iran–Israel–US conflict 2026, which has increasingly impacted Gulf nations. Since late February, the UAE has faced repeated aerial threats, including drones and missiles launched toward its territory.
While most projectiles have been intercepted, authorities confirmed that falling debris has caused casualties and damage in populated areas. Emergency alerts have been issued nationwide, urging residents to seek shelter during interception operations.
Security experts say large outdoor prayer gatherings pose heightened risks, as they are harder to secure during sudden threats. Mosques, by contrast, provide more controlled environments for crowd management and rapid response.
The restriction reflects broader precautionary measures aimed at minimizing exposure during high-risk periods. Officials have not specified how long the ban will remain in effect but emphasized that safeguarding lives remains the top priority amid ongoing uncertainty.
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