Indian national injured as intercepted missile debris falls in Abu Dhabi

An Indian citizen suffered minor injuries in Abu Dhabi after fragments from a ballistic missile landed in the Al Shawamekh area, authorities said on Monday, noting that the projectile had been successfully intercepted by air defence systems.

Officials said emergency teams were immediately deployed after the interception, as debris fell in a residential neighbourhood.

In a statement posted on X, the Abu Dhabi Media Office confirmed the incident, saying, "Relevant authorities in Abu Dhabi have responded to an incident involving debris falling in the Al Shawamekh area following the successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defence systems. The incident resulted in a minor injury to an Indian national."

"The public is reminded to obtain information from official sources only and avoid spreading rumours or unverified information," read the post.

A report published by Gulf News said that 161 people were injured in the incident, with conditions ranging from minor to severe.

Those hurt included individuals from multiple countries such as the UAE, India, Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Iran, Afghanistan, and several others.

The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the region. Beginning February 28, the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran following mounting pressure from Donald Trump over Tehran’s nuclear programme. Iran’s response has since widened the conflict across the Gulf region.