UAE officials apologize after technical glitch triggers false missile alert

The United Arab Emirates issued a formal apology Friday night after a technical failure in its national early warning system broadcast erroneous missile threat alerts to residents’ mobile phones.

The Supreme Council for National Security confirmed the glitch occurred during the evening, resulting in the accidental transmission of incorrect emergency messages. Specialized teams were deployed immediately to rectify the error and ensure the continuity of services while minimizing the impact on the public, according to an official statement.

The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), the federal body responsible for coordinating the country’s emergency response, joined other relevant authorities in apologizing for what they described as an unintentional technical error. The agencies thanked the public for their cooperation and for adhering to official guidance during the incident.

Residents across the emirates reported receiving the mobile alerts, which briefly raised concerns by citing a potential missile threat. The UAE maintains a sophisticated cell-broadcast system designed to alert the population to natural disasters, weather emergencies, or security risks. While such alerts are rare, they are a critical component of the nation’s defense and safety infrastructure.

Authorities emphasized the importance of ignoring rumors and cautioned against the circulation of information from unverified sources. They urged the public to rely exclusively on official channels for updates to ensure the accuracy of information regarding national safety.

The false alarm occurred against a backdrop of regional sensitivities, recalling periods of heightened tension when the UAE has previously utilized its warning systems to advise caution during security incidents. Government officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the national alert network to protect the community.