Drone Attack Sparks Fire Near UAE Nuclear Power Plant, UN Condemns
Authorities in Abu Dhabi responded to a fire that broke out at a power generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah nuclear power plant in the Al Dhafra area, caused by a drone attack, according to a statement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office, as reported by AFP on Sunday (17/5/2026).
The plant began operations in 2020 and is located about 200 kilometers west of the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi. The location is near the border with Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The state-owned operator, Emirates Nuclear Energy Company, said in 2024 that the plant supplies up to a quarter of the electricity needs of the oil-rich country.
“No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels,” the media office said. “All precautionary measures have been taken, and further updates will be provided as they become available.”
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) affirmed that the fire did not affect the safety of the plant or the readiness of its main systems, and all units remain in normal operation.
Rafael Grossi, head of the UN nuclear agency, condemned the incident.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated on X that Grossi “expressed deep concern over the incident and said that military activity threatening nuclear safety is unacceptable”.
The United Arab Emirates became the second country in the region to build a nuclear power plant after Iran, and the first in the Arab world.
The statement did not mention the origin of the drone launch. However, the UAE has recently accused Iran of being behind attacks on its energy and economic infrastructure.
Tehran launched retaliatory attacks in various regions after the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, killing senior leaders and sparking a wider war.
Iran accused the UAE and other US allies in the Gulf of allowing US forces to launch attacks from their territory. The UAE strongly denied Iranian reports that it was actively involved in the attacks.
Washington and Tehran agreed to a ceasefire on April 8, but peace negotiations stalled and sporadic attacks continue.