UAE Closes Airspace Following Israel-US Attack on Iran, Indonesians Urged to Remain Calm
JAKARTA — The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Abu Dhabi has issued a warning to Indonesian citizens following the temporary closure of portions of United Arab Emirates (UAE) airspace by the General Civil Aviation Authority in response to attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026.
The KBRI has urged Indonesian nationals in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas to contact their respective airlines immediately to obtain the latest information regarding flight schedules if they have travel plans.
The KBRI also stated that airlines will provide necessary assistance and accommodation for affected passengers in cooperation with local authorities.
“Citizens are requested to remain calm and only follow information from official sources to avoid inaccurate information,” according to an announcement cited from the KBRI Abu Dhabi Instagram account on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
For Indonesian citizens affected by flight cancellations or those at airports, the KBRI requests they immediately contact the KBRI Abu Dhabi hotline at (+971) 56 615 6259 should there be any developments or other obstacles that need to be reported.
The KBRI Abu Dhabi stated that the temporary closure was implemented as a precautionary measure to ensure flight safety, aircraft crew safety, and security of the national territory amid developments in the regional security situation.
“This decision was made following a comprehensive assessment of security and operational risks, and through coordination with national and international authorities.”
The GCAA emphasised that the safety and sovereignty of UAE airspace is the top priority, and information updates will continue to be provided in accordance with the development of the situation.
It was previously reported that Israel attacked Tehran, Iran, on Saturday morning, 28 February 2026. Following the attack, Israel closed its airspace and declared a state of emergency.
According to The Guardian, Israel closed its airspace in anticipation of a possible retaliatory attack by Iran with drones and missiles.
An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the attack was a preliminary step to eliminate threats to the country.
Meanwhile, news agency Agence France-Presse reported two explosions heard in Tehran.
An Associated Press report stated that the attack occurred near the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.
The United States was reported to be involved in the attack as well.
This information was conveyed by several US officials and other sources aware of the operation.
The attack occurred as the US deployed a large fleet of fighter jets and warships to the region to pressure Iran to reach an agreement regarding its nuclear programme.
News agencies Tasnim and Fars have now confirmed the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, no details regarding his death were announced. Following Khamenei’s death, Iran has declared 40 days of mourning and a seven-day national holiday.