A leading American economist, Jeffrey Sachs, has warned that cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi could face severe destruction if the United Arab Emirates (UAE) becomes directly involved in the ongoing Iran-linked conflict, underscoring rising geopolitical risks in the Gulf. Speaking amid escalating tensions in West Asia, Sachs cautioned that the UAE’s deepening alignment with the United States and Israel could expose it to retaliation. He argued that entering the conflict would significantly increase the vulnerability of major Emirati cities, which are not designed as fortified military zones but as global tourism and financial hubs.

“Dubai and Abu Dhabi could be blown up if the UAE gets into the war,” Sachs said, emphasising that these cities are built around hospitality, investment, and global commerce rather than defence infrastructure. He added that turning such locations into potential war zones would undermine their core economic purpose and international appeal.

The warning comes at a time when the UAE has reportedly signalled willingness to participate in a multinational maritime coalition aimed at securing shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global energy corridor. Analysts say such a move could draw the country deeper into the conflict, increasing the risk of direct or indirect attacks on its territory.

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Recent developments have already highlighted the region’s vulnerability. Missile and drone activity linked to the conflict has affected Gulf infrastructure, with interceptions and debris causing disruptions in parts of the UAE. In some cases, key facilities, including airports and industrial sites, have faced temporary shutdowns or damage, raising concerns about civilian and economic exposure.

Sachs also criticised Gulf nations’ long-standing reliance on US military protection, describing it as a “fundamental miscalculation.” He suggested that such dependence may embolden strategic decisions that carry significant risks, particularly in a volatile geopolitical environment where retaliation could extend beyond traditional military targets.

The remarks highlight growing concern among analysts that the conflict could increasingly impact economic centres and civilian infrastructure across the Gulf. While the UAE has not formally entered the war, the situation remains fluid, with any escalation likely to have far-reaching consequences for regional stability, global energy markets, and international trade routes.

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