Top U.S. economist 

Jeffrey Sachs recently warned that cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi could be “blown up” if the UAE deepens its involvement in the current Iran-U.S. war. He argued that these cities are highly vulnerable because they are designed as global tourism and financial hubs rather than fortified military zones. 

Why the Risk?

  • Target Vulnerability: Sachs noted that resort areas and luxury destinations are easy targets compared to military bases.
  • Economic Strategy: He called the UAE’s alignment with the U.S. and Israel (via the Abraham Accords) a “strategic miscalculation” and an “invitation for disaster”.
  • Active Threats: This warning follows recent incidents, including an Iranian drone strike on a Kuwaiti oil tanker off Dubai’s coast and debris from air defense interceptions falling on residential areas.