US Economist Warns UAE of Potential Threats Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

In a stark warning, economist Jeffery Sachs cautions the UAE against joining the US-Israel conflict with Iran, highlighting the potential dangers for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. He describes the UAE's current alignment as an 'absurd mess' and urges a reevaluation of their strategy. As tensions escalate, Iran has issued warnings to Gulf nations regarding their cooperation with US military actions. This situation raises significant concerns about the stability of the region and the safety of its key cities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 29, 2026, 23:38 IST

Warning from a Leading Economist

Jeffery Sachs, a prominent economist from the United States, has issued a stark warning regarding the potential consequences for Dubai if the United Arab Emirates (UAE) aligns itself with the US-Israel conflict against Iran. Following the initiation of hostilities by the US and Israel over Iran's nuclear ambitions, the UAE has found itself under threat from Iranian drone and missile attacks. The conflict escalated on February 28, when US-led forces targeted Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several key figures.

In retaliation, Iran has launched attacks on Gulf nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others, aiming to exert pressure on the US, which maintains military bases in these countries. Additionally, Iran has disrupted global oil and gas trade by controlling the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for energy shipments, causing energy supply issues for many nations.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Tourist Havens, Not Military Bases

In light of these developments, Sachs cautioned the UAE against entering the conflict, emphasizing that Dubai and Abu Dhabi are primarily tourist destinations rather than military strongholds. He criticized the UAE's current alignment with the US and Israel, describing it as an 'absurd mess.' He stated, 'Dubai and Abu Dhabi could face severe consequences if the UAE engages in this war. These cities are meant for leisure and tourism, not for military conflict.'

Gulf Nations' Alliance with the US: A Risky Move

Sachs characterized the Gulf nations' partnership with the US through the Abraham Accords as a 'recipe for disaster,' increasing their reliance on American military support. He referenced former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger's warning about the dangers of such alliances, stating, 'To be an enemy of the United States is dangerous, but to be a friend is fatal.' He urged the UAE to reconsider its strategy and prioritize its own security instead of further entrenching itself in a precarious situation.

Iran's Ongoing Warnings to Gulf Nations

This perspective aligns with Iran's escalating warnings to neighboring countries. On March 20, the Iranian Foreign Ministry called on West Asian nations to prevent the US from utilizing their military bases for operations against Iran, labeling these bases as the 'root cause' of the ongoing crisis. Iran has cautioned that any cooperation with US military actions could lead to serious repercussions for those nations. Gulf states have condemned Iran's assaults on their energy infrastructure, indicating a growing alignment with the US in this conflict.