US–Israel–Iran War Day 33: UAE update for April 1
Regional tensions continue to shape daily life on day 33 of the US–Israel war with Iran, as authorities respond to air defence debris incidents, announce significant fuel price changes, and extend distance learning across the country. Here are the key developments UAE residents should know today.
One killed after drone debris falls on Fujairah farm
Authorities in Fujairah confirmed that one person was killed after debris from an intercepted drone fell on a farm in the Al-Rifa’a area. The Fujairah Government Media Office said UAE air defence systems successfully intercepted an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over the emirate, but debris from the interception subsequently landed on the farm. A Bangladeshi national died as a result of the incident, authorities said.
Debris falls on Dubai homes, four Asian nationals injured
Authorities in Dubai confirmed on Tuesday that they responded to an incident in southern Dubai caused by debris from a successful air defence interception. The debris fell on residential houses, resulting in property damage and minor injuries to four Asian nationals. Officials also confirmed that the loud sounds heard across parts of the city earlier that day were linked to the same air defence operations.
UAE announces petrol and diesel prices for April 2026
The UAE Fuel Price Committee announced the retail prices for petrol and diesel for April 2026, with significant increases across all grades. Super 98 petrol will cost Dh3.39 per litre, up from Dh2.59 in March, while Special 95 petrol is now priced at Dh3.28 per litre, compared to Dh2.48 last month. E-Plus petrol will sell for Dh3.20 per litre, rising from Dh2.40 in March. Diesel prices have also risen sharply, now standing at Dh4.69 per litre, up from Dh2.72 previously.
Distance learning extended until April 17 for universities
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in coordination with the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, announced the extension of remote learning at higher education institutions until April 17, 2026. The ministry said in-person classes will resume only for priority programmes requiring physical attendance, in strict adherence to approved safety measures. Institutions were urged to monitor developments and coordinate with local authorities to ensure continuity and maintain learning quality.
Dubai’s KHDA confirms two more weeks of distance learning
Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority confirmed that distance learning will continue across all private educational institutions in the emirate for an additional two weeks, from Monday, April 6 until Friday, April 17, 2026. The extension was made as authorities continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of students and academic and administrative staff across Dubai’s private education sector.
UAE school group waives transport fees for April
UAE education group Woodlem Education announced a waiver of transport fees across all its institutions in the country, effective from April 2026, describing it as a compassionate measure to support families during the current situation. The relief applies to parents of more than 20,000 students across 10 institutions, eight schools and two nurseries, following the authorities’ extension of distance learning until April 17, with possible further extensions if required. The group noted that transport fees for March had already been collected prior to the announcement.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank among world’s top 10 smartest cities
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have secured leading positions in the 2026 Smart City Index published by the International Institute for Management Development. Dubai ranked sixth globally, while Abu Dhabi placed tenth among 148 cities assessed. Zurich topped the global ranking, followed by Oslo, Geneva, London, and Copenhagen. The report highlighted the UAE’s model of government-led investment in digital technology as a global benchmark, noting strong public trust and significantly improved urban performance across the country.
GN
