Top US economist Jeffrey Sachs has warned that Dubai and Abu Dhabi could face severe risks if the UAE enters the ongoing Iran conflict. He stressed that these cities, built as global tourism and financial hubs, lack fortified defenses and could be highly vulnerable in a war scenario.
On March 29, 2026, Jeffrey Sachs, speaking to ANI and other outlets, cautioned the UAE against deeper involvement in the Middle East conflict. He argued that siding with the US and Israel against Iran would be a “fundamental miscalculation,” exposing Dubai and Abu Dhabi to direct military threats.
Sachs’ Warning
Vulnerability Of Cities: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are designed as tourist and financial centers, not military strongholds.
Potential Consequences: Sachs bluntly stated these cities “could be blown up” if the UAE enters the war.
Strategic Misstep: He criticized reliance on US protection under the Abraham Accords, calling it an “invitation to disaster.”
Broader Context
The UAE has reportedly signaled willingness to join a multinational maritime task force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Sachs believes such involvement would undermine the UAE’s economic model, which depends on stability and global connectivity.
He emphasized that war participation would erode the very foundations of Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s prosperity.
Key Highlights
• Jeffrey Sachs warns UAE against entering Iran war
• Dubai and Abu Dhabi vulnerable due to lack of military defenses
• Cities built as tourism and financial hubs, not war zones
• Reliance on US protection seen as strategic miscalculation
• UAE’s involvement could destabilize its economic model and global standing
Sources: Mint, Hindustan Times, The Economic Times, Financial Express