A blaring alert sound to warn of inbound missiles is to be changed to a quieter mobile phone chime at night. The alerts have become common as defence forces warn of inbound projectiles.
"The system will remain fully operational to ensure public security alerts," the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said on Monday.
From 9am to 10.30pm, the system will send a loud tone, followed by a standard text message tone to say the threat has been dealt with. Overnight, from 10.30pm to 9am, it will consist of a standard text message tone for both alerts.
Ncema urged the public to follow official instructions, including seeking shelter when asked to do so.
How the alerts work
The alert is sent using a system called cell broadcast, which sends a message through mobile network towers.
Every phone connected to those towers receives it instantly, and it overrides silent mode to ensure people do not miss it.
It works whether the phone is registered locally or not, meaning tourists get the message. The alerts are geo-targeted, so people away from the area are not troubled unnecessarily.
It is common for people in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the rest of the emirates to receive messages about different threats at different times of day.
The UAE is contending with waves of Iranian drones and missiles, as the US-Israeli conflict with Iran continues.
Since the start of Iran's attacks on the UAE, 233 ballistic missiles and 1,359 drones have been intercepted and destroyed. Eight cruise missiles have also been shot down.
UAE authorities on Sunday declared the country was in a "state of defence" in response to "brutal and unprovoked Iranian aggression".
The UAE Foreign Ministry said the continued Iranian attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of four people with more than 100 injuries, were a "direct threat" to the nation's security and stability, and a breach of international law.
What to do when you hear a safety alert
The public is urged to shelter in a safe place when UAE missile warning alerts are activated until the all-clear is received.
This will come in the form of a second message sent to mobile phones, advising that it is safe to resume normal activities, while still taking all necessary precautions.
People are urged to stay away from windows and avoid open spaces while such safety measures are in place. This is to minimise risk as air defence systems intercept missiles and drones, which can lead to falling debris.
What if I am driving?
The National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority said those driving when an alert sounds should continue to their intended destination and find a safe place there.
What not to do
UAE citizens and residents have been urged by the country's Attorney General to refrain from taking or sharing videos or photos of the Iranian attacks on the nation.
There is a risk of creating public panic and presenting a false impression of the country's situation, said Dr Hamad Al Shamsi. In some cases, he added, it could lead to prosecution.
Taking pictures while missile alert measures are in place can also pose a risk to safety, given that air defence systems are actively intercepting threats in the skies.
