Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is actively working to reduce tensions with Iran while simultaneously enhancing its military alliances with the United States and Israel. This dual strategy is part of the UAE's efforts to safeguard its economic and security interests amid ongoing regional conflicts. According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, UAE President Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan has entrusted three of his brothers with the task of managing diplomatic channels with Tehran. Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan are leading these initiatives. Recent communications between Sheikh Mansour and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, and between Sheikh Abdullah and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, highlight the ongoing diplomatic efforts. The UAE's diplomatic overtures towards Iran gained momentum following a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, and further escalated after a memorandum of understanding was signed between Tehran and Washington on June 12. However, the recent escalation in hostilities, marked by Iran's missile and drone attacks on multiple Gulf states, including Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, has posed a challenge to the UAE's strategy. Amid these developments, the UAE has also made decisions impacting its Iranian community. During the conflict, residency permits for about 20,000 Iranian residents outside the UAE were suspended. In recent times, some permits have been reactivated, although many are still pending. Meanwhile, tourist visas for Iranians continue to be unavailable, and new residency applications are reportedly not being processed. Economic factors also drive the UAE's approach towards Iran, especially in Dubai, a major trading hub with a significant Iranian population. The Financial Times reports that Dubai's economy benefits from trade with Iran due to its large population and consu mer market. An Emirati businessman noted the difficulty of substituting certain inexpensive goods imported from Iran, such as tomatoes. The ongoing conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel has led to inflationary pressures in the UAE. The government is taking measures to mitigate rising prices. An Iranian businessman in Dubai confirmed that Iranian products are still reaching the UAE, albeit at higher costs due to complications around the Strait of Hormuz. He mentioned alternative supply routes, such as through Oman and Fujairah, which have helped maintain the flow of goods. The UAE confirmed it faced approximately 3,000 Iranian missile and drone attacks during the initial phase of the conflict, with many being intercepted. In response, Abu Dhabi adopted a more assertive posture against Tehran, with reports of UAE involvement in some retaliatory actions. The Financial Times characterizes the UAE's strategy as a calculated risk, balancing diplomatic and economic engagement with Iran while reinforcing mil itary ties with Israel and the United States. This approach reflects Abu Dhabi's challenge of balancing its reliance on Western security partnerships with the necessity of maintaining strategic relations with its influential neighbor, Iran.