Abu Dhabi, UAE – As conflict intensifies in Iran and reverberates across the Middle East, a sense of unsettling normalcy prevails in the United Arab Emirates. While regional tensions escalate, daily life in Abu Dhabi continues with a remarkable degree of order and calm, a testament to the UAE’s long-held strategy of projecting stability amidst volatility. However, the shadow of the conflict is present, even as life goes on, with educational institutions like NYU Abu Dhabi adapting to the changing circumstances.
The juxtaposition of war and routine is particularly striking for those within the academic community. Susan Marie Ossman, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Professor of Movements, Spaces and Cultural Practices at NYU Abu Dhabi, has seen her classes transition to a virtual format, mirroring the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift, as reported by France 24, underscores the subtle but significant impact of the regional conflict on even the most insulated aspects of life in the UAE. Ossman, an anthropologist, artist, and historian with extensive research experience in North Africa, Europe, North America, and the Middle East, embodies the international character of the UAE and its academic institutions.
A History of Stability and Insulation
The UAE has consistently positioned itself as a haven of stability in a region frequently beset by conflict. This carefully cultivated image is rooted in a combination of economic diversification, strategic alliances, and a proactive foreign policy aimed at de-escalation. The country’s robust infrastructure and efficient governance contribute to its ability to maintain normalcy even during times of regional crisis. However, the current situation presents a unique challenge, as the conflict in Iran and surrounding areas is unfolding with a level of intensity not seen in recent years.
Susan Ossman’s operate, as detailed on the NYU Abu Dhabi website, focuses on themes of mobility, subjectivity, globalization, gender, art, and scholarship. Her research, spanning multiple continents, provides a valuable perspective on the complexities of cultural interaction and the impact of global events on local communities. Her latest book, Shifting Worlds, Shaping Fieldwork, a Memoir of Anthropology and Art (Routledge 2021), offers insights into the challenges and rewards of conducting research in dynamic and often unpredictable environments. Previous publications include Picturing Casablanca, Portraits of Power in a Modern City (California 1994), Three Faces of Beauty, Casablanca, Paris, Cairo (Duke 2002), and Moving Matters, Paths of Serial Migration (Stanford 2013).
The Impact on Daily Life
Despite the outward appearance of calm, the conflict in Iran is not entirely absent from the daily experiences of those living in the UAE. The shift to online learning for students at NYU Abu Dhabi is a tangible example of the adjustments being made. Beyond the academic sphere, there is a heightened awareness of the potential for escalation and a sense of unease among residents. The UAE government has not issued widespread public advisories, but it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with regional and international partners to ensure the safety and security of its citizens and residents.
The UAE’s economic ties to the region also signify that it is not immune to the potential economic consequences of the conflict. Disruptions to trade routes, fluctuations in oil prices, and increased geopolitical risk could all have an impact on the UAE’s economy. However, the country’s diversified economy and substantial financial reserves provide a buffer against these potential shocks. The UAE has invested heavily in sectors such as tourism, finance, and technology, reducing its reliance on oil revenue and enhancing its economic resilience.
Regional Concerns and International Response
The escalating conflict in Iran has raised concerns among other Gulf states, who fear a wider regional conflagration. As reported by France 24, there is a sense of “bitter betrayal” among some Gulf countries regarding Iran’s response to recent attacks. The UAE, along with Saudi Arabia and other regional powers, has long been wary of Iran’s regional ambitions and has sought to counter its influence through a combination of diplomatic efforts and strategic partnerships. The current crisis has further exacerbated these tensions and underscored the need for a concerted international effort to de-escalate the situation.
The United States’ involvement in the conflict has also drawn criticism and sparked debate, even within its own political landscape. France 24 reported that former President Trump’s decision to launch attacks on Iran has faced opposition from a significant portion of the American public, as well as from within his own party. The division within the US political establishment reflects the broader international concerns about the potential consequences of a prolonged and escalating conflict in the Middle East.
The Humanitarian Situation
Beyond the immediate geopolitical implications, the conflict in Iran is also having a devastating impact on the civilian population. Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, as reported by France 24, have already displaced more than 58,000 people in just two days, adding to the growing humanitarian crisis in the region. The need for humanitarian assistance is urgent, and international organizations are working to provide aid to those affected by the conflict. The UAE has a long history of providing humanitarian assistance to countries in need, and it is likely to play a role in supporting relief efforts in the region.
NYU Abu Dhabi and Continued Research
Despite the challenges posed by the regional conflict, NYU Abu Dhabi continues to operate and support its students and faculty. Susan Ossman’s “Scattered Subjects” project, a digital/onsite laboratory created to experiment with subjectivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrates the university’s commitment to innovative research and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The Moving Matters Traveling Workshop (MMTW), a collective of migrant artists and scholars led by Ossman, also continues to explore questions of migration with diverse publics in various locations, including museums and public spaces. These initiatives highlight the importance of academic inquiry and artistic expression in understanding and addressing the complex challenges facing the world today.
The university’s ability to maintain its academic programs and research activities, even as the conflict rages nearby, is a testament to its resilience and its commitment to its mission. NYU Abu Dhabi serves as a microcosm of the UAE’s broader efforts to project stability and normalcy in a turbulent region.
Looking Ahead
The situation in Iran and the wider Middle East remains highly volatile and unpredictable. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether the conflict can be contained or whether it will escalate into a wider regional war. The UAE will continue to play a key role in efforts to de-escalate the situation and promote a peaceful resolution. The country’s commitment to stability, its economic resilience, and its diplomatic engagement will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.
The next significant development to watch will be the outcome of ongoing diplomatic efforts led by regional and international actors. The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to convene on March 8, 2026, to discuss the situation in Iran and consider potential resolutions. The outcome of this meeting could have a significant impact on the trajectory of the conflict.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this evolving situation in the comments below. Your insights are valuable as we continue to monitor and report on this critical issue.