How Jews in the UAE are responding to Chabad rabbi’s shocking murder

The attack has heightened security concerns in the UAE, which has enjoyed stable relations with Israel since the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Rabbi Sarna, who was instrumental in establishing Jewish life in the Emirates, sought to reassure the community, describing the UAE as a “safe place” where “security is tight.”

“After this incident, I am sure that precautions which were not taken previously are going to be taken,” Sarna said. “Despite the fear that we are experiencing in the short term, there is going to be a strong building back.”

Jewish leaders noted, however, that life has changed significantly in the Gulf since the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. “We’ve kept a lower profile,” Sarna added, revealing that he no longer walks publicly wearing a kippah and tzitzit, opting instead for a baseball cap.

Kosher restaurants in the UAE, he added, lack visible Jewish symbols, “You have to know where they are.”

Rabbi Dr Elie Abadie, a former senior leader of the Jewish Council of the Emirates, confirmed that many Israelis had returned to Israel following the October violence, in part due to security concerns. “The government was concerned for the safety of the Jewish people and requested we be much quieter, not to engender animosity,” he told Israel National News last month.

Nevertheless, Kriel emphasised the resilience of the community, highlighting the support from friends and government officials. “They are as shocked and injured as we are and dedicated to the safety and security of the UAE’s residents and visitors,” he said.

He added: “There is no choice but to continue the humble and elevated efforts to build Jewish life in the UAE so beautifully personified by Tzvi and Rivky. With God’s grace we will continue to serve as a cause for hope and optimism, poignant as it may be after Tzvi’s tragic death.”