Two ballistic missiles launched by Islamist insurgents over the United Arab Emirates were destroyed on Monday, January 24, the country's defence ministry said.

Footage taken in the capital Abu Dhabi shows two flares arcing across the sky shortly before loud explosions were heard. Two flashing lights can be seen falling to the ground after authorities intercepted the missiles. No casualties were reported.

The defence ministry said in a statement: 'The remnants of the intercepted ballistic missiles fell in separate areas around Abu Dhabi.' It added that the UAE will take the 'necessary measures' to protect the state and its citizens against attacks.

The missiles were reportedly fired by Houthi rebels, who are embroiled in a longstanding conflict with a Saudi Arabia-led coalition that includes the UAE.

The incident comes a week after another deadly attack in Abu Dhabi, in which three civilians were killed in an explosion at a fuel depot.