Dozens of British citizens have been jailed in the United Arab Emirates as the country clamps down on social media activity over the Iran war.

Advocacy group Detained in Dubai released a report on Sunday documenting "widespread arrests, detention, and prosecution of residents, tourists, workers, and students of multiple nationalities".

The UAE's global image as a safe, tax-free business hub and holiday destination has been shattered in the past month, as buildings - including Dubai's airport and the iconic Fairmont hotel on Palm Jumeirah - have been hit by Iranian missiles and drones.

By 28 March, Iran had launched 398 ballistic missiles, 1,872 drones and 15 cruise missiles at the UAE.

The Emirati government has cracked down on social media posts and videos depicting the attacks, in a bid to limit the reputational damage to the country.