Beaches closed in three UAE emirates due to oil spill from tanker

Coastal access restrictions in three emirates

On 24 October, the administration of the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates decided to fully close all beaches. This ban will remain in effect until further notice. The decision was made the day after neighbouring emirates Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah had already restricted access to their coastal zones due to an oil spill at sea.

This was reported by Reuters. An official statement was issued by the Department of Public Services, with the text appearing on the platform of the Ras Al Khaimah Police Headquarters. The document did not specify the reasons for the closure decision.

Government actions and environmental monitoring

As early as 23 October, UAE authorities reported ongoing efforts to contain an oil leak from a tanker near the coastline. The country's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment began conducting an environmental assessment of the situation.

The ministry explained that all beaches and coastal areas in the city of Umm Al Quwain are temporarily inaccessible. This is due to the need to complete inspections by technical teams and determine a set of safety measures to protect the marine environment. Fishermen and other individuals using the sea are advised to avoid affected areas and strictly follow official instructions.

In the emirate of Sharjah, Al Hamriya Beach was temporarily closed for safety reasons. It is located on the country's northern coast, near the border with Umm Al Quwain.

Residents' reaction and risk assessment

Residents of certain districts in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain complained of an unusual smell. However, the UAE Ministry of Environment noted that this smell poses no threat to human health. Nevertheless, on Friday, the smell remained quite strong in Umm Al Quwain.

UAE authorities have not yet disclosed the name of the tanker involved in the incident, nor have they reported on the cause of the oil leak.

Context: shipping security in the region

The incident occurred against a backdrop of heightened attention to shipping security in the Persian Gulf. Following the start of the war by the US and Israel against Iran, attacks on commercial vessels have intensified concerns about overall maritime security and potential environmental consequences of the conflict.

Ras Al Khaimah is known for its beaches and resort infrastructure. On Al Marjan Island in this emirate, a casino resort by Wynn Resorts is under construction. The operator expects the facility to open in the first quarter of 2027.