The UAE announces the closure of the beaches of Umm Al Quwain following an oil leak from a tanker

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The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment announced the temporary closure of all beaches and coastal areas in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain, after monitoring an oil leak from a tanker that affected the beaches of the emirate, while confirming that the odors observed in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain do not pose a health risk to the population.

The Ministry said, in a statement published through its official account on the “X” platform, that the technical monitoring and environmental assessment system in the UAE detected an oil leak from a tanker, the effects of which extended to the shores of Umm Al Quwain.

She explained that the specialized teams immediately began implementing procedures to contain the leak, isolate the affected areas, clean them, and treat its effects, in coordination with the relevant local and federal authorities.

She stressed that these measures aim to reduce the environmental repercussions of the spill and protect the marine environment and coastal areas.

The Ministry indicated that a decision had been taken to temporarily close all beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain, in cooperation with the competent authorities.

She added that the closure will continue until the technical teams complete the assessments and determine the necessary measures to ensure safety and protect the marine environment.

It also confirmed the continuation of coastal surveys, monitoring and environmental assessment operations, with the aim of determining the scope of the potential effects of the spill and following up on developments in the situation.

The Ministry did not set a date for reopening the beaches, as it linked the decision to the results of ongoing technical examinations and evaluations.

Regarding the odors detected by residents in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, the Ministry reassured the public that they do not pose health risks to residents.

It called on fishermen and seagoers to adhere to the instructions of the competent authorities and to avoid fishing in areas affected by the spill.

She also stressed the necessity of relying on official channels to obtain information, and not circulating rumors or unreliable news about the incident.

The Ministry confirmed that it will continue to publish developments related to the oil spill and the measures taken to contain it and address its effects.

The statement did not include details regarding the identity of the tanker from which the leak occurred, the amount of oil leaked, or the marine area affected.