UAE shuts down all Umm Al Quwain beaches

The UAE has temporarily closed all beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain after a tanker oil spill affected its shoreline, while authorities said odors reported in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain pose no health risks to residents.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said its technical monitoring and environmental assessment system detected the oil spill.

Teams immediately began containment, cordoning, cleanup and remediation operations in coordination with local and federal authorities to limit the environmental impact, it added.

“Odors noticed in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain pose no health risks to residents,” the ministry said.

The temporary closures will remain in place until technical teams complete their assessments and identify the necessary safety and marine protection measures, the ministry said.

Precautionary coastal surveys, monitoring and environmental assessments are continuing to gauge the impact of the spill and protect the marine environment.

The ministry urged fishermen and other sea users to follow instructions issued by the authorities and avoid fishing in affected areas.

It also called on the public to rely on official channels for information and avoid spreading rumours, adding that it would provide updates on developments and the measures being taken.