The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said on its X account that the country's technical monitoring and environmental assessment system detected marine pollution resulting from an oil spill from a marine tanker. The effects extended to the beaches of Umm Al Quwain, leading to odours noticed by residents in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. The ministry said the odours do not pose any health concerns or risks to residents.
As soon as the pollution was detected, specialised teams, in coordination with the relevant authorities, began taking the necessary measures to contain it, establish barriers around the affected areas, and start cleanup and treatment operations to reduce its environmental impact. Surveys are continuing as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of the marine environment.
As part of the precautionary measures, the ministry has temporarily closed all beaches and coastal areas in the emirate until cleanup operations are completed and the necessary measures are determined. It also urged fishermen and seafarers to follow official instructions and refrain from fishing in the affected locations.
The ministry called on the public to obtain information from official channels and avoid spreading rumours, stressing its commitment to keeping residents informed of the latest developments.