The key facts
- UAE authorities reported on October 30 that the oil spill near the tanker Gem No. 2 has been contained and no new leaks have been detected
- The slick is concentrated off Umm Al Quwain, partially affecting Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman and Sharjah; the intensity of pollution has decreased
- Beaches in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are temporarily closed as a precautionary measure
The spill has been contained, no new leaks detected
UAE authorities announced on October 30 that the oil spill detected off the country's coast has been contained, and work to secure the damaged oil tanker Gem No. 2 is ongoing. According to The National, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure stated that no new leaks have been found. The operation is being coordinated by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, together with other agencies.
Where the slick is located and what specialists are doing
According to the Ministry of Climate Change, as of October 30 the oil slick is concentrated off the coast of Umm Al Quwain and is partially spreading toward the coastal areas of Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman and Sharjah. The intensity of the pollution has decreased noticeably: teams are carrying out surveys, monitoring and cleanup of affected shoreline areas, using mechanical containment methods and chemical dispersants in line with international standards. Technical specialists continue to stabilize and repair the tanker — repairing damaged sections, restoring some systems and assessing the structural integrity in order to determine the safest way to handle the vessel. Observation is being conducted from sea and air, including with the use of satellite imagery.
Closed beaches and assurances about the safety of water and food
Beaches in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah have been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. Authorities stressed that the closures do not necessarily mean pollution has been detected at all of these sites — they are needed to protect public safety and to carry out surveys and treatment. Residents have been advised to observe restrictions in coastal areas. Federal and local agencies stated that food products and fish at local markets are safe. Union Water and Electricity confirmed that the safety of drinking water remains a priority: the quality of seawater at intake points is being monitored, and water produced and distributed is tested for compliance with standards before entering the network; the supply of water to consumers, authorities assured, will not be affected. Agencies are also continuing to monitor air quality and stated that all resources remain mobilized to protect shipping and the marine environment.
