Ras Al-Khaimah authorities announced on Saturday that all beaches in the emirate would remain closed indefinitely following an offshore oil leak that also affected neighboring Umm Al-Quwain and Sharjah. The Public Services Department, in coordination with Ras Al-Khaimah Police, made the decision as a precautionary measure while environmental assessments are conducted.
The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed that efforts were underway to contain the oil spill, which originated from a tanker. Beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al-Quwain were temporarily closed until technical teams completed their safety evaluations. The ministry advised fishermen and other sea users to avoid the affected areas and follow official guidelines.
Sharjah also took precautionary measures by closing Al-Hamriyah Beach, located near the border with Umm Al-Quwain. Residents in Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al-Quwain reported unusual odors, but the environment ministry assured that these posed no health risks. The source of the spill was identified as the tanker Gem No.2, which was struck by an unidentified projectile on October 9, causing a fire that was later extinguished.
The incident has heightened concerns about maritime security and environmental fallout amid ongoing tensions in the region, particularly since the start of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Ras Al-Khaimah, known for its luxury resorts, is also the site of Wynn Resorts’ planned casino resort on Al-Marjan Island, which is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027.