UAE closes more beaches as Gulf oil spill raises environmental concerns

Investing.com -- The United Arab Emirates has expanded beach closures across several northern emirates following an oil spill in the Persian Gulf, raising concerns about environmental damage and potential health risks.

Authorities in Sharjah closed Al Hamriya Beach as a precautionary measure to prevent contamination, while Ras Al Khaimah announced the closure of all its beaches until further notice.

The latest restrictions follow an oil spill detected on Friday off the coast of Umm Al Quwain, north of Dubai.

The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment initially ordered the temporary closure of all beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain after identifying the spill.

Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the tanker involved.

The ministry said unusual odours reported in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Ajman did not pose health risks to residents.

Specialised response teams have been deployed to Sharjah to implement protective measures and prevent pollutants from reaching the emirate’s beaches.

The incident adds to a series of maritime pollution events affecting the Gulf region in recent months.

In August, a tanker ran aground near Oman’s southeastern coast, triggering an oil slick covering an area approximately six-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan.

Iran subsequently faced an oil spill near Qeshm Island, close to a breeding habitat for endangered hawksbill sea turtles.

The ongoing regional conflict has further heightened concerns about maritime pollution, particularly around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier this month, a cargo vessel sank in the strait after an attack triggered a fire, according to Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority.

Other commercial vessels have also been struck by projectiles, raising the risk of fuel leaks and environmental damage even when their main oil storage tanks remain intact.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical shipping route for global energy supplies, making maritime safety and environmental protection increasingly important amid continued regional hostilities.