UAE ministry says tanker oil spill caused 'foul smell' in Sharjah, UAQ, Ajman

The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed on Friday an oil spill from a tanker caused "odours" reported across Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, affirming there is no health risk associated with it.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, the ministry said the spill caused marine pollution that extended to Umm Al Quwain beaches. 

Teams immediately began containment, cordoning, cleanup and remediation with local and federal authorities to limit environmental impacts.

The authority temporarily closed Umm Al Quwain beaches and coastal areas until technical teams complete assessments, identify the extent of the impact, and implement safety and marine protection measures.

Authorities have urged fishermen to follow their instructions and avoid fishing in affected areas.

The report follows a previous statement by the ministry investigating the source of unusual odours reported across the country. 

The ministry urged the public to rely on official channels for updates on developments and measures taken.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirms the UAE’s technical monitoring and environmental assessment system detected a tanker oil spill affecting Umm Al Quwain’s beaches. Odors noticed in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain pose no health risks to residents.

Teams… pic.twitter.com/KKIP45k1Dj

— ‎وزارة التغير المناخي والبيئة (@MoCCaEUAE) October 22, 2026