United Arab Emirates authorities announced they have contained an oil spill from a damaged oil tanker named GEM NO. 2. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure stated on Friday that it was working alongside the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and other bodies to secure the vessel.
Technical teams are repairing damaged sections of the tanker. They are working to restore operational systems and evaluate the structural integrity of the ship to establish the safest method for handling it. No new oil leakage has been detected from the vessel. Maritime and aerial monitoring teams continue their surveillance, utilizing satellite imagery to track the situation.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment reported that its personnel are actively managing marine pollution through field surveys and cleanup operations in affected coastal zones. Officials stressed that public safety is their primary objective.
Satellite data reviewed on Friday indicated that the oil slick was concentrated off the coast of Umm Al Quwain. The slick also extended partially toward the shores of Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah. The ministry observed that the concentration of pollution has decreased significantly. Cleanup work relies mainly on mechanical recovery methods and approved chemical dispersants applied in line with international standards.
Authorities implemented temporary closures across several beaches and coastal locations as a precaution. The ministry clarified that these closures do not indicate contamination at every site, but were ordered to safeguard public health and the marine environment.
Etihad Water and Electricity confirmed that drinking water supplies remain safe. The utility provider noted that it introduced precautionary measures, including monitoring seawater quality and testing produced water, while maintaining uninterrupted service to consumers.
Officials have not revealed the cause or nature of the incident involving the tanker, nor have they stated when the damage took place. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment initially announced the temporary closure of all beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain on October 23. This step was taken after the discovery of marine pollution stemming from the tanker spill.
