Umm Al Quwain:Abu Dhabi The United Arab Emirates has successfully contained an oil spill from a damaged tanker, GEM NO. 2, within its territorial waters. Efforts to clean up the affected coastal areas are ongoing, as confirmed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure is collaborating with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and other agencies to secure the tanker and minimize risks. Technical teams are actively repairing the tanker, restoring operational systems, and assessing its structural integrity.

The ministry reported that no new oil leakage has been detected, with maritime and aerial monitoring continuing, supported by satellite imagery. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is conducting field surveys, monitoring, and cleanup operations, with public safety as a priority.

Satellite imagery indicates that the oil slick is concentrated off the coast of Umm Al Quwain, extending towards Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah. The pollution concentration has significantly declined, and cleanup efforts using mechanical recovery and chemical dispersants, compliant with international standards, are ongoing.

Several beaches and coastal areas have been temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. Etihad Water and Electricity assured the safety of drinking water, having implemented measures to monitor seawater quality and test water supplies.

The exact nature or cause of the tanker incident remains undisclosed. On October 23, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment announced the temporary closure of all beaches in Umm Al Quwain following the detection of marine pollution from the spill.