UAE Authorities Contain Oil Spill from Damaged Tanker Gem No. 2, Environmental Impact Mitigation Underway

UAE authorities announced on Friday the successful containment of an oil spill that occurred off the coast. The operation to secure the damaged oil tanker, identified as Gem No. 2, is ongoing. Officials stated their commitment to minimizing the spill's impact on the nation's marine environment and confirmed that no new leakage has been detected.

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 relevant bodies to oversee the containment and clean-up efforts. Specialized technical teams are actively working to stabilize and repair the tanker. This includes addressing damaged sections, restoring essential operational systems, and assessing the vessel's structural integrity to determine the safest course of action.

Maritime and aerial surveillance operations, including the use of satellite imagery, are continuing to monitor the situation closely and identify any developments. As of Friday, October 30, the oil slick was reported to be concentrated off the coast of Umm Al Quwain, with a portion extending towards coastal areas in Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah, according to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.

Pollution intensity has shown a significant decrease. Survey, monitoring, and cleaning operations are being conducted across the affected coastal areas. Containment strategies involve mechanical control methods and the application of chemical dispersants, adhering to international standards. As a precautionary measure, beaches in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah have been temporarily closed. Authorities clarified that these closures do not necessarily indicate pollution at all affected sites but are intended to ensure public safety and facilitate ongoing survey and treatment work.

The public has been urged to adhere to instructions from authorities regarding restricted coastal areas. Air quality monitoring is also continuing, with readings being evaluated and developments followed in joint coordination. Authorities reiterated the importance of public compliance with instructions concerning beaches and coastal areas under precautionary measures.

Federal and local authorities have assured the public that food and fish products available in local markets are safe for consumption. The Union Water and Electricity Company confirmed that the safety of drinking water remains a top priority. Proactive measures are in place to monitor seawater quality at intake points and ensure that produced and distributed water meets approved standards before entering supply networks. The company guaranteed that water supply to customers will not be affected.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority affirmed that all available capabilities and resources are mobilized to protect maritime navigation and the marine and coastal environment.