UAE Tackles Major Oil Spill from Supertanker in Arabian Gulf, Causing Widespread Fuel Odors

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates are actively responding to an oil spill originating from a supertanker in the Arabian Gulf. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed the incident on Friday morning, attributing a strong fuel smell reported by residents in Dubai and the northern emirates to the spill.

While the ministry has not identified the specific vessel, international maritime agencies suggest the Gem No. 2 may be involved, having reportedly been struck in a suspected Iranian drone attack between October 9-10. At the time of that incident, 22 Indian sailors were rescued from the large 330-meter vessel.

The exact size of the oil slick remains undetermined. However, the confirmation of the UAE spill comes amidst heightened concerns regarding the environmental consequences of the Iran war on the Gulf and the Arabian Sea.

Residents across the UAE have recently noted a pungent and strong fuel odor in the air. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has stated that the odor poses no health risks but advised the public to avoid any oil that reaches the shore.

In a statement, the ministry detailed, "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. Odours noticed in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain pose no health risks to residents."

The statement continued, "Teams immediately began containment, cordoning, cleanup and remediation with local and federal authorities to limit environmental impacts. Precautionary coastal surveys, monitoring and assessments continue to gauge impacts and protect the marine environment."

Furthermore, the ministry announced, "With relevant authorities, the Ministry has temporarily closed all Umm Al Quwain beaches and coastal areas until technical teams complete assessments and identify safety and marine protection measures."

"Fishermen and sea users are urged to follow authorities’ instructions and avoid fishing in affected areas," the statement concluded.