Authorities in Ras Al Khaimah have ordered the closure of all beaches across the emirate until further notice, following an offshore oil leak that also prompted temporary beach closures in neighbouring Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah.

The Public Services Department announced the decision in a statement shared by Ras Al Khaimah Police General Headquarters on Saturday. However, authorities did not provide a specific reason for the closures.

The move came a day after the United Arab Emirates confirmed efforts to contain oil leaking from a tanker offshore. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is conducting an environmental assessment to determine the impact of the incident.

Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah Close Beaches

Authorities in Umm Al Quwain temporarily closed beaches and coastal areas while technical teams assessed the situation and identified the necessary safety and marine protection measures.

The UAE environment ministry also urged fishermen and other sea users to stay away from affected areas and follow official instructions.

Meanwhile, authorities in Sharjah temporarily closed Al Hamriyah Beach as a precaution. The beach lies on the UAE’s northern coast near the border with Umm Al Quwain, according to the Sharjah Government Media Bureau.

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Residents have reported unusual odours in parts of Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. The environment ministry said the reported smells posed no health risks.

However, the pungent odour continued across Umm Al Quwain on Friday, according to local reports.

Cause of Oil Leak Remains Unknown

UAE authorities have not identified the tanker involved in the incident or disclosed what caused the leak.

The incident has raised concerns about the potential environmental impact on the UAE’s northern coastline. Authorities are continuing their assessments to determine the extent of the spill and the measures needed to protect marine life and coastal areas.

The closures also affect a region known for its beaches, tourism and luxury resorts.

Regional Maritime Security Concerns

The oil leak comes amid heightened concerns about maritime security in Gulf shipping lanes since the start of the US-Israeli war with Iran. Attacks on commercial vessels have increased concerns about the conflict’s potential environmental and economic consequences.

Ras Al Khaimah is also home to the planned Wynn Resorts casino resort on Al Marjan Island.

The Las Vegas-based company received the UAE’s first commercial gaming licence in 2024. In February, Wynn said it expected the resort to open in the first quarter of 2027.

The company announced in March that construction had resumed following a brief pause, despite continuing regional disruption caused by the conflict.

Authorities have not announced when the affected beaches will reopen. Their status will depend on official assessments and further safety guidance.