Authorities say no fresh oil leak has been detected, while safety measures and monitoring efforts continue following the tanker incident in UAE waters.
Abu Dhabi: UAE authorities have confirmed that no fresh oil leak has been detected from the tanker GEM NO.2 following an incident in the country’s territorial waters. Specialist teams continue to secure the vessel, monitor the affected waters, and contain the environmental impact of the spill.
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure said coordination was ongoing with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and relevant federal and local authorities to reduce risks and maintain safe maritime navigation.
Technical teams are working on the tanker, repairing damaged sections, restoring some operating systems, and assessing the condition of its hull. These inspections will help determine the safest way to handle the vessel.
Oil Slick Concentrated Near Umm Al Quwain
According to satellite monitoring images available as of Friday, October 30, 2026, the oil slick is concentrated off Umm Al Quwain, with parts extending towards coastal areas of Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah.
Authorities reported a noticeable decline in the intensity of the pollution. The leak has been stopped at its source, while monitoring continues through sea and air patrols, supported by satellite imagery to identify any further developments.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said specialist teams were surveying, monitoring, and cleaning coastal areas affected by the spill. These operations are being carried out in coordination with federal and local authorities, with public safety and environmental protection remaining priorities.
Mechanical Methods Used to Treat Marine Pollution
Containment and treatment operations rely mainly on mechanical methods, supported by chemical dispersants where required. Their use follows international standards and approved technical guidelines, in coordination with the relevant authorities.
The ministry also clarified that temporary closures of certain beaches and coastal areas are precautionary measures. A closure does not necessarily mean pollution has been detected at every affected location. The restrictions allow authorities to complete surveys and treatment work while protecting the public and marine environment.
Residents and visitors have been urged to follow official instructions concerning beaches and coastal areas covered by precautionary measures.
UAE Confirms Fish and Food Products Remain Safe
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed that fish and food products available in UAE markets remain safe and fit for human consumption.
Authorities said the country’s food security system continues to carry out the necessary checks to protect food safety.
Air quality is also being monitored, with relevant authorities assessing readings and tracking developments jointly.
Etihad Water and Electricity Strengthens Drinking Water Monitoring
Etihad Water and Electricity has reaffirmed that drinking water safety and quality remain a priority following the tanker incident.
The utility has introduced precautionary measures to strengthen monitoring across its water production systems. These include checking seawater quality at intake points, testing produced and distributed water, and verifying compliance with approved requirements before water enters the supply network.
The company confirmed that these measures will not affect water supplies to customers.
Joint Response Operations Continue Across the UAE
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority acknowledged the coordinated work of federal and local bodies and specialist national teams.
Authorities said the joint response has secured the tanker and brought the source of the oil leak under control. Teams are continuing efforts to contain the pollution, prevent further spread, and address its environmental effects.
Field operations and inter-agency coordination will continue, with national resources deployed to protect maritime navigation, coastal communities, and marine environments.
Authorities said further updates would be shared through approved official channels as monitoring and cleanup operations progress.
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The municipality is coordinating with the relevant authorities to accelerate the response and ensure that field teams can respond effectively to changes in the situation.
Supplied / Gulf News
