Key facts
- Satellite images show an oil spill off the UAE coast has widened and is reaching shorelines.
- The spill is reportedly coming from the tanker Gem No.2, which was struck by a projectile last month.
- Beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah have been temporarily closed.
- The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment is conducting an environmental assessment.
An oil spill off the coast of the United Arab Emirates has widened, with satellite images showing it reaching the shores of Umm Al Quwain. The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed efforts are underway to contain the leak and conduct an environmental assessment. Experts told Reuters the spill originated from the tanker Gem No.2, which was reportedly struck by a projectile last month. Authorities have closed beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah as a precautionary measure.