UAE Ministry of Energy announces control over oil spill from tanker 'GEM NO.2'

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure confirmed that joint coordination continues with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, and relevant federal and local authorities to monitor the securing of the oil tanker “GEM NO.2” following an incident in the country’s territorial waters, and to take necessary measures to mitigate associated risks and ensure the safety of maritime navigation, according to WAM.

The Ministry noted that, based on the latest field assessments, no new oil spill has been detected from the tanker. Meanwhile, maritime and aerial surveillance operations continue, utilizing satellite imagery to closely monitor the situation and track any developments.

For its part, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment confirmed that its technical teams continue to address the marine pollution caused by the oil spill, in continuous coordination with relevant federal and local authorities. Field surveys, monitoring, and cleanup operations are being conducted in coastal areas affected by the spill, with the Ministry emphasizing that community safety remains the top priority.

The Ministry added that, according to the latest satellite imagery as of Friday, October 30, 2026, the oil slick is concentrated off the coast of Ajman, extending partially toward coastal areas in Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah.

It confirmed that the observed pollution density has shown a significant decline, as containment and remediation efforts continue for the spill, which has been stopped at its source.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment clarified that containment and remediation efforts rely primarily on mechanical response methods, alongside the use of chemical dispersants in accordance with international standards and approved technical guidelines, in coordination with relevant authorities.

The Ministry stressed that the temporary closure of certain beaches and coastal areas is a precautionary measure, clarifying that this does not necessarily indicate pollution at all closed sites. Rather, it reflects a commitment to community and marine environmental safety, and allows for the completion of survey and remediation operations.

The Ministry affirmed the safety of fish and food products available in markets and their suitability for human consumption, highlighting the efficiency of the country’s food security system in ensuring food safety.

In the same context, Etihad Water and Electricity confirmed that the safety and quality of drinking water are top priorities. Proactive measures have been taken to enhance the safety of the water production system, including monitoring seawater quality at intake points, testing produced and distributed water, and verifying compliance with approved standards before pumping it into the network. The company noted that these precautionary measures will not affect water supplies to beneficiaries.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority commended the integrated efforts undertaken by relevant authorities and specialized national teams, which have resulted in securing the tanker and controlling the sources of the oil spill, alongside containment operations to limit the spread of pollution and mitigate its environmental impacts.