UAE stops GEM NO. 2 oil leak as 35 beaches close across Northern Emirates

UAE authorities confirmed on Saturday, 31 October that the source of an oil leak from the tanker GEM NO. 2 has been stopped, following a coordinated maritime response across the Northern Emirates. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) reported that field assessments detected no new leaks, though specialized teams remain on-site to stabilize the vessel. Surveillance and containment operations The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) is utilizing satellite imagery, aerial surveillance, and marine patrols to track the remaining slick. Satellite data from Friday, 30 October showed the pollution concentrated off the coast of Umm Al Quwain, with fragments extending toward Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Sharjah. Authorities noted a significant decline in the intensity of the observed pollution since the initial spill. Clean-up operations involve mechanical recovery to remove oil from the water and the application of chemical dispersants in accordance with international technical standards. Field teams are currently conducting remediation across affected coastal zones to mitigate the environmental impact on local marine ecosystems. Widespread beach closures As a precautionary measure, more than 35 beaches and coastal areas have been closed or restricted across three emirates. In Umm Al Quwain, all public and hotel beaches, including Kite Beach Centre and Mangrove Beach, are temporarily shut. Ras Al Khaimah has closed all public beaches, including Flamingo…