Published: 25 October 2026
The United Arab Emirates has expanded coastal restrictions following an offshore oil spill believed to be linked to the crude oil tanker GEM NO.2. On 24 October, Ras Al Khaimah ordered all beaches closed until further notice, following earlier closures in Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah. Authorities are conducting containment and environmental assessment operations.
From Vessel Attack to Coastal Pollution
On 9 October, GEM NO.2, a Panama-flagged crude oil tanker, was reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile approximately 13 nautical miles west of Al Jazeera, UAE. The incident caused a fire that was subsequently extinguished. The vessel is reported to be a very large crude carrier (VLCC) with a capacity exceeding 300,000 deadweight tonnes. All 22 Indian crew members were rescued.
Although UAE authorities have not officially named the tanker responsible for the spill, maritime intelligence analysts have identified GEM NO.2 as the likely source. Satellite imagery reviewed by analysts indicated a substantial oil slick, estimated at approximately 160 square kilometres. The precise quantity of oil released and the full extent of the damage remain unconfirmed.
Coastal Areas and Marine Infrastructure at Risk
The spill has raised concerns about pollution along the UAE's northern coastline. Authorities have closed beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain, temporarily shut Al Hamriyah Beach in Sharjah, and subsequently closed beaches across Ras Al Khaimah.
Environmental monitoring has also focused on the possibility of oil reaching nearby ports, desalination plant intakes and ecologically sensitive marine habitats. The UAE relies heavily on desalination for drinking water, making coastal contamination a significant concern.
Residents in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain reported strong fuel-like odours. The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said the reported odours posed no health risks, while advising the public to avoid oil-contaminated areas and follow official instructions.
A Wider Warning for Commercial Shipping
The incident comes amid a growing number of attacks on commercial vessels across the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. Other reported incidents include the attack on the chemical tanker Acers off Qatar on 7 October, which resulted in reported crew casualties, and the strike on GEM NO.2 two days later. Subsequent attacks on tankers and other vessels have further heightened security concerns.
These incidents demonstrate that the consequences of maritime attacks can extend well beyond immediate vessel damage. A damaged tanker carrying a large quantity of crude oil can create a prolonged environmental emergency, threatening marine ecosystems, coastal communities and essential infrastructure.
For shipowners, charterers and cargo interests, the risks now extend beyond transit delays, higher insurance costs and disrupted shipping schedules. Environmental liabilities and potential restrictions around affected coastal areas add another layer of uncertainty.
The developing situation around GEM NO.2 is a reminder that maritime security and environmental protection are closely connected. As investigations and containment operations continue, the extent of the spill's impact will depend on the quantity of oil released, prevailing sea conditions and the effectiveness of the cleanup.
Logisticswall will continue monitoring developments affecting Gulf shipping, maritime security and regional trade.
image source - Reuters Connect — Satellite image of the oil spill off Umm Al Quwain
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