Abu Dhabi, Oct. 23 -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Friday, October 23, confirmed that an oil spill from a tanker caused an unpleasant smell reported in Sharjah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, prompting the temporary closure of beaches and coastal areas in Umm Al Quwain.

In a statement posted on X, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said its technical monitoring and environmental assessment system had detected marine pollution affecting the emirate's beaches.

The ministry assured residents that the smell posed no health risks.

Specialised teams, working with local and federal authorities, have begun containment and clean-up operations to limit environmental damage. The affected areas have also been cordoned off.

Coastal surv...