Dubai beaches unaffected by oil spill despite closures elsewhere

Dubai: There was a sigh of relief for Dubai beachgoers as Gulf News staff visiting Jumeirah Beach and Al Mamzar Beach found both open and welcoming visitors, with residents and tourists making the most of the clear skies and weekend outdoor weather.

The scenes offered reassurance for beachgoers after a week of closures elsewhere along the UAE coast. On October 23, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) confirmed that a tanker oil spill had been detected off Umm Al Quwain, and authorities across several northern emirates responded by restricting access to coastal areas.

None of the closures announced so far apply to Dubai’s beaches.

More than 35 beaches and coastal areas across Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah are now closed or have restricted access.

Ras Al Khaimah closed all of its public beaches on October 24 until further notice, while Umm Al Quwain had earlier shut its beaches and coastal areas. Sharjah first closed Al Hamriyah Beach as a precaution, and later extended the closures to other beaches in the emirate.

No reopening dates have yet been announced for Umm Al Quwain or Ras Al Khaimah, and authorities in Ras Al Khaimah said a further announcement would depend on conditions. Several hotels and resorts in the affected emirates have restricted beach access and sea swimming, while keeping pools, restaurants and other facilities open.

The ministry said the odours reported by residents in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Ajman did not pose a health risk.

At Jumeirah, the morning followed its usual pattern. Families, couples and groups of friends were spread out along the beach, and more visitors arrived as the morning went on. Some came for a swim, while others set up umbrellas, towels and chairs. Lifeguards were on duty, and flags marked the swimming areas as usual.

The turnout comes as temperatures begin to ease after the summer. On Friday, Jumeirah Beach looked much as it usually does at this time of year, with people spending the morning by the sea.

Al Mamzar Beach was also open during a Gulf News team visit, with visitors enjoying the seaside and spending time outdoors.

Staff observed beachgoers at the popular Dubai destination, while lifeguards were on duty. The beach remained accessible, with visitors making the most of the weekend weather.

The visits to Jumeirah and Al Mamzar offer a snapshot of normal beach activity in Dubai, even as coastal restrictions remain in place in parts of the northern emirates.

For now, Dubai’s Jumeirah and Al Mamzar beaches remain open, with visitors continuing to enjoy swimming and seaside activities. However, beach conditions and restrictions elsewhere may change as authorities monitor the oil spill. Visitors should check official updates before travelling to beaches in the affected northern emirates.