UAE oil spill: Khor Fakkan beach reopens to the public

Al Zubarah Beach in Khor Fakkan, which had been closed to the public because of an oil spill, has been cleaned and reopened, Gulf News can confirm.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, chairperson of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah, confirmed to Gulf News that the spill involved a light oil of unknown origin.

In a precautionary move for public safety, Khorfakkan City Municipality, part of the emirate of Sharjah, had temporarily banned swimming along the popular Al Zubarah Beach after oil spills were spotted contaminating the shoreline waters.

The slicks, which have caused surface-level pollution, were treated as a serious threat to both beachgoers and marine life. In response, the municipality swiftly raised red flags along the entire stretch of beach — an unmistakable sign that swimming was strictly off-limits. Residents and visitors were being urged to avoid entering the water until further notice.

Environmental and emergency teams worked around the clock to assess the situation, identify the source of the pollution, and contain its spread. The effort involves close coordination with specialized environmental agencies across the emirate, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the incident.

“Safety is our top priority,” the municipality stated, noting that even lifeguards had been instructed not to enter the sea until it was declared safe. Officials also warned that anyone violating the ban would face legal consequences. Parents, in particular, were being reminded to keep a close eye on their children during this period.

Emergency response teams remained on high alert to respond to any developments. The municipality also took the opportunity to remind the public about the meaning behind the colored flags fluttering along the coast — each one a signal of sea conditions and safety. Red means no swimming. Green signals safe waters. Yellow advises caution. Purple warns of dangerous marine life. And the red-and-yellow flag indicates a designated safe swimming zone under lifeguard supervision.

The municipality also called on members of the community — especially beachgoers and fishermen — to promptly report any signs of pollution or unusual environmental changes. Such collaboration is vital to strengthening ongoing conservation efforts and ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources for future generations.