Ras Al Khaimah: Authorities in the UAE emirate of Ras Al Khaimah have announced the temporary closure of all public beaches until further notice, advising residents and tourists to stay away from restricted coastal areas.
The decision was announced on October 24, 2026, by the Ras Al Khaimah Public Services Department in coordination with Ras Al Khaimah Police. Authorities said the restrictions were introduced for public safety and confirmed that a reopening announcement would be issued later. However, they did not specify the exact reason for the closure.
The announcement follows an offshore tanker oil spill that has affected parts of the UAE’s northern coastline. On October 23, authorities in neighbouring Umm Al Quwain closed beaches and coastal areas, while Sharjah also temporarily closed Al Hamriyah Beach as a precaution against marine pollution.
The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has confirmed that environmental assessments and oil containment operations are underway. Although the Ras Al Khaimah closures come amid the same regional situation, officials have not explicitly confirmed that the emirate’s beaches were closed because of oil contamination.
Visitors are advised to follow official announcements and avoid entering restricted beaches. No confirmed reopening date has been issued.
