Ras Al Khaimah's Public Services Department announced on Saturday that all beaches across the emirate have been closed "until further notice." The move coincides with similar beach closures in neighbouring emirates following reports of an oil spill off the coast of Umm Al Quwain, though RAK authorities have not officially confirmed the reason behind their own decision.
The department said beaches would reopen "in due course" and urged residents and visitors to "comply with guidelines issued by the relevant authorities to ensure everyone's safety." No specific timeline for reopening has been given, and local authorities say the situation is being monitored.
The closure comes as several beaches across the UAE have been shut this week as a precaution linked to the suspected spill. Tourists and residents planning to visit RAK's beaches are advised to check official updates from the Public Services Department before heading out.
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the UAE's key coastal tourism destinations, and a prolonged closure could affect hotels and beach-based tour operators in the emirate. As of publication, no authority has announced a firm date for reopening.