UAE beaches are shut as oil from a tanker struck during Iran's Hormuz attacks turns the sea black

Satellite imagery connects the source of the leak to Gem No.2, a vessel that sustained damage on 9–10 October during a record surge of Iranian strikes on ships. What began as a minor leak first detected on 19 October has now spread across 35km (22 miles) in the space of two days. Umm Al Quwain has ordered the closure of all its beaches, and Sharjah has shut Al Hamriyah Beach. UAE authorities have yet to name the tanker or account for the cause of the spill.

Residents across Sharjah, Ajman and northern Dubai are reporting an unusual oil-like smell.

The environment ministry has said the odours pose no health risk and has advised fishermen to stay away from the affected area.

Marine scientist Steve Widdicombe says it is 'inevitable that there will be an impact'.