Authorities in the UAE have reassured residents that unusual odours reported across Sharjah, Ajman and Dubai do not pose a known threat, as monitoring and efforts to identify the source continue.
The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) said assessments had found no indications of concern regarding the odours reported in several parts of the country. In a statement on social media platform X, the ministry said field monitoring and response efforts were ongoing to reduce the smell and speed up its dissipation.
The ministry added that it was coordinating with relevant local authorities to investigate the nature and source of the odours. It assured the public that any developments requiring precautionary measures would be communicated promptly, along with the necessary guidance. Residents were also urged to avoid speculation and rely on authorised official channels for updates.
Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No. 1 radio station, brings residents the latest updates on developments affecting communities across the Emirates, helping keep the public informed through reliable news and official announcements.
Separately, Sharjah Police Commander-in-Chief Lieutenant General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer addressed residents’ concerns on the Direct Line programme, saying the situation was under control and did not pose a cause for concern.
“We have received complaints from some regarding the odours in Sharjah and neighbouring emirates,” he said, assuring the public that the situation remained safe and stable and that there was no known threat. He added that authorities would provide updates if there were any new developments.
Reports of a strong, pungent smell began emerging on Monday, with residents in Sharjah, Ajman and Dubai describing an odour resembling fuel or gas. Several people shared their experiences on social media and public messaging platforms.
Residents reported detecting the smell across wide areas. One resident, Sarah, said she noticed it along the E311 and initially suspected a problem with her car engine. After stopping at a petrol station and stepping outside, she realised the smell appeared to be coming from the surrounding air. She said the odour remained strong for around two hours before easing as the wind picked up.
In Dubai, complaints came from Al Nahda, Mamzar and Deira. In Sharjah, the smell was particularly noticeable in Qassimiya and Rahmaniyya, while Ajman residents reported it in Nuaimia, the Corniche area and Al Rashidiya.
The exact cause of the odours has not yet been established. Some residents reported feeling nauseous because of the intensity of the smell, while others said they had switched off their air-conditioning systems and closed their windows.
Authorities have reiterated that monitoring efforts are continuing and that official updates will be issued if further action is required.
Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No. 1 radio station, will continue to keep its listeners informed with the latest developments across the Emirates.
