Police chief says nothing to worry about after reports of strong fuel smell across Sharjah and Dubai

Show caption: Sharjah Police have reassured residents that the situation i…

Authorities investigating as residents in parts of emirates report unusual odour

The UAE government on Wednesday said it was investigating "unusual odours" reported across a number of emirates and has moved to assure the public there is no cause for concern.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said it is working with local authorities to verify the nature and source of the smell.

Residents in parts of Sharjah and Dubai said on social media and other platforms that there was a strong smell similar to fuel or gas.

"Response efforts and field monitoring remain ongoing to reduce the odours and accelerate their dissipation," the ministry said in a statement on social media.

The ministry stressed that assessments conducted had found "no indications of concern" and said the public would be informed should any developments arise that require precautionary measures.

The cause of the smell is still to be determined. The National has previously reported on the environmental effects of tanker strikes in the Arabian Gulf, resulting from the Iran war.

Experts have cautioned that oil spills and toxic debris from such attacks could be harmful to the environment and wildlife for years.

Police chief reassures public

Sharjah's police chief on Tuesday offered reassurances after complaints about an unusual smell spreading in some emirates.

Lt Gen Abdullah bin Amer told Sharjah's Direct Line radio programme on Tuesday afternoon that the situation was stable and posed no threat. Sharjah Police did not say what was causing the smell when asked by The National.

“We have noted complaints from some members of the public about odours spreading across Sharjah and neighbouring emirates," said Lt Gen bin Amer.

"We would like to reassure the public that the situation is safe and stable and that there is nothing posing a threat. The relevant federal authorities are investigating the matter, and we will provide updates as they become available.”

Dubai Police and the emirate's municipality have also been contacted for comment.

Updated:

October 21, 2026, 4:32 AM