Residents report headaches and allergy-like symptoms amid persistent odour, while authorities say there is no threat and monitoring continues.
Residents in at least four emirates have reported unusually strong odours over the past few days, with some describing a smell similar to fuel or kerosene. While some residents reported discomfort, others changed their usual routines in response.
Dubai resident Sarah said she and her son experienced allergy-like symptoms earlier this week.
“Initially, I didn’t notice the smell,” she said. “Once I picked my son from school and got back home on Monday, we both began sneezing as soon the outside air hit our face. Throughout the day, we had a runny nose and itchy eyes. Then on Tuesday, when we went to the Barsha area, we could smell the odour as well.”
Sarah was among several residents who reported noticing the odour. Some also took to social media to discuss its possible source.
Several UAE authorities have said there is “no cause for concern” and that they are coordinating with relevant entities to investigate the cause.
On Wednesday, the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment reassured the public that assessments had found no indications of concern. It added that response efforts and field monitoring were continuing to reduce the odours and “accelerate their dissipation”.
On Tuesday, Sharjah Police also addressed the issue, saying the situation was under control and did not pose a threat.
Change of plans
Some residents said the smell prompted them to alter their usual routines and plans.
Umm Al Quwain resident Lois said the odour was so strong that she decided not to take her dogs for a walk on Tuesday.
“I could feel a metallic taste in my mouth,” she said. “I shut all the doors and windows and we all stayed indoors the whole day.”
Sharjah resident Khawla said her family decided not to cook on Monday evening because they feared their cooking gas might be leaking.
“The smell was so strong that we all got worried,” she said. “We checked the gas cylinder multiple times but could not find any issue. We didn’t want to take a chance, so we ordered food. Later, when we searched online, we found on various messaging boards that several others had faced the same issue.”
Another resident said he sought medical attention for a headache. Umm Al Quwain resident Majid said he developed a migraine after noticing the strong smell for two days, with symptoms worsening on Tuesday.
“The smell is better now but has yet to completely go away. I hope authorities can resolve the matter as soon as possible.”
