Dubai/Sharjah: The UAE government has said it is 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 reported a strong smell similar to fuel or gas on social media and other platforms. "Response efforts and field monitoring remain ongoing to reduce the odours and accelerate their dissipation," the ministry said in a statement. It 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, with experts cautioning that oil spills and toxic debris from such attacks could be harmful to the environment and wildlife for years.

Sharjah's police chief, Lt. Gen. Abdullah bin Amer, offered reassurances on Tuesday, telling Sharjah's Direct Line radio programme that the situation was stable and posed no threat. "We have noted complaints from some members of the public about odours spreading across Sharjah and neighbouring emirates," he said. "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.

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