Table of Contents
ToggleMagnitude 4.6 Earthquake Near Musandam Felt in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah; No Damage Reported
On the afternoon of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, residents in the northern UAE felt the unmistakable rumble of the earth as a magnitude 4.6 earthquake struck near the Musandam Peninsula. The quake, which occurred at approximately 4:40 PM UAE time, was confirmed by the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), which operates a sophisticated seismic network.
The epicenter was located just south of the Omani exclave of Musandam, a region bordering the northern Emirates. A key factor in the tremor being felt across the UAE was its very shallow depth of around 5 km. This shallow nature allowed the seismic energy to travel efficiently across the terrain, reaching parts of the United Arab Emirates, particularly the emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
Despite the noticeable vibration reported by residents and on social media, authorities were quick to reassure the public. Both the NCM and local media confirmed there were no reports of damage to infrastructure or any injuries. The impact within the UAE was classified as negligible.
Why the Northern UAE Feels Earthquakes
While the UAE itself is not located on a major fault line, its proximity to one of the most seismically active zones in the Middle East makes it susceptible to feeling tremors. The geological reason lies in the ongoing collision of the Arabian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This massive tectonic interaction is responsible for the formation of the Zagros Mountains in Iran and generates frequent seismic activity.
When earthquakes occur in this region—especially at shallow depths like the November 4 event—the seismic waves can travel hundreds of kilometers through the Earth’s crust. The northern Emirates, connected to these geological structures, act as a receiver for this energy, translating distant or nearby quakes into perceptible shaking.
Also Read: Abu Dhabi AI Summit Sounds Alarm: Nearly 4 Billion People Face Digital Exclusion
Context and Reassurance: UAE’s Preparedness
This event is not an isolated incident. Minor tremors have been recorded in the region before, such as a magnitude 3.3 quake in Fujairah earlier in the same year. These events serve as reminders of the broader tectonic context but are not an indication of an imminent, large earthquake.
The UAE’s response highlighted its advanced seismic monitoring capabilities. The NCM’s systems detected the quake in real-time, allowing for immediate analysis and public communication. The core message from officials was one of calm, emphasizing that the country’s infrastructure is designed to withstand such minor seismic activity and that there was no cause for alarm.
Earthquake Safety Tips for UAE Residents
Although this tremor passed without consequence, the event underscores the importance of public awareness. Authorities recommend that residents familiarize themselves with basic earthquake safety procedures:
If you are indoors: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Stay away from windows, hanging objects, and glass. Do not use elevators.
If you are outdoors: Move to an open area away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.
If you are driving: Pull over to a safe location and stop. Avoid stopping under overpasses, bridges, or power lines.
Once the shaking stops, check for gas leaks and switch off electricity at the main if you suspect damage.
Conclusion: Vigilance and Calm
The magnitude 4.6 earthquake near Musandam was a tangible reminder of the dynamic geological forces shaping the Gulf region. However, it also successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s monitoring systems and public communication protocols. For residents of Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, the event concluded as a brief, curious occurrence, backed by the official reassurance that they remain safe and that the systems in place are functioning as designed. The key takeaway is to stay informed through official channels like the NCM and to maintain a level of preparedness for any natural event.
