A seismic event measuring 4.3 magnitude occurred in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province at 2:11 AM local time on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. According to meteorological authorities, the earthquake originated at a depth of 50 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) confirmed that the tremors were confined to Saudi territory and did not extend to the United Arab Emirates. Seismic monitoring stations across the Emirates reported no detectable ground movement, and residents experienced no disruption from the geological event.
This incident follows a pattern of similar seismic activity in the region. Earlier in April 2025, both nations recorded a comparable magnitude earthquake in the Arabian Sea near Saudi borders. Seismologists attribute these periodic events to tectonic stresses along ancient fault lines caused by the constant movement of the Arabian Plate against the Eurasian Plate.
Despite the UAE’s location outside major seismic zones, the country occasionally experiences minor tremors due to its proximity to the seismically active Zagros mountain range. This geological formation, spanning Iran and Iraq, ranks among the world’s most dynamically unstable regions. Recent months have witnessed several regional seismic events, including a 4.6 magnitude quake south of Musandam in November and a 3.3 magnitude event in Bahrain during December, none of which impacted the Emirates.
Seismic experts note that while the Northern Emirates might occasionally perceive distant tremors, the country’s infrastructure remains well-protected against significant seismic risks. The NCM maintains continuous monitoring through its advanced National Seismic Network, providing real-time data on geological activity throughout the region.