Animals in Dubai left behind as some expats flee

Some expatriates leaving Dubai amid regional tensions have reportedly abandoned pets, local shelters say they are overwhelmed, and Dubai Municipality has launched a pilot 'Ehsan Stations' program to feed stray animals.

Some expatriates in Dubai have reportedly left pets behind as they depart the city amid regional tensions. Local animal shelters and veterinarians report increased numbers of abandoned animals and urgent demand for help. Shelters such as K9 Friends and Six Hounds say they are overwhelmed, underfunded and understaffed. Dubai Municipality announced a pilot program called 'Ehsan Stations' to identify and feed stray animals. Reported facts: - Some residents leaving Dubai amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran have been reported to leave cats and dogs behind. - Shelters including K9 Friends and Six Hounds have published appeals saying they are overloaded and receiving daily requests. - Dubai Municipality announced a pilot of 12 AI-based 'Ehsan Stations' intended to identify and feed stray animals across the city. - UAE law criminalises abandoning pets, with penalties that can include fines and imprisonment according to UAE legislation. - Several social media posts and images have circulated showing animals left outside homes or public areas; at least one alleged owner disputed a viral image. Summary: Shelters and vets report growing strain as animals are reportedly left behind, and Dubai Municipality is testing the Ehsan Stations pilot to address stray feeding and identification. Further developments or broader official measures are undetermined at this time.