The stray cat crisis in the UAE has reached alarming levels, and it's a problem that stems from several heartbreaking situations. One major factor is the breeding of cats—both legal and illegal—which forces animals to live in horrific conditions. Many breeders are solely driven by profit, keeping cats in filthy, cramped cages where they suffer without basic care. These cats, often fluffy breeds that require extra grooming, are neglected, living in their own waste, underfed, and even abused. They are bred repeatedly until they become sick or can no longer produce healthy kittens. Once they are no longer profitable, these poor animals are abandoned—most often in areas near the animal market, creating a growing population of strays.

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Then, there are the compassionate people who come to the UAE for work. Many of them encounter stray cats on the streets and try to help, even though their financial resources are limited. Unfortunately, when they lose their jobs or must return to their home countries, they’re forced to leave these cats behind, hoping someone else will take over their care.

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And let’s not forget the individuals who adopt cats, sometimes with good intentions but lacking the necessary experience or empathy. Many adopt kittens for their children or as companions during lonely times, but when the responsibility becomes too much, these cats often find themselves abandoned once again, left to survive outside despite having grown up in homes.

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As a result, certain areas across the UAE have become known as dumping grounds for cats, where sick and healthy animals mix, leading to the rapid spread of diseases. In the face of this crisis, rescuers are doing everything they can, often using their own money to treat, rehabilitate, and rehome these animals. But the sheer number of abandoned cats makes this a never-ending cycle—one that requires a systematic solution, which can only be achieved through collaboration with the government.

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Rescuers in the UAE have developed invaluable experience over the years, and we believe this knowledge can greatly benefit efforts to build a new, sustainable infrastructure. Through education and awareness, we can come together as a community to tackle this issue head-on. Not only will this resolve the crisis, but it will also showcase the true heart of the UAE, reflecting the compassion, respect, and kindness at the core of Islamic values.

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This presentation will break down the challenges we face, the key issues that need attention, and solutions that can create a real, lasting impact. We believe that with the right infrastructure and a united effort, the UAE can serve as a model for other countries to follow. Let’s be the example, let’s be the change, and let’s show the world what we stand for—because this is not just about solving a crisis, but about embodying the principles of compassion and responsibility that represent the people of the UAE.