Dubai Municipality has launched the 'Ehsan Stations,' the first initiative of its kind in the region designed to feed stray animals using AI-powered smart devices installed across the emirate. Naseem Mohammed Rafee, Acting CEO of the Environment, Health and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, said, 'The launch of ‘Ehsan Stations’ for feeding stray animals, including cats and others, reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to promoting humane and civilized values, foremost among them compassion and animal welfare. These stations combine food provision with more effective management of stray animal populations and address random feeding practices that can lead to environmental, health, and community challenges.' She added that the current phase represents a pilot stage, during which the stations will be tested and evaluated to guide further development. Under the initiative, 12 smart devices will be deployed across key locations, including ten units in public parks and two within facilities operated by Dubai Holding. The AI-based system can identify stray animals, collect data, and dispense food accordingly. The stations also encourage recycling and support a more organized, sustainable approach to feeding stray animals. By minimizing unregulated feeding, the initiative contributes to public health protection, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability, while helping maintain biodiversity balance. Some animals are made available for adoption through the Dubai Municipality website. Residents are also urged to follow best practices in caring for pets, ensuring their safety when away from home, and to report any risks or concerns related to stray animals by contacting 800900. The initiative builds on Dubai Municipality’s broader animal welfare efforts, including the ‘Fountains of Mercy’ project, which plans to install 50 fountains for birds and wildlife. All units have been designed and manufactured in the UAE using advanced technologies. Dubai Municipality employs a scientific and humane approach to managing stray animals, operating a temporary shelter and implementing Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) programs.
