Dubai launches AI-powered ‘Ehsan Stations’ to feed stray animals across 12 locations
Smart feeding devices installed across parks and facilities
DUBAI – Dubai Municipality has launched the ‘Ehsan Stations’ initiative, a first-of-its-kind project in the region aimed at feeding stray animals through artificial intelligence-powered smart devices installed across the emirate.
The initiative is designed to strengthen Dubai’s culture of compassion while advancing animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
The programme combines modern technology with responsible urban management, reflecting the municipality’s broader efforts to preserve Dubai’s urban landscape and promote community awareness about the proper care of stray animals.
As part of the first phase, 12 smart feeding stations will be installed in strategic locations across the city. Ten units will be placed in public parks, while two additional stations will operate within facilities managed by Dubai Holding. The stations aim to create a structured and organised system for feeding stray animals, particularly cats, while discouraging random feeding practices that can negatively affect public spaces.
Smart stations
The Ehsan Stations rely on an advanced AI-based system capable of identifying stray animals before dispensing food. The technology can also collect relevant data on animal activity, helping authorities better understand patterns and improve future management strategies.
The initiative introduces a more sustainable approach to feeding stray animals by encouraging responsible practices while maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of public areas. By reducing unsupervised feeding, the system also supports proactive public health protection and contributes to preserving environmental balance and biodiversity.
Dr Naseem Mohammed Rafee, Acting CEO of the Environment, Health and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to promoting humane values and responsible environmental practices across the emirate.
“The launch of ‘Ehsan Stations’ for feeding stray animals, including cats and others, reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to promoting humane and civilised values across the emirate, foremost among them compassion and animal welfare,” she said.
Dr Rafee added that the initiative also supports efforts to maintain ecological balance and advance sustainable practices that reinforce Dubai’s position as a progressive and liveable global city. Through the stations, Dubai Municipality is introducing a modern approach that combines feeding with improved management of stray animal populations while addressing challenges caused by random feeding.
Pilot phase
According to the municipality, the current stage of the project will serve as a pilot phase, allowing authorities to monitor the performance of the stations and evaluate their effectiveness. Insights gathered during this stage will guide future improvements and potential expansion of the initiative across the emirate.
Dr Rafee noted that all feeding stations have been designed and manufactured in the UAE, using advanced technologies that support efficiency, durability and long-term sustainability.
The project is part of Dubai Municipality’s broader strategy to adopt science-based and humane methods in managing stray and free-roaming animals across the city.
Animal welfare
Dubai Municipality operates a temporary shelter that receives stray animals after they are collected from different areas of the city. The facility provides basic care and medical support while ensuring animals are handled in line with international welfare standards.
The municipality also implements the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programme and, in certain cases, the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) programme. These programmes involve trapping stray animals, particularly cats, neutering and vaccinating them, and then returning them to their original locations provided they do not pose a risk to public safety.
In addition to population management programmes, some animals are also made available for adoption through the Dubai Municipality website as part of ongoing animal welfare initiatives.
Residents who own pets are encouraged to follow best health and care practices and ensure animals are treated humanely, especially when travelling or leaving home for extended periods.
The municipality also urged residents to report any risks or concerns related to stray animals by contacting 800900, enabling authorities to respond promptly and maintain safe community environments.
The Ehsan Stations initiative builds on Dubai Municipality’s wider efforts to strengthen environmental responsibility and animal welfare across the emirate. Among these projects is the ‘Fountains of Mercy’ programme, which plans to install 50 water fountains designed to provide drinking water for birds and wildlife.
Under the plan, 25 fountains will be located in urban areas, while 25 additional fountains will be installed in desert environments to support wildlife. The project is being implemented using durable materials and environmental best practices to ensure sustainability and ease of maintenance.