Some Dubai residents have welcomed a new initiative aimed at supporting stray animals, after the launch of the ‘Ehsan Stations’ programme by Dubai Municipality, which introduces AI-powered feeding stations for strays across the emirate.
The initiative uses smart devices designed to identify stray animals and dispense food automatically, while also collecting data to help authorities better understand and manage stray populations. The project is currently being rolled out through 12 stations installed in selected locations across the emirate, including public parks and facilities operated by Dubai Holding.
For many residents involved in animal welfare, the initiative represents a step toward a more organised and humane approach to caring for stray animals. Entrepreneur Lorna Bancroft said she was encouraged to see technology being used to address the issue.
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“I think it’s a very positive and progressive step,” she said. “The fact that Dubai Municipality is exploring technology and innovation to support animal welfare shows a real commitment to improving the situation for stray animals.”
Lorna Bancroft
However, she noted that feeding programmes alone cannot solve the wider challenge of stray animal populations.
“The key issue is population control, so feeding initiatives need to go hand-in-hand with strong neutering programmes to prevent numbers from increasing,” Bancroft added. She also highlighted the role played by volunteers who already dedicate significant time and resources to caring for stray animals across communities.
Long-time cat rescuer Steve Carpenter, from Wales, also expressed support for the initiative, saying structured feeding can make a significant difference when properly managed. Carpenter has lived in the region for 13 years and previously helped run a feeding and rescue programme during the site’s preparation for Expo 2020 Dubai.
Carpenter added that communities involved in rescue work would welcome the expansion of the programme, but emphasised that long-term success depends on pairing feeding stations with Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) programmes to stabilise stray populations.
Steve Carpenter
Animal lovers echoed similar views. Deepika Vasanth, a pet owner who cares for several animals at home, said the initiative reflects the country’s growing commitment to animal welfare.
“It’s really nice to see something being done for stray animals in a more organised way,” she said. “There are so many people who want to help, but don’t always know the best way to do it, so having structured feeding stations is a positive step.”
Deepika Vasanth
She added that while feeding stations can improve welfare by providing reliable food sources, they should be combined with sterilisation programmes and adoption campaigns to create long-term solutions.
Source: Khaleej Times