As uncertainty spreads in parts of the Middle East, thousands of pets in Dubai are facing abandonment, drawing urgent attention to the growing crisis affecting both people and their animals.

In recent weeks, many expatriates — including large numbers of British nationals — have chosen to leave the emirate amid rising regional tensions. However, animal welfare groups say the sudden departures have created a heartbreaking situation for domestic animals, with shelters reporting a sharp increase in the number of abandoned dogs and cats.

Shelters Reaching Breaking Point

Animal rescue organisations say they are now overwhelmed by the number of pets being handed over or found roaming the streets. With flight disruptions and complicated relocation procedures making it difficult to transport animals abroad, some owners have felt forced to leave their pets behind.

At one sanctuary in the UAE, staff say they have reached maximum capacity, with more animals being left behind at shelter gates or found wandering than ever before.

Anso Stander, who runs the self-funded Six Hounds Animal Sanctuary in Al Ain, says the surge in abandoned animals has been “deeply concerning.”

According to her, many pets are being surrendered due to emergency relocations, high veterinary costs, and the complex paperwork required for international animal transport. She notes that during times of crisis, pets are often among the first casualties of sudden lifestyle changes.

Travel Restrictions Add to the Problem

With limited flight services and some airlines temporarily refusing to transport animals, relocating pets has become increasingly difficult. In addition, certain health requirements — such as rabies vaccinations — can delay travel plans by weeks, creating further complications for those attempting to leave quickly.

Even before the current situation, shelters in the UAE were dealing with cases involving neglected or abused animals, as well as breeders discarding unwanted litters. The present circumstances have only intensified an already challenging environment.

Stander says she frequently receives desperate messages from residents asking for help. On one occasion, she recalls receiving 27 requests in a single day from people hoping the sanctuary could take in their pets. Some families, she says, are trying to rehome large numbers of animals before departing the country.

Photo: unsplash.com/@ahmedzaki25

Emotional Stories From the Frontline

Volunteers recount distressing scenes, such as newborn kittens left outside shelter entrances with handwritten notes explaining their owners’ sudden departure. The sanctuary is currently caring for hundreds of cats and dozens of dogs and is also involved in rehoming rescued puppies.

Despite their efforts, limited funding and rising veterinary bills have placed a severe strain on rescue organisations. Staff say they urgently need financial support to build emergency enclosures and cover essential costs such as food and medical care.

There have also been troubling reports of healthy pets being put down after owners declined to manage the expense and logistics of relocation. In some extreme cases, animals have reportedly been harmed or abandoned in remote areas.

Financial Pressures and Fund-Raising Challenges

Claire Hopkins, a Dubai resident who volunteers with several rescue groups, explains that strict regulations on public fundraising make it difficult for shelters to raise funds. Online crowd-funding platforms commonly used elsewhere are not permitted in the UAE, leaving many organisations struggling to meet demand.

She adds that while some owners are responsibly rehoming their pets, others are panicking and making rushed decisions. The issue affects people from many different nationalities living in the country.

Social Media Controversy Highlights Debate

The situation recently sparked widespread online discussion after a social media influencer was criticised by an animal welfare organisation for leaving her dog in Dubai while travelling abroad. The influencer later clarified that the pet was being cared for by a trusted nanny and insisted the trip was temporary, not a permanent move.

The incident drew mixed reactions, with some condemning the decision and others urging greater understanding of the complexities involved in transporting animals during uncertain times.

A Call for Compassion

Rescue workers warn that the crisis underscores the urgent need for responsible pet ownership and emergency planning. They urge residents to make long-term arrangements for their pets to prevent future abandonment. They continue to work around the clock, hoping that increased community support will help them provide safe homes for the growing number of animals in need.