The Best Places to Adopt Pets in the UAE
If you're considering adding a pet to your family, the UAE has several reputable adoption centers where you can find your new best friend. These organizations are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned or stray animals while promoting responsible pet ownership.
1. Stray Dogs Center UAQ
Stray Dogs Center UAQ, a licensed non-profit established in 2013 in Umm Al Quwain, operates with a strict “no-kill” policy. They’ve rehomed over 7,500 dogs and care for more than 1,300 animals, including cats and donkeys. Adoption fees range from AED 500 to AED 1,500, depending on the dog’s length of stay.
Contact: +971 6 579 5997 | Email: operations@sdc-uaq.com
2. Ras Al Khaimah Animal Welfare Centre (RAK AWC)
RAK AWC, a non-profit supported by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, has rehomed over 3,000 pets since 2010. The center features an indoor cattery, a veterinary clinic, and the largest open-air dog park in the region. They also offer pet boarding and relocation services.
Contact: +971 7 243 3184 | Email: akawc@psd.rak.ae
3. Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter
Established in 2010 under the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, this shelter focuses on rehoming feral cats and stray dogs. Located at the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, they aim to meet international animal welfare standards.
Contact: +971 2 885 8100 | Email: adas@adfh.ae
4. Mussafah Dog Project (MDP)
MDP is a volunteer-driven initiative that helps stray animals in Abu Dhabi’s industrial zone through feeding programs, medical care, and TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts. They rely on community donations and volunteer involvement for fostering, transport, and adoption services.
5. Animals and Us Fujairah
Based in Fujairah and led by Michelle Mathanda, Animals and Us provides a safe haven for over 400 dogs and 90 cats. They organize adoption events in Dubai and run a pet sponsorship program. Adoption fees are AED 1,500.
Contact: contact@aauf.ae
6. Al Mayya K9 Adoptions and Kennels
This organization, endorsed by HRH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, rescues and rehomes dogs from diverse backgrounds. Located in Fujairah and the UK, they aim to match every dog with a loving home.
Contact: +971 56 687 2900 | Email: katherinemichelleignacio@yahoo.com
7. Red Paw Foundation
Operating under the Emirates Animal Welfare Society, Red Paw Foundation focuses on rescuing cats and dogs across the UAE. They offer TNR services, adoption days, and webinars on animal welfare. Volunteers can assist with fostering, rescue efforts, and awareness campaigns.
8. Yanni Animal Welfare
The first government-registered non-profit for animal welfare in Dubai, Yanni Animal Welfare focuses on rescuing and rehoming stray animals. They also conduct educational campaigns to promote responsible pet ownership.
Contact: +971 4 242 0660 | Email: info@yawdubai.com
9. K9 Friends
Since 1989, K9 Friends has been rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned dogs in Dubai. They offer health-assessed, vaccinated, and microchipped dogs for adoption, with fees ranging from AED 1,250 to AED 2,950.
Contact: +971 4 887 8739 | Email: info@k9friends.com
10. Cloud 9 Pet Hotel
Located in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, Cloud 9 Pet Hotel provides pet adoption services along with boarding facilities for cats and dogs.
Adopting a pet not only changes an animal's life but also enriches your own. Explore these adoption centers to find your perfect companion!
Read More: Here's How To Adopt A Pet in the UAE
Read More: Tips to Groom Your Furry Pet (kitties)