Residents and animal rescuers view the smart feeding stations as a positive development but emphasize that sterilization programs are essential to control stray animal populations.
Some Dubai residents have welcomed a new initiative supporting stray animals following the launch of the ‘Ehsan Stations’ programme by Dubai Municipality. The project introduces AI-powered feeding stations for strays across the emirate.
These smart stations are equipped to identify stray animals and dispense food automatically, while also gathering data to help authorities monitor and manage stray populations more effectively. Currently, the programme is being implemented through 12 stations at selected locations, including public parks and facilities managed by Dubai Holding.
For many residents engaged in animal welfare, the initiative marks a move toward a more organized and compassionate approach to caring for stray animals. Entrepreneur Lorna Bancroft expressed optimism, saying she was heartened to see technology being harnessed to tackle the issue.
“I see it as a very positive and forward-thinking step,” she said. “Dubai Municipality’s use of technology and innovation to support animal welfare demonstrates a genuine commitment to improving conditions for stray animals.”
However, she cautioned that feeding programmes alone cannot address the broader challenge of stray animal populations.
“The key issue is population control, so feeding initiatives must be complemented by robust neutering programmes to prevent numbers from rising,” Bancroft added. She also highlighted the vital role of volunteers who dedicate significant time and resources to caring for stray animals across communities.
Long-time cat rescuer Steve Carpenter, originally from Wales, also voiced support for the initiative, noting that structured feeding can make a meaningful difference when properly managed. Carpenter, who has lived in the region for 13 years, previously helped run a feeding and rescue programme during preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai.
He added that communities involved in rescue work would welcome the programme’s expansion, but stressed that long-term success depends on pairing feeding stations with Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) efforts to stabilize stray populations.
Animal lovers shared similar sentiments. Deepika Vasanth, a pet owner who cares for several animals at home, said the initiative reflects the country’s increasing commitment to animal welfare.
“It’s encouraging to see stray animals being supported in a more organized way,” she said. “Many people want to help but aren’t always sure how, so having structured feeding stations is a really positive step.”
She added that while feeding stations help improve animal welfare by providing reliable food sources, they need to be paired with sterilization programmes and adoption campaigns to deliver long-term solutions.
