Dubai residents can apply to adopt a cat or dog through the Dubai Municipality website or Dubai Now application.
Cats are accommodated at the Animal Welfare Shelter in Warsan, while dogs are housed at the Al Khawaneej Veterinary Clinic. Animals include strays, abandoned or surrendered pets, rescues and lost animals that could not be reunited with their owners.
Not every animal entering a shelter is immediately available for adoption. Each undergoes medical and behavioural assessment, with treatment and rehabilitation provided where necessary. Veterinary services may include vaccination, deworming, microchipping and sterilisation.
Applicants can browse available animals and review their health and behavioural information online. They must be at least 21, have no recorded animal-abuse or mistreatment violations and demonstrate that they can provide suitable accommodation, veterinary care, nutrition and long-term support.
There is no adoption fee, although adopters must pay the prescribed vaccination, registration and related veterinary-service charges. Final verification and an in-person assessment are required before the animal is handed over.
An application can be processed within approximately one hour after the required steps are completed. Collection may be arranged within two working days, subject to eligibility checks and the animal being ready for adoption.
The shelters are not general surrender facilities for privately owned pets. Stray, injured or distressed animals should be reported through Dubai Municipality on 800900 before being taken to a shelter.