Where to adopt a cat in the UAE, from rescue groups to government shelters

There’s no denying the joy that a cat (or two) can bring to your life. That's why it's the perfect opportunity to consider adopting one, as there are many that still need permanent homes.

For those who are unsure of the adoption process, it generally involves filling out paperwork, being interviewed and potentially having your home checked. The pet being adopted will be spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped, depending on its age.

So, if you're still considering adding a cat to your home, here’s a list of rescue groups and organisations in the UAE where you can adopt, or even foster one.

Nine Lives

The group is run by volunteers in Dubai who look to rehome animals in need. Before being put up for adoption, all cats go through a health check that includes tests for viruses, spaying or neutering, microchipping, vaccination and any other follow-up treatment.

More information at www.ninelives.ae

Furballs Rescue

Furballs UAE is a self-funded rescue group in Dubai founded by Emirati sisters Fatima and Sarah Alzaaki. All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped and tested for viruses before going up for adoption.

More information at www.instagram.com/furrballs_cats

RAK Animal Welfare Centre

The shelter, which is supported by the government of Ras Al Khaimah and opened in 2010, looks to rehome socialised, trained and healthy cats and dogs. All animals are spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated and microchipped. The centre also has a physical site in Al Jazira, which is open from Satuday to Thursday, from 9am to noon and 3pm to 6pm. There is also a dog park.

More information at rakawc.com

Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter

The Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter is managed by Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and has been operational since 2010. All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and treated for fleas and worms before going up for adoption. Those looking for a specific breed can also use the “Wish a Pet” section of the website to fill out a form, in case that specific cat becomes available.

The shelter is in Al Shamkha and the hours of operation are Monday to Thursday, 8am to 3.30pm, Friday, 8am to noon. It is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

More information at www.abudhabianimalshelter.com

Animals and Us

The registered non-profit animal shelter in Fujairah was founded by resident Michelle Francis in 2006. Over its years of operation, it has helped many dogs and cats and is always looking for homes or people willing to foster its numerous rescues.

More information at http://aauf.ae

Bubbles Pet Rescue

The animal welfare organisation is run by a group of Emiratis who rescue and rehome neglected, abandoned and abused animals. All animals are spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped before being put up for adoption.

More information at www.instagram.com/bubbles.petsrescue

Sharjah Cats and Dog Shelter

The Sharjah Cats and Dogs Shelter is a non-profit that rescues abandoned pets and finds them homes. They have a physical location on Airport Road in Muzairah and are open to walk-in visitors from Monday to Thursday, 7.30pm to 3.30pm. All pets will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

More information at epaashj.ae

AI traffic lights to ease congestion at seven points to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street

The seven points are:

Shakhbout bin Sultan Street

Dhafeer Street

Hadbat Al Ghubainah Street (outbound)

Salama bint Butti Street

Al Dhafra Street

Rabdan Street

Umm Yifina Street exit (inbound)

'C'mon C'mon'

Director:Mike Mills

Stars:Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, Woody Norman

Rating: 4/5

Indoor Cricket World Cup - Sept 16-20, Insportz, Dubai

Your Guide to the Home

Level 1 has a valet service if you choose not to park in the basement level. This level houses all the kitchenware, including covetable brand French Bull, along with a wide array of outdoor furnishings, lamps and lighting solutions, textiles like curtains, towels, cushions and bedding, and plenty of other home accessories.
Level 2 features curated inspiration zones and solutions for bedrooms, living rooms and dining spaces. This is also where you’d go to customise your sofas and beds, and pick and choose from more than a dozen mattress options.
Level 3 features The Home’s “man cave” set-up and a display of industrial and rustic furnishings. This level also has a mother’s room, a play area for children with staff to watch over the kids, furniture for nurseries and children’s rooms, and the store’s design studio.

How to turn your property into a holiday home

Ensure decoration and styling – and portal photography – quality is high to achieve maximum rates.
Research equivalent Airbnb homes in your location to ensure competitiveness.
Post on all relevant platforms to reach the widest audience; whether you let personally or via an agency know your potential guest profile – aiming for the wrong demographic may leave your property empty.
Factor in costs when working out if holiday letting is beneficial. The annual DCTM fee runs from Dh370 for a one-bedroom flat to Dh1,200. Tourism tax is Dh10-15 per bedroom, per night.
Check your management company has a physical office, a valid DTCM licence and is licencing your property and paying tourism taxes. For transparency, regularly view your booking calendar.