Dubai isn’t just a city of skyscrapers and sunshine – it’s home to one of the Middle East’s most passionate pet communities. As pet ownership surges and attitudes shift toward viewing animals as family, a supportive network of shelters, businesses and volunteers has emerged. TEEF Pet Services thrives in this environment because we see firsthand how devoted owners, rescue groups and local retailers work together.
A growing and diverse pet population
A U.S. Foreign Agricultural Service report notes that the pet population in the UAE grew from 588,700 pets in 2014 to 938,000 in 2024, and pet food sales more than tripled. This boom reflects changing attitudes – dogs and cats are now widely accepted as family members, and owners invest in premium food and care. The Gulf’s cultural heritage means more cats than dogs are kept as pets, and beautiful breeds like the Egyptian Mau and the Saluki still flourish. While dogs were historically used for hunting, they are now companions, and many owners choose small breeds better suited to city living.
Why community support matters
Much of the pet industry’s expansion is fuelled by expatriates, who often relocate and leave pets behind. When departing families can’t rehome their animals, they contribute to the region’s population of stray cats and dogs. Local businesses and volunteers have responded: private individuals organise Trap‑Neuter‑Return (TNR) programmes, and pet companies donate food and supplies. Because residents come and go, vets, kennels and pet shops must continually build relationships and maintain a loyal customer community.
Rescue and adoption network
Dubai hosts a robust network of rescue groups and adoption centres. Well‑known organisations like K9 Friends, Stray Dogs Center, 38smiles, Amanda’s Animal Rescue and SNIFF Middle East rehome abandoned pets, arrange fostering and host adoption events. Many operate as non‑profits and rely on volunteers, donations and partnerships with businesses. For a detailed list, see our guide.
Businesses that build community
Retailers such as Pet’s Delight and The Pet Shop Dubai combine online and brick‑and‑mortar stores and offer grooming, kennels and pet relocation services. Pet’s Delight, founded in 2005, has grown into a chain at the heart of local neighbourhoods; it provides free nutrition consultations, grooming and a loyalty programme. These businesses host events, educate owners and partner with rescue groups. Our article on the article explains how shops contribute to local culture.
Celebrating shared experiences
Events and meetups – Pet festivals, adoption days and training workshops bring Dubai’s pet lovers together. From charity dog walks and cat adoption fairs to seasonal festivals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, there’s always an event where owners can socialise, learn and support good causes.
Educational resources – Because of the extreme climate and transient population, education is critical. TEEF and other local companies publish articles on topics like safe summer dog walking (here), preparing cats for a pet sitter (here) and heatstroke prevention. These resources draw on veterinary guidelines and emphasise the pet humanisation trend. Our guide to the benefits of hiring professional pet sitters (here) shows how personalised care reduces stress for pets.
How Teef contributes to the community
At TEEF Pet Services, we collaborate with rescue organisations by promoting adoption drives and offering discounted services for fostered pets. Our team participates in TNR initiatives and volunteers at adoption events. We host free webinars on dog behaviour, cat stress reduction and summer safety, and we provide professional services for dog walking and services for pet sitting to help owners maintain their pets’ routines.
How you can get involved
- Adopt or foster: Adopt or foster from organisations like K9 Friends and Stray Dogs Center.
- Volunteer and donate: Rescue groups need volunteers and donations of money, food and supplies.
- Attend events and spread the word: Join pet festivals, adoption days and charity walks, and share events on social media.
- Support local businesses: Shop at pet stores that reinvest in the community and use services like TEEF.
- Stay informed: Read guides on exercising dogs in the UAE heat (here), essential gear for dog walks (here) and reducing cat stress (here).
Conclusion
Dubai’s pet community is defined by compassion, resilience and cooperation. A booming pet population and diverse cultural influences have given rise to rescue centres, pet‑friendly businesses and enthusiastic volunteers, and TEEF is proud to be part of it. By supporting local organisations, attending events and sharing knowledge, pet owners can ensure that Dubai remains a welcoming and nurturing city for animals.
