Dubai’s Ehsan Stations provide hundreds of meals to stray animals across the city

UAE Official13 May 2026

Dubai’s Ehsan Stations provide hundreds of meals to stray animals across the city

A hungry stray cat wandering through a Dubai park does not have to wait for scraps or water from passersby any longer – all thanks to Dubai Municipality

Source: OFFICIAL UAE NEWS · Emirates 24/7

A hungry stray cat wandering through a Dubai park does not have to wait for scraps or water from passersby any longer – all thanks to Dubai Municipality’s new Ehsan Stations.

What are Ehsan Stations?

Artificial intelligence (AI) powered Ehsan Stations are the first of their kind in the region. These smart feeding stations use AI to identify stray animals, collect relevant data and dispense food accordingly.

According to Dubai Municipality, the initiative supports the responsible management of stray animal populations, and helps reduce random feeding practices that can lead to hygiene concerns, food waste, and environmental issues. It also promotes a more organised, sustainable approach to feeding stray animals.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy estimates Ehsan Stations provide 200 to 300 meals daily, at each Station.

How do Ehsan Stations work?

Ehsan Stations don’t just offer food and water to animals – they combine environmental best practices with animal welfare, and place community participation at the heart of the initiative.

The smart Stations operate through an intelligent system that runs on solar energy to pump food and water into designated bowls. They are equipped with advanced sensors to detect the presence of animals, monitor food and water levels, and ensure continuous supply.

The community can participate in operating these Stations efficiently. The machines permit people to deposit recyclable items, like plastic bottles or metal cans. For each item deposited, the user receives feeding credits, which can be used to dispense animal feed.

Users who frequent Ehsan Stations can also download the ‘Cycled Rewards’ app to redeem their reward points as shopping vouchers. The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The Stations use AI to monitor feeding patterns and recycling activity. The data collected is managed by the authorities to track usage, maintain the machines effectively, and ensure that animals are not being overfed.