Our Story
Built from compassion, community, and the belief that every rescued life deserves safety and a second chance.
2,500+
Cats Rescued
550+
Cats in Care
How It Began
Compassion That Became a Mission
Dubai Street Kitties was created from a shared belief that compassion has the power to transform lives - not only for animals, but for the communities around them.
Founded by Dina Taji and her local Emirati partner, our sanctuary began with two women simply trying to help injured and abandoned cats found on the streets of the UAE. What started as individual rescues soon grew into a much larger mission built on responsibility, structure, education, and community support.
Over the past two years alone, we have rescued more than 2,500 cats, and today we continue caring for over 550 rescued cats who rely on us daily for medical treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and safe shelter.
Every cat we rescue represents a story that many people never see - kittens abandoned in boxes, injured cats found on highways, mothers struggling to protect their babies, and animals left sick, starving, or suffering alone. Behind every recovery is an enormous amount of teamwork, veterinary care, emotional dedication, and community involvement.
Having lived in the UAE for more than 20 years, Dina considers this country home. Dubai Street Kitties was built from a desire to contribute positively to the society and community that has given us so much. We believe the UAE represents innovation, compassion, progress, and unity, and we are proud to support that vision through animal welfare, education, and responsible rescue efforts.
Our mission is not driven by judgment or criticism. Stray animal overpopulation and abandonment are global challenges faced by cities around the world. Shelters everywhere struggle to keep up with the growing numbers of animals needing help. Real change cannot happen through one person or one organization alone - it happens when communities come together.
That is why we share our rescue stories online:
- to raise awareness,
- to encourage compassion,
- to inspire adoption and fostering,
- and to remind people that even small acts of kindness can save lives.
We believe every individual has something valuable to contribute. Some people adopt. Some foster. Some volunteer. Some help educate others. Some simply choose kindness toward the animals around them. Every effort matters.
Our long-term vision is to create a world-class sanctuary and rehabilitation center in the UAE - a safe, peaceful, and innovative environment designed for rescued animals requiring long-term care and recovery.
Our Future
A Sanctuary Built for Healing
We envision a sanctuary with:
More than anything, we want to build a model centered around humanity, structure, education, and collaboration.
We believe the future of animal welfare is not built through division - it is built through unity between rescuers, veterinarians, communities, businesses, and government support working together toward sustainable solutions.
Together, we hope to create a future where more animals are safe, protected, and given the second chance they deserve.