For many abandoned cats across the UAE, one familiar face has become a symbol of hope. Abdulkarim Ismail Al Zarouni, an Emirati born and raised in Dubai, has dedicated years of his life to rescuing and caring for stray and abandoned animals.
Today, nearly 30 street cats regularly gather at feeding stations near his home, where they are provided food and care. Some of the animals even find temporary shelter inside his house. Caring for them has become a family effort, with his mother and children actively helping in the daily routine.
Abdulkarim says he grew up witnessing abandoned and dumped animals struggling to survive on the streets. Unable to ignore their plight, he began rescuing cats on his own and assisting animals in distress whenever possible.
Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 radio station, brings you the story of a Dubai resident whose compassion is making a difference in the lives of countless animals.
Recognising that larger solutions were needed, Abdulkarim and his partner launched Amal CSR in 2024. Initially volunteer-driven, the initiative now has dedicated funding and works on both animal welfare and environmental sustainability projects.
The organisation rescues animals found in deserts, construction sites, industrial areas and public parks, where many pets are abandoned after their owners leave the country. Volunteers coordinate rescue operations, transportation and veterinary treatment, often responding within hours when an animal in need is reported.
A key part of their work involves the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programme, a humane method used to manage stray cat populations by sterilising and returning animals to their territories.
Despite the high costs of veterinary treatment, food and transportation, Abdulkarim continues his efforts, believing that compassion should be a shared community responsibility.
Beyond animal welfare, Amal CSR also supports environmental initiatives, including tree planting and projects aimed at improving urban ecosystems and community wellbeing.
For Abdulkarim, the mission is simple: caring for animals and caring for the environment go hand in hand, both contributing to a better and more compassionate world.
