DUBAI: Aisha Rashid, a Pakistani expat in the UAE, is facing eviction from her Dubai apartment after she was ordered by her property management company to remove 65 rescued cats by October 2. The situation has escalated from what started as a temporary arrangement during the Covid-19 pandemic into a full-scale rescue operation that has consumed Rashid’s life and savings.
Rashid, who works in the auto loan disbursal department with a monthly salary of Dh7,000, initially began feeding stray cats during the pandemic. Over time, she took on the responsibility of caring for more cats, personally funding veterinary costs, and ensuring around 150 cats were neutered over the past six years. Despite the financial burden, which amounts to Dh4,000-5,000 a month on her cats’ care, she continued with her rescue efforts.
As her actions garnered attention, more cats were dumped near her building. The property management issued fines amounting to Dh8,000 and insisted that Rashid remove the animals or pay the fine and vacate the apartment, despite her having paid rent until December. With the deadline fast approaching, Rashid is desperately seeking alternative housing for the cats, but has faced challenges finding anyone willing to adopt or keep the stray cats.
Despite her struggles, Rashid remains committed to her cause, saying, “We are humans, and we have to take care of them. If they are sick, we must get them treated.” She is now appealing for help, hoping to find a villa or farmhouse where the cats could live more comfortably.
