Bring your pet: Abu Dhabi's free Pet Lovers' Gathering runs September 25 to 27

Abu Dhabi pet owners are invited to a free three-day gathering this weekend at Al Shamkha Square from Friday 25 September to Sunday 27 September. No registration is required in advance. The event runs from 5pm to 9pm each evening, giving owners flexibility to attend after work or over the weekend.

Visitors can look forward to pet adoption opportunities, on-site registration for current pet owners, awareness workshops, entertainment shows, and interactive activities. While the detailed schedule has not been released, it is recommended to check on the day for exact timings.

The on-site registration is particularly beneficial for existing owners, as Abu Dhabi has implemented an Animal Ownership System requiring cats and dogs to be registered for identification, health records, and welfare tracking. This can be done through a veterinary clinic using an Emirates ID, UAE Pass, and the TAMM platform. Having this service at the free public event eliminates the need for a separate clinic visit, which many owners may postpone.

Adopters should note that once an adoption goes through, ownership and all legal responsibility for the animal transfers to them. Carrying vaccination records is also advisable, especially for those planning to use the registration service.