Abu Dhabi City Municipality will hold the sixth edition of the "Pet Lovers' Gathering" at Al Shamkha Square from 25 to 27 September 2026, as part of its efforts to encourage community participation, mark the "Year of the Family," raise awareness of the importance of animal welfare, and build responsible practices in caring for pets.
The gathering allows pet lovers to take part with their animals, including cats, dogs and birds, subject to a number of requirements that help ensure the safety of the animals and visitors. These include that the animal must be registered, that it must be a recognised type of pet, and that it must be free from disease.
Pet lovers may also register to take part directly at the event site, where a registration service will be available for pets that are not yet registered, along with free health checks for animals and a range of pet and bird displays.
The gathering will include a community market aimed at encouraging pet lovers and supporting businesses linked to pets, helping enrich the visitor experience and providing a complete space that brings together awareness, entertainment and specialised services.
A number of strategic partners will take part in the gathering, including Abu Dhabi Police General Command, which will put on a police dog display, along with Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and Emirates Park Zoo, as well as a number of businesses specialising in pet supplies and care.
The Municipality is inviting members of the public and pet lovers to take part in the gathering and make use of its various activities and services, stressing that holding this event reflects its commitment to raising community awareness of animal welfare and encouraging practices that help protect and care for animals, within a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants and visitors.
It is worth noting that Abu Dhabi City Municipality has held five editions of the gathering since it began in 2023, with four editions held in Khalifa City and one in Al Falah City. This will be the first time it is held at Al Shamkha Square, as part of efforts to build a culture of maintaining ecological balance, raise awareness of proper animal care methods, and provide a gathering where pet owners can share experience and learn about best practices for their animals' health and safety.