Our Founders | Dubai Nine Lives Rescue

Rupsa Mukherjee

Co-Founder & Rescuer

By profession, Rupsa is an accomplished HR professional based in Dubai, balancing the demands of a full-time corporate career. But beyond office hours, her heart has always belonged to animals.

Her love for animals began in childhood while growing up in India, where caring for stray dogs and cats in her neighbourhood became a natural part of her everyday life. Today, that same kindness continues in Dubai. As an accomplished rescuer in UAE and a lead volunteer in Dubai 9 Lives, until now, she has managed to rescue many critical cases, and all those rescued babies have found their forever homes across UAE, Europe and UK.

Rupsa firmly believes that no animal should have to ever endure hunger, illness, injury, or loneliness. They deserve safety, dignity, and the unconditional love that they so freely give in return. Through her journey with Dubai 9 Lives, Rupsa hopes to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Whether by rescuing, fostering, feeding, or supporting adoptions, she believes that even the smallest act of kindness can transform an animal's life.

Her message is simple yet powerful:

"When we rescue any cat, it’s an end-to-end responsibility for us, there is nothing 'in between'. We take them in under our care, when we commit to the rescued baby and ourselves, that the cat will have his/her second chance in their lives which they truly deserve. This is our promise to them and we will never give up on them until we are assured, they are safe and well taken care of for the rest of their lives.

When we choose compassion, we don't just save animals—we save humanity. Every wagging tail, every gentle purr, and every life saved is a beautiful reminder that kindness can make the world a better place—for animals and for us."

Ouiem Chatbouri

Co-Founder & Rescuer

Ouiem is originally from Tunisia, and her love for animals has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. Ouiem grew up in an animal friendly family environment surrounded by cats and dogs, and caring for them from a young age taught her compassion, patience, and the importance of protecting those who cannot speak for themselves.

Today, as an accomplished animal rescuer in Dubai, she dedicates her time and heart to helping animals in need. She believes that every rescue is more than just saving a life—it's about giving them safety, proper care, good nutrition, and the chance to trust and love again. Seeing a frightened, hungry, or injured animal slowly heal and blossom into a happy soul is one of the greatest joys of her life.

She truly believes that every animal is precious and every life matters. They have hearts, emotions, and souls just like we do, and no animal should ever have to suffer from hunger, illness, injury, or neglect. They deserve kindness, comfort, and all the love this world has to offer.

Ouiem’s message:

"Being part of Dubai 9 Lives is more than volunteering—it's a promise to stand beside every animal that needs a helping hand. If we can change even one life through love and compassion, we've made the world a little brighter. Every rescued soul is the same, all they want is safety, love and trust, all they need is a haven to thrive and be happy. As humans, this is our duty and responsibility towards them.

When we started Dubai 9 lives, this has been the sole mission and goal for us and we will keep on doing the same"

Our Lead Volunteers

Asmae Chiguer

Lead Volunteer

Hi, I'm Asmae. 🤍

By profession, I work in luxury hospitality sales, but my heart has always belonged to animals. Outside of work, I'm a proud volunteer and rescuer with Dubai 9 Lives, where I dedicate my time to rescuing, fostering, and advocating for abandoned and vulnerable cats across the UAE. Over the years, I've witnessed both heartbreaking stories and incredible transformations, and every rescue reminds me why this mission means so much to me.

I truly believe that every cat deserves a second chance—a safe place, a full bowl, and a family to call their own. Whether it's bottle-feeding orphaned kittens, helping injured strays recover, or finding loving forever homes, I'm grateful to play a small part in changing their lives.

For me, rescue isn't just volunteering—it's a commitment, a responsibility, and a passion that brings purpose to my life. I'm honoured to be part of the amazing community at Dubai 9 Lives, working alongside dedicated people who share the same goal: giving every cat the love and future they deserve. 🐾💕

Giulia

Lead Volunteer

I’m Giulia, I love all animals but cats are my true soulmates. I love their intelligence, I respect their independence, I can dive and get lost into their deep eyes… Cats have a very special energy and I found myself many times thinking they are magical.

I live with a family of 4 ginger rescues and ever since I moved to UAE I’ve been trying to help strays rescuers. I’ve been lucky in becoming part of Dubai9Lives, where I found good hearted people who care of each cat we rescue with immense passion and loving attention. Volunteering in saving strays can be emotionally and physically overwhelming, this is why it’s so important to join forces! Every single cat fed, nursed, fostered, rehomed, TNRed, vaccinated or simply checked and taken care daily on the streets can make the difference. I hope this platform will attract more fellows for this special rescue travel, where lending a hand to vulnerable cats makes you richer and happier 😻🐾😻🐾