GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip. The worldwide trend of cat cafes, where individuals enjoy coffee while spending time with cats, has finally arrived in the besieged Gaza Strip. In this economically challenged Palestinian region governed by the Hamas militant group and afflicted by a 17-year-long blockade, residents seeking respite from the difficulties of their surroundings flocked to the newly established Meow Cafe on Thursday. This cafe is Gaza City’s version of the unique concept that has found success around the globe.
The founder of the cafe, Naema Mabed, aged 52, envisioned the establishment as a distinct escape from the challenges of life in Gaza. With limited recreational options, an alarming youth unemployment rate exceeding 60%, and frequent conflicts with Israel since Hamas took control of the region in 2007, Mabed aimed to provide a haven. Within the cozy atmosphere of the cafe, Mabed offers a modest beverage service and encourages patrons to head straight to the cat corner, where they can interact and play with the furry companions. The entry requirements are simple: visitors must don plastic covers over their shoes and cleanse their hands before engaging with the cats.
“I have devoted my life to raising cats, and they bring joy and tranquility—a release from life’s pressures,” Mabed shared with The Associated Press, while cats freely roamed around her. She likened communing with felines to a “global antidepressant.”
The customers seem to share this sentiment. They appeared delighted as they played and relaxed with the ten resident cats, each with names like Tom, Dot, Simba, and Phoenix. Some guests quietly absorbed the soothing presence of the cats.
Mabed emphasizes that the cats are not available for adoption, as she has a strong bond with her feline companions.
“The experience is truly about finding psychological comfort through the cats,” remarked 23-year-old Eman Omar, who paid the 5 Israeli shekels ($1.30) entrance fee to enjoy half an hour of cuddling with the cats. “Everything feels wonderful!”
Experts assert that the cafe serves a greater purpose beyond merely indulging cat enthusiasts and providing an opportunity for attractive selfies. Psychologist Bahzad al-Akhras stated that in places like Gaza, such sanctuaries can serve as therapeutic spaces for individuals impacted by the region’s devastating wars and other hardships.
“Any environment that facilitates human interaction with animals has a positive psychological influence,” al-Akhras commented.
Bringing the cat cafe trend to Gaza was no small feat for Mabed. Establishing the cafe in the region came with various challenges, extending beyond financial constraints. The concept of paying to spend time with cats in a place where stray cats roam the streets of Gaza City daily struck some residents as absurd.
However, for cat enthusiasts restricted in their ability to travel due to the Israeli-Egyptian blockade, and who might not encounter this immensely popular trend elsewhere, the experience proved to be pure bliss.
“If you have a soft spot for cats, this is the place for you,” affirmed Omar, one of the cafe’s customers. “And even if you’re not a cat lover, you’ll likely find yourself drawn to loving them.”
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
