Pet Travel UAE: A Complete Guide for Safe and Stress-Free Pet Relocation

Traveling with pets to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you're moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or another Emirate, understanding the regulations, documentation, and logistics of pet travel UAE is essential.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about bringing your pet to the UAE, including import rules, airline policies, quarantine requirements, and tips for keeping your pet comfortable during the journey.

1. Pet Import Regulations in the UAE

The UAE has strict pet importation rules to ensure animal health and safety. The regulations vary slightly between Emirates, but the general requirements are similar.

Key Requirements for Pet Travel to the UAE

• Microchipping – Your pet must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.
• Rabies Vaccination – Administered at least 21 days before travel but not more than one year prior.
• Other Vaccinations – Dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis; cats need feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccines.
• Veterinary Health Certificate – Issued by a licensed vet and endorsed by the government authority in your home country.
• Import Permit – Required for dogs and cats; apply through the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
• Breed Restrictions – Some breeds, such as Pit Bulls and Japanese Tosas, are banned in certain Emirates.

Emirates-Specific Rules

• Dubai – Requires an import permit from MOCCAE; no quarantine if all documents are in order.
• Abu Dhabi – Follows similar rules but may have additional checks upon arrival.
• Sharjah & Other Emirates – May require additional approvals; always check local regulations.

2. Choosing the Right Travel Option for Your Pet

When planning pet travel UAE, you have two main options:

A. Traveling with Your Pet in the Cabin

• Only small pets (usually under 6-8 kg) may be allowed in the cabin.
• Airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways have specific policies for in-cabin pets.

B. Shipping Your Pet as Cargo

• Larger pets must travel in an IATA-approved crate in the aircraft’s climate-controlled cargo hold.
• Professional pet relocation services can help arrange flights and documentation.

3. Best Airlines for Pet Travel to the UAE

Not all airlines have the same pet policies. The most pet-friendly options include:

• Emirates Airlines – Offers Emirates SkyCargo for safe pet transport.
• Etihad Airways – Provides a "Flying Vet" service to monitor pets during long flights.
• Qatar Airways – Known for excellent pet care and frequent flight options to the UAE.

Always confirm airline-specific requirements, including crate dimensions and health documentation.

4. Preparing Your Pet for the Journey

A. Crate Training

• Introduce your pet to an IATA-approved travel crate weeks before departure.
• Ensure the crate is well-ventilated, secure, and lined with absorbent padding.

B. Health Check-Up & Documentation

• Visit your vet for a final health check and ensure all vaccinations are up to date.
• Obtain an EU Pet Passport (if traveling from Europe) or an international health certificate.

C. Flight Day Tips

• Avoid feeding your pet 4-6 hours before the flight (water is okay).
• Attach a travel kit with food, vet records, and a familiar toy inside the crate.

5. Arrival in the UAE: Customs & Quarantine

Upon landing, your pet will go through customs clearance. The process includes:

1. Document Verification – Officials will check:
   • Microchip number
   • Vaccination records
   • Import permit
   • Health certificate
2. Quarantine (if required) – The UAE typically does not impose quarantine if all documents are correct. However, pets arriving from high-risk rabies countries may face additional checks.
3. Final Release – Once cleared, your pet can leave the airport with you.

6. Hiring a Pet Relocation Service

Navigating pet travel UAE can be complex, so many expats use professional pet relocation services. These companies handle:

• Import permits & paperwork
• Flight bookings & cargo arrangements
• Customs clearance & transport from the airport

Recommended Pet Relocation Companies in the UAE

• PetAir UAE – Specializes in door-to-door pet relocation.
• Fetch & Relocate – Offers comprehensive pet travel services.
• Pawsome Pets UAE – Helps with documentation and flight logistics.

7. Settling Your Pet in the UAE

Once you arrive, help your pet adjust with these steps:

A. Find a Vet

The UAE has excellent veterinary clinics, including:

• The Veterinary Hospital (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
• Modern Veterinary Clinic (MVC)
• British Veterinary Centre (Abu Dhabi)

B. Explore Pet-Friendly Places

• Dog Parks – Dubai Hills Park, The Greens, and Al Barari welcome pets.
• Pet-Friendly Beaches – Kite Beach (Dubai) and Yas Beach (Abu Dhabi) have designated pet areas.

C. Register Your Pet

Some Emirates require pet registration with local municipalities.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much does pet travel to the UAE cost?

A: Costs vary based on size, airline, and services used. Expect $800–$3,000 depending on distance and whether you use a relocation company.

Q: Are there pet quarantine requirements in the UAE?

A: Usually no quarantine if all documents are correct, but pets from high-risk countries may face additional checks.

Q: Can I bring exotic pets to the UAE?

A: Birds, rabbits, and rodents are generally allowed but may require special permits. Check with MOCCAE before traveling.

Conclusion

Pet travel UAE requires careful preparation, but with the right knowledge and planning, your pet can have a safe and comfortable journey. Whether you handle the process independently or hire a professional relocation service, ensuring all vaccinations, permits, and airline requirements are met is crucial.

By following this guide, you can make your pet’s relocation to the UAE as smooth as possible, allowing both of you to enjoy your new life in this pet-welcoming country.