A Guide to Emirates Pet Policy

Traveling with a pet can quickly become a logistical challenge, especially when flying with an international airline like Emirates.

Renowned for its high-quality service, Emirates nonetheless enforces strict regulations regarding the transport of animals. This guide is designed to help you better prepare your pet’s journey — from understanding which species are accepted and the conditions that apply, to exploring the available options depending on your destination and the type of animal you wish to transport with Emirates.

What Pets Are Allowed on Emirates Flights?

Unlike some airlines, Emirates does not allow pets to travel in the cabin, except for assistance dogs. All other animals must be transported either in the aircraft hold or via the Emirates SkyCargo freight service, depending on their weight, size, breed, and destination country.

Dogs and cats are generally accepted; however, certain flat-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are strictly prohibited for safety reasons, as these breeds are prone to breathing difficulties at high altitudes. Among the banned breeds are the French Bulldog, Pug, Shih Tzu, Persian cat, and British Shorthair, as well as any crossbreeds involving these animals.

Finally, exotic pets (such as rodents, reptiles, ferrets, and birds) are not accepted on Emirates flights — whether in the cabin, in the hold, or via freight.

For more details on which animals are permitted on Emirates flights, please refer to Emirates’ official website.

Emirates Pet Transport Options

The way your pet will be transported with Emirates depends on several factors: its weight, size, breed, and the requirements of the destination country. There are three possible options: in the cabin (in very limited cases), in the aircraft hold, or as freight.

It is important to note that Emirates does not allow pets to travel in the cabin, except for assistance dogs. In all other cases, only transport in the hold or via Emirates SkyCargo is available. These arrangements are strictly regulated to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal and are subject to specific fees.

In the Hold

Transporting pets in the aircraft hold is the most common option for animals weighing over 8 kg and up to 75 kg, including their travel crate. Emirates has specially designed, pressurized, ventilated, and heated compartments to accommodate animals under optimal conditions.

The travel crate must comply with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards, meaning it must be rigid, well-ventilated, and spacious enough for the animal to stand upright, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Please note that certain destinations or times of year may restrict this option — particularly during periods of extreme heat. For example, in summer, some airlines, including Emirates, may temporarily suspend the transport of animals in the hold to or from certain cities where temperatures exceed a critical threshold.

We recommend checking weather conditions and any seasonal restrictions when planning your pet’s journey.

In Cargo

When a pet weighs more than 75 kg (including the travel crate), belongs to a breed prohibited from traveling in the hold, or is not traveling on the same flight as its owner, freight transport becomes mandatory. Emirates offers this service through Emirates SkyCargo, its dedicated division specializing in the transport of cargo and live animals. This mode of transport ensures a high level of security and tracking, with particular attention paid to the animal’s comfort at every stage — from check-in and transit stops to final delivery.

Freight is also recommended for complex itineraries or destinations with strict import procedures, such as Australia, the United Kingdom, or Singapore. Emirates SkyCargo is widely recognized for its reliability; however, freight logistics require more advanced planning.

To simplify the process, you can work with a specialized pet transport company such as Air Transport Animal, which partners with licensed agents experienced in handling international pet relocations.
Contact us

What Are the Requirements for Pet Travel with Emirates?

Transporting an Animal with Emirates: Health and Administrative Requirements

To travel with Emirates, transporting an animal involves complying with several health and administrative requirements, detailed below:

1. Documents

Before flying with Emirates, your pet must have a valid health certificate issued by an approved veterinarian within 10 days of departure.

For travel within the European Union, a European Pet Passport is required. This official document, issued by an authorised veterinarian, certifies your pet’s identity and vaccination status.

2. Vaccination

Your pet must be healthy and up to date with all vaccinations. Depending on the destination, certain vaccines are mandatory—particularly the rabies vaccine for international travel.

3. Microchip Identification

Your pet must also be identified by a microchip (or a tattoo, depending on the country). This identification is essential for traceability and is often a prerequisite for entering certain territories, especially within the European Union.

4. Crate Requirements

Before the flight, it is necessary to select a travel crate of appropriate size that complies with IATA standards, ensuring sufficient space and ventilation for the animal. The crate must have a waterproof base, securely attached food and water bowls, and must not contain any hazardous or unnecessary items (such as toys or collars).

5. Destination-Specific Requirements

Certain destinations—including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Japan—require additional vaccinations, blood tests (such as rabies antibody titration), quarantine periods, or import permits that must be arranged several months in advance. It is therefore essential to check the specific regulations for your destination with the local authorities or consult our team when preparing to travel abroad with pets.

How Much Does It Cost to Transport Pets with Emirates?

The cost of transporting a pet with Emirates depends on several factors: the total weight (pet and crate), the size of the crate, the destination, and the mode of transport (in the aircraft hold or as cargo).

As an indication, for a pet traveling in the hold, prices generally start from around €200 to €400 for short-haul routes (for example, from Europe to the Middle East) and can exceed €800 for long-haul routes such as France to Australia.

For shipments handled as cargo, costs are higher due to additional logistics, including handling, transit, and customs clearance. You should budget between €1,000 and €3,000 or more, depending on the specifics of the shipment.

Additional costs may apply, such as the purchase of an approved travel crate, veterinary fees, ticket change fees if your pet is denied boarding, or transit services for long layovers.

Emirates recommends booking pet transport at least 2 to 4 weeks before departure and setting aside an extra budget to cover unexpected expenses.
Request a free quote

Tips for Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel

Air travel can be a source of stress for pets. Proper preparation is essential to ensure their comfort, safety, and a smooth journey with Emirates.

Getting Them Used to the Crate

Begin the familiarisation process several days—or ideally weeks—before departure. Place the crate or carrier in a familiar space and encourage your pet to enter voluntarily by adding a toy or a blanket that carries your scent. Gradually increase the amount of time your pet spends inside, first with the door open, then briefly closed, and eventually for longer periods.

Reducing Your Pet’s Stress Before the Flight

Maintain a consistent routine in the days leading up to departure. Keep your pet in calm environments and avoid new or stressful stimuli. On your veterinarian’s advice, you may also consider natural calming solutions, such as pheromone sprays or dietary supplements.

Adjusting Feeding and Exercise Routines

Provide a light meal the evening before departure and avoid feeding your pet within 4 to 6 hours of the flight. A long walk or play session before leaving for the airport will help your pet expend energy and better handle the trip.

The Vet Visit: A Must-Do

A veterinary check-up is essential before any flight. Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s health, issue the required certificates, and confirm that your pet is fit to travel. It is also the ideal time to ask questions about the journey and your pet’s expected behaviour during the flight.

Preparing the Travel Crate Properly

Use an absorbent and comfortable base (such as a towel or soft mat).

• Include a non-spill water bowl.
  
• Label the crate clearly with your contact details and information about your pet.
  
• Remove any unnecessary items that could pose a risk or cause discomfort during the flight.
  

For detailed information on Emirates’ specific pet transport conditions, we recommend visiting the official Emirates Airlines website.