A Step-by-Step Guide on Bringing Pets to Dubai

What Are the Pet Import Requirements for Dubai?

First and foremost, bringing a pet into the United Arab Emirates requires an import permit issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This permit is mandatory and must be obtained before departure. It is valid for 30 days only. Electronic identification via microchip is also required.

To be allowed into the country, your pet must be at least four months old at the time of arrival in Dubai. All vaccinations must be up to date, especially the rabies vaccination, which must be administered at least 21 days before departure, and no more than 12 months prior to arrival. A rabies antibody titration test (serological test) is also required, with a minimum of 21 days between the rabies vaccination and the blood sampling (in the case of a first vaccination).

Furthermore, internal and external antiparasitic treatments must be administered within 14 days prior to departure.

We strongly recommend that you double-check all the information listed on the veterinary documents — such as the name, date of birth, microchip number, vaccination dates, etc. — to ensure they are accurate and consistent. Any discrepancy could result in denial of entry.

Please note that Dubai limits the number of animals that can be imported to two pets per person per year.

Restrictions of Pet Breeds in Dubai

The Emirati authorities prohibit the importation of certain dog breeds classified as dangerous or considered aggressive. These restrictions mainly apply to molosser-type dogs or specific crossbreeds. Among the breeds banned in Dubai are the Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, various Mastiff types, as well as wolf-dog hybrids.

When it comes to cats, the restrictions are less extensive. However, certain hybrid breeds, such as Savannah cats of F1 or F2 generations, may be subject to additional controls or even denied entry into the country.

What Are the Pet Import Requirements for Dubai?

First and foremost, bringing a pet into the United Arab Emirates requires an import permit issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This permit is mandatory and must be obtained before departure. It is valid for 30 days only. Electronic identification via microchip is also required.

To be allowed into the country, your pet must be at least four months old at the time of arrival in Dubai. All vaccinations must be up to date, especially the rabies vaccination, which must be administered at least 21 days before departure, and no more than 12 months prior to arrival. A rabies antibody titration test (serological test) is also required, with a minimum of 21 days between the rabies vaccination and the blood sampling (in the case of a first vaccination).

Furthermore, internal and external antiparasitic treatments must be administered within 14 days prior to departure.

We strongly recommend that you double-check all the information listed on the veterinary documents — such as the name, date of birth, microchip number, vaccination dates, etc. — to ensure they are accurate and consistent. Any discrepancy could result in denial of entry.

Please note that Dubai limits the number of animals that can be imported to two pets per person per year.

Restrictions of Pet Breeds in Dubai

The Emirati authorities prohibit the importation of certain dog breeds classified as dangerous or considered aggressive. These restrictions mainly apply to molosser-type dogs or specific crossbreeds. Among the breeds banned in Dubai are the Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, various Mastiff types, as well as wolf-dog hybrids.

When it comes to cats, the restrictions are less extensive. However, certain hybrid breeds, such as Savannah cats of F1 or F2 generations, may be subject to additional controls or even denied entry into the country.

Specific Import Regulations

If you plan to travel to Dubai with a non-traditional pet (also known as “exotic pets”), such as a rabbit, ferret, bird, or reptile, specific rules apply. You must obtain a dedicated import permit for each species. Some exotic animals may also require a CITES import certificate, particularly if their trade is regulated under international conventions.

It is important to note that the importation of certain animals is strictly prohibited, while others may be allowed under specific conditions, such as enhanced veterinary certificates or mandatory quarantine. Therefore, it is essential to verify all requirements well in advance, depending on the species you wish to bring into the country.

For the most up-to-date information on which pets are allowed to travel to Dubai, please visit the official website of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).

What Documents Are Needed for Taking Pets to Dubai?

To legally bring your dog or cat into Dubai, several mandatory documents must be provided.

First, you must obtain the import permit issued by the (MOCCAE) via their online portal. This permit is essential and must be requested well in advance of your departure.

Next, you’ll need to present your pet’s passport or an equivalent health record, clearly showing the pet’s name, microchip number, proof of up-to-date vaccinations (especially rabies), and antiparasitic treatments. A veterinary health certificate, issued within 7 days before departure, is also required.

In addition, the UAE authorities require a form titled Annex No. 3: “Model of Veterinary Health Certificate for Exporting Cats and Dogs into the United Arab Emirates”. This official certificate must be completed in English and stamped by a licensed veterinarian.

Depending on international health conditions (e.g., during a pandemic), a COVID-19 certificate may also be requested.

What Vaccinations Are Required for Pets Travelling to Dubai?

To be allowed entry into Dubai, your pet must comply with a specific vaccination protocol.

For Dogs

Rabies vaccination is mandatory for dogs. It must be administered at least 21 days before departure and remain valid upon arrival in Dubai.

In addition, dogs must also be vaccinated against the following diseases:

• Canine parvovirus
• Canine hepatitis (rubarth’s disease)
• Canine distemper
• Leptospirosis
• Kennel cough (depending on the airline’s requirements)

For Cats

For cats, rabies vaccination is also mandatory under the same timing conditions. Other recommended vaccinations include:

• Feline leukemia (FeLV)
• Feline panleukopenia (typhus)
• Feline viral rhinotracheitis and calicivirus (coryza)
• Feline chlamydiosis

All vaccinations must be recorded in the pet’s vaccination booklet or passport, and each entry must be signed and stamped by a licensed veterinarian.

We highly recommend scheduling a complete health check-up 30 days before travel to ensure your pet is fit to fly and that all vaccinations are up to date.

What Is the Process for Bringing Pets to Dubai?

Organizing the transport of your dog or cat to the United Arab Emirates requires careful planning. To travel with a pet to Dubai, having the right documents is not enough — you must also ensure your animal’s well-being and compliance with international transport regulations.

Here are some key steps to follow to properly prepare your pet’s journey to Dubai:

Schedule an Appointment with Your Vet

Before departure, you are required to have your pet examined by a licensed veterinarian authorized to issue international health certificates for animal travel. This veterinary check-up must take place within 7 days prior to the flight.

During the visit, the veterinarian must complete all necessary paperwork, including the mandatory Annex 3 form required by the UAE authorities. This appointment is also an opportunity to confirm that all vaccinations are up to date and to ensure your pet is in good overall health before the journey.

Get an IATA-Compliant Travel Crate

Air transport of animals is strictly regulated, and your pet must travel in an IATA-compliant crate (International Air Transport Association). The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It must also be equipped with secure locking mechanisms, a water bowl, and adequate ventilation. Most airlines and specialized transport companies require this standard to ensure safety during the journey.

Are you currently preparing your pet’s trip and wondering how to choose the right crate for your animal? We’ve written a dedicated article to answer all your questions and help you select the most suitable travel crate.

Book Your Pet’s Journey with a Certified Pet Transporter

We strongly recommend using the services of a certified pet relocation company. These professionals can advise you on the required documentation, customs procedures, and the specific regulations for transporting live animals to Dubai. They will assist with preparing all necessary documents, submitting the import permit application, booking your pet’s cargo space, and ensuring all safety conditions are met.

Some companies, such as ATA, even offer door-to-door services, including home pickup, veterinary check-ups, and safe delivery to your destination in Dubai.

Prepare Your Pet for Its Flight to Dubai

An international journey can be stressful for animals, so it is important to begin the preparation several weeks in advance. Help your pet get used to its travel crate by placing a blanket, toys, or an item of your clothing with your scent inside. Gradually increase the time your pet spends in the crate — first while you are nearby, then while you are away.

The day before the flight, slightly reduce your pet’s food intake, while continuing to provide access to water.

Finally, avoid using tranquilizers, unless explicitly recommended by your veterinarian, as they can be dangerous during air travel. Instead, focus on proper crate training, a calm environment, and talk to your vet about natural stress-reducing solutions for your pet.

Good-to-Know

Bringing your pet to Dubai requires careful preparation, but it is just as important to anticipate what will happen upon arrival. At the airport, local health authorities systematically inspect every animal entering the country. If all documents are complete and comply with UAE import regulations, the process is generally smooth and quick. However, in the case of non-compliance or missing documents, delays or even temporary quarantine may be imposed.

Can I Bring My Pet In-Cabin to Dubai?

No, in Dubai, pets are not allowed to travel in the cabin or hold of a regular passenger flight, even for small animals. Importation is only permitted via air cargo (freight), through a specific procedure governed by the MOCCAE. This means that your pet will be transported in a special live animal compartment and collected at the airport’s cargo terminal upon arrival. This rule applies to both dogs and cats and requires coordination with a certified pet transport company to ensure compliance with regulations.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements for Pets Traveling the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates does not systematically impose quarantine on pets entering the country. However, quarantine may be required in certain situations, such as:

• Incomplete documentation
• Non-compliance with vaccination requirements
• Missing health certificates
• Unreadable or missing microchip identification

If quarantine is deemed necessary, it typically lasts between 7 and 21 days in state-approved veterinary facilities. To avoid this situation, it is essential to prepare all documents well in advance and have your file reviewed by a professional pet transport company before departure.

What Are the Costs for Pet Relocation to Dubai?

The cost of transporting a pet to Dubai varies depending on several factors. On average, you should expect the following expenses:

• €800 to €2,500 for cargo transport, depending on your pet’s weight, the airline, and the final destination
• €150 to €300 for veterinary consultations, vaccinations, deworming, and the health certificate
• €80 to €250 for an IATA-approved travel crate
• €150 to €250 for the import permit (to be requested from MOCCAE)
• Handling fees upon arrival (charged by the airport or airline cargo operator)In total, a global budget between €1,500 and €3,500 should be anticipated, depending on the level of service and support chosen. A personalized quote from a pet transport specialist is always recommended.