Relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a journey that requires careful planning and knowledge about import regulations. In this guide we will walk you through the necessary steps to import dogs and cats to the UAE, helping you prepare for a smooth transition for both you and your buddy.
Expat pet ownership in the UAE
The UAE is a vibrant and diverse country, with over 80% of its population being expatriates. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their modern infrastructure and high quality of life. For pet owners, the UAE offers a wide range of high quality amenities, including pet-friendly accommodations, parks, and veterinary services. However, it’s important to be aware of the cultural nuances and legal requirements surrounding pet ownership to fully enjoy the experience.
Everything you need to know before relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Import requirements
Age limits
Dogs and cats entering the UAE from a low risk rabies country should be at least 12 weeks old, and pets arriving from a high risk rabies country must be at least 15 weeks old before entering the UAE.
Import permit
Before relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates, you need to obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This permit is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. A maximum of two import permits per person and per year is allowed, excluding domestic pets returning to the UAE.
Vaccination requirements
An active vaccination against rabies is required for all cats and dogs entering the UAE and pets under the age of 12 weeks should not have received their primary shot.
In addition to rabies vaccination, the MOCCAE requires all dogs to be vaccinated against Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Parvo Virus, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis. And for cats the mandatory vaccinations are Feline Pan Leukcopenia, Feline Rhinotracheitis, and Feline Calicivirus
Rabies neutralising antibody titre test (RNATT)
Like many other countries, the UAE groups countries based on the level of Rabies risk in the country. Cats and dogs coming from high-risk countries will need to show a passing RNATT result. The test result is valid for one year, and the pet is not allowed to receive any rabies booster, or the test will need to be retaken. See a list of low risk countries below.
Health certificate
A veterinary health certificate, attested by the competent veterinary authorities in the country of export, is required. This certificate should conform to the approved models agreed upon with the exporting countries and confirm that the pet is free from infectious diseases. The health certificate should also confirm that the pet has received treatment against internal and external parasites within the last 14 days prior to import into the UAE, unless stated in the pet passport.
Travel requirements
The MOCCAE requires all pet dogs and cats to be shipped to the UAE following IATA conditions for animal transport.
Note that all cats and dogs travelling to Dubai must enter as cargo, not as excess luggage or carry-on luggage accompanied by a human, and a licensed agent is required to handle the import of your pet.
Banned dog breeds
Not all dogs can be imported to the UAE. The MOCCAE publishes a list of dog breeds that are banned from importation. Double check below to make sure your buddy is not on the list before deciding about your move:
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- American Bully
- Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasiliero)
- Argentinian Mastiff (Dogo Argentino)
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- French Mastiff (Dogue de Bordeaux)
- Boerboel
- Bullmastiff
- Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff)
- Bully Kutta (Alangu Mastiff, Indian Mastiff)
- Perro De Presa Canario (Canary Mastiff)
- Japaneese tosa
- Presa Canario
Relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates (UAE): List of low risk rabies countries
The following list includes all countries that are considered low risk rabies countries. If your country is not on the list, your pet will need to pass a RNAT test to be allowed entry into the UAE. The official list is available on the MOCCAE website. We recommend you verify on their website to make sure there has been no recent updates that have not yet been updated in this guide.
- Australia
- Austria
- Andorra
- Bahrain
- Barbados
- Belgium
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Fiji
- Finland
- French Polynesia
- Falkland Islands
- Germany
- Hong Kong
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Jamaica
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Liechtenstein
- Mauritius
- Malta
- New Caledonia
- New Zealand
- Portugal
- Singapore
- San Marino
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Kingdom
- Vanuatu
- Netherlands
- Bulgaria
- Slovenia
- Palau
- Latvia
- Albania
- Croatia
- Maldives
- Spain (excluding Melilla)
- Cyprus
- Korea
- Montenegro
- Seychelles
- Suriname
- Micronesia
- Greece
- Marshall Islands
- Bahamas
- Lithuania
- Macedonia
Relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates: What is life with pets in the UAE?
Pet-friendly accommodations and lifestyle
The UAE offers a variety of pet-friendly accommodations, ranging from apartments to villas. Many residential communities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are pet-friendly, featuring parks and walking areas. But to be on the safe side, make sure to verify pet policies with landlords and property management before committing to a lease.
In terms of lifestyle, the UAE has many pet-friendly parks, beaches, and cafes. For instance, in Dubai you’ll find places such as Dubai Islands Beach Park or Al Ittihad Park on Palm Jumeirah where pets and owners alike can socialize and exercise. Additionally, veterinary clinics and pet stores are widely available and of high standards, making sure your pet’s health and dietary needs are well met.
Cultural considerations
While the UAE is generally welcoming to pets, you also need to be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
Not all public places allow pets, and some people may be uncomfortable around animals. Always keep your pet leashed in public areas and respect local customs and regulations.
By following these guidelines and being aware of the cultural context, we wish you a smooth and enjoyable experience with your pet in the UAE.
How do Purrfect Pilots work and how can we help you
As an experienced pet moving agent specializing in international relocation, we are familiar with the full process of relocating pets to the United Arab Emirates. Our job is to ensure that your pet has the most comfortable transition possible during their journey and to give you regular updates about your pet throughout the move.
To take off some of the financial burden of pet relocation to the United Arab Emirates, we can offer tailored payment plans. Ask your Purrfect Pilot about available options.
During our years of operations, we have built a wide network of professional pet care professionals with the same commitment and passion as we have.
Your pet will only be handled by carefully selected partners where our team can not be present. Our partners are professionally trained in handling live animals according to the IATA live animal regulations and meet Purrfect Pilots’ strict partner requirements.
We offer full transparency from pricing to execution of your pet move and we are great at planning perfect moves.
But to be honest, our biggest strength lies in our industry knowledge and ability to “fix things” when needed. Because moving a pet can become quite the adventure and we always work with a B and a C backup plan to get your pet to destination.
Few pet moves are one-size-fits-all, at Purrfect Pilots we want to listen to your expectations and preferences, and support you in the way you need and want us to.
Purrfect Pilots is a dependable pet mover that helps relocate and travel pets to many countries, including those countries with strict import regulations like Australia, the U.S.A, and the U.K. Are you looking to bring your pet to the UAE? We can help you reunite with your pet.
