Can You Bring Pets to Dubai? Costs, Rules & Paperwork

Moving to Dubai with your pet, made simple

Relocating to Dubai with a dog or cat is absolutely possible with the right preparation. This guide is for individuals and families planning a move who want clarity on permits, vaccines, cargo rules, timelines, and what happens on arrival. We explain each step in plain English so you can plan confidently, avoid airport delays, and keep your pet safe throughout the journey.

The rules you must follow, explained clearly

Dubai requires an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment before travel. This permit functions like a pet visa and costs AED 200 per animal. It is typically valid for 30 to 90 days from the issue date, so timing your application is important. Apply online well ahead of travel to prevent denial of entry at the airport.

Every pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784 or 11785 compliant chip and have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before arrival and within the last 12 months. Young pets must also meet minimum age rules. Puppies and kittens usually need to be at least 12 to 16 weeks old to receive vaccination and qualify for entry.

Before departure, arrange an official health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This certificate should confirm your pet’s fitness to travel and list the microchip number, vaccination records, and parasite treatments administered within 14 days prior to departure. Keep originals with you. These documents are checked at airline acceptance and again at Dubai International Airport. Missing or invalid papers can lead to quarantine or refusal of entry.

Transport rules are strict. Pets must travel as manifest cargo, not in the cabin or as checked baggage. Use an International Air Transport Association compliant crate with proper ventilation, secure fastenings, and clear labeling. Dubai International Airport is experienced with pet arrivals, and cargo teams will coordinate inspections upon landing. From May to September, daytime pet flights are generally restricted due to high temperatures on the tarmac. Plan night flights or climate-controlled transfers during summer to avoid airline and authority rejections.

There are breed restrictions you must check early. Some breeds that are considered aggressive, such as Pit Bulls and Rottweilers, cannot be imported. Mixed breeds that resemble restricted types may also be refused at the discretion of authorities. Service animals can sometimes receive exemptions, but obtain written approval in advance.

Households have annual limits. You can typically bring up to two pets per year in combinations such as two cats, two dogs, or one dog and one cat. Age and origin rules also apply. If you are traveling from a low rabies risk country such as the United Kingdom, standard vaccination and documentation may be sufficient, and rabies antibody titer testing is generally not required. If you are traveling from a high-risk country, expect extra steps like a rabies titer test and longer preparation timelines. Also consider transit routes. Passing through a high-risk country can change your requirements, so choose flights accordingly.

After landing, you will clear customs at the cargo village. You then need to register your pet locally. Bring your import permit, health certificate, vaccination record, your passport copy, and residency details. Officials may verify that your pet did not come into contact with other animals during transit. Completing registration helps you avoid fines and ensures your pet’s legal residence in Dubai.

Start early, keep originals, and match your travel date to your permit validity. This single habit prevents most airport issues.

How ARK makes pet relocation easier

At ARK, we help you move your life and business to Dubai without stress. Our team coordinates the MOCCAE import permit, verifies vaccination and microchip compliance, arranges IATA-compliant crates, and books pet-safe cargo schedules suited to summer restrictions. We also plan around country risk status, review breed eligibility, and manage airport clearance. After arrival, we guide your local pet registration so you settle in quickly and compliantly. With ARK, you get clarity, timelines, and hands-on support at every step.

Next steps to get started

1. Check your pet’s microchip and vaccination dates against UAE requirements.
2. Confirm your origin country’s rabies risk status and any titer test needs.
3. Apply for the MOCCAE import permit and align travel dates with its validity.
4. Book an IATA-compliant crate and manifest cargo with summer heat rules in mind.
5. Obtain an official health certificate and parasite treatments within 14 days of departure.
6. Prepare original documents for airline check-in and Dubai customs inspection.
7. Plan post-arrival registration and schedule your first vet visit in Dubai.

Helpful context for living with pets in Dubai

Dubai is pet friendly but highly regulated for safety and animal welfare. Most communities allow pets, though some buildings have restrictions, so confirm pet policies in your tenancy before you sign. The climate is hot for much of the year, so plan early morning and evening walks, use shaded routes, and keep fresh water on hand. Pet services are widely available, including experienced vets, pet taxis, grooming, and training. Food and supplies are easy to find, and many parks have pet-friendly areas. With proper permits, health records, and post-arrival registration, you can enjoy a smooth transition and a comfortable life with your pet in the UAE.