Bringing Dog to UAE: Complete Guide to Pet Import UAE

Bringing a dog to the UAE can be a complex process due to strict regulations designed to ensure animal health and safety. Whether you’re relocating or visiting with your pet, understanding the UAE’s pet import requirements is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about pet import UAE, including documentation, vaccinations, quarantine rules, and airline policies.

UAE Pet Import Requirements

To bring your dog into the UAE, you must comply with the following regulations:

1. Microchipping

• Your dog must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip.
  
• The microchip should be implanted before any vaccinations.
  

2. Vaccinations

• Rabies Vaccination: Required at least 21 days before travel but not more than 1 year prior.
  
• Core Vaccines: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis (DHLPP).
  
• Vaccination records must be signed by a licensed veterinarian.
  

3. Veterinary Health Certificate

• A health certificate issued by an accredited vet within 10 days of travel is mandatory.
  
• The certificate must be endorsed by the relevant government authority (e.g., USDA for the USA, DEFRA for the UK).
  

4. Import Permit

• Apply for an import permit from the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
  
• Processing time: 3-5 business days.
  

5. Blood Tests (If Required)

• Dogs from high-risk rabies countries may need a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Test (RNAT).
  
• The test must be conducted at least 30 days after vaccination and 3 months before travel.
  

6. Banned Breeds

The UAE prohibits certain dog breeds, including:

• Pit Bull Terrier
  
• American Staffordshire Terrier
  
• Japanese Tosa
  
• Dogo Argentino
  
• Fila Brasileiro
  

Check the latest updates before traveling.

Quarantine Rules for Dogs in the UAE

• No quarantine if all requirements are met.
  
• Dogs from unapproved countries may face quarantine for up to 14 days.
  

Airlines Allowing Pet Travel to the UAE

Popular airlines that permit dogs in the cabin or cargo include:

• Emirates (Cargo only for pets)
  
• Etihad Airways (Cabin for small dogs, cargo for larger breeds)
  
• Qatar Airways (Strict pet policies)
  
• Lufthansa (Pet-friendly with climate-controlled cargo)
  

Always confirm airline policies before booking.

Cost of Bringing a Dog to the UAE

Expenses may include:

• Microchipping: 50−50−100
  
• Vaccinations & Health Certificate: 100−100−300
  
• Import Permit: 100−100−200
  
• Airline Fees: 200−200−1,000+ (depending on size & airline)
  

Pet-Friendly Living in the UAE

Once in the UAE, consider:

• Pet-friendly housing (some rentals restrict pets)
  
• Local vet clinics (Dubai, Abu Dhabi have excellent facilities)
  
• Dog parks & walking areas (JLT Park, Mushrif Park)
  

Conclusion

Bringing a dog to the UAE requires careful planning, but with the right documentation and preparation, the process can be smooth. Follow all pet import UAE regulations, choose a pet-friendly airline, and ensure your dog meets all health requirements.

Would you like assistance with specific steps in the process? Let us know in the comments!