Relocating Pets into the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are relocating your pets into the UAE, this guide will navigate you through the bureaucratically burdened process of relocating your beloved pets into the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Whether you have questions or seek clarity on moving your pets to the UAE, this document aims to provide you with all the necessary information.

Important Note: This guide solely pertains to the import side of your pet’s transportation into the UAE and does not cover exports or the process in your place of origin.

We have made an effort to include everything you need to know and everything we think you might want to know about importing your pet. However, if you’re short on time, we have included a convenient Checklist of Requirements at the end of this blog.

Key Points to Consider Before Relocating Your Pets into the UAE

There are a few crucial import regulations that may pose challenges as you plan your pet’s relocation to the UAE. Please pay close attention to the following points:

1- Underage Travelers:

The UAE does not allow the import of dogs and cats under the age of 12 weeks or 15 weeks, depending on your pet’s country of origin and whether they require a rabies titres test. Your pet must already meet the minimum age requirement to apply for an import permit.

2- Arrival as Cargo:

All pets must arrive in Dubai as manifested cargo. Importing pets as accompanied baggage or in-cabin is strictly prohibited. However, there is an exception for Etihad Airways passengers flying into Abu Dhabi.

If specific requirements are met, you may be allowed to bring your pet as accompanied baggage in-cabin. Please refer to the Etihad website for more details.

3- Prohibited Dog Breeds:

The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (MOCCAE) has imposed restrictions on the import of certain dog breeds. The following breeds are prohibited:

All Pit Bull Terriers
Staffordshire Terriers (English & American)
American Bully
All Mastiffs
Japanese Tosa Inu
Wolf/Dog Hybrids
Crossbreeds or hybrids of the above listed dogs

Exceptions can be made for service dogs, emotional support dogs, or dogs providing medical support, subject to special permission from MOCCAE. Please note that the list of banned breeds may change, so it is essential to check with MOCCAE for any updates.

Read: UAE Updates List of Banned Dog Breeds

4- Restricted Dog Breeds in Dubai:

In addition to the prohibited breeds, Dubai Municipality has its own list of breeds that are not banned but are restricted. These breeds are subject to certain requirements imposed by the municipal government. All dogs, regardless of breed, must be registered with the Veterinary Services Section of the Municipality and walked on a leash in public areas.

The restricted breeds (and those on the prohibited breed list already in the UAE) must wear a basket-type muzzle in public areas and should be kept in a villa or on a farm instead of an apartment. Registration with Dubai Municipality may require additional information beyond what is required for other breeds.

Please note that these restrictions apply only to Dubai and not to other emirates in the UAE.

5- Airline Restrictions:

It is crucial to be aware that many airlines worldwide have their own restrictions on the transportation of certain species and breeds of animals. When making decisions about airlines and routes for your pet’s travel to the UAE, it is essential to carefully research and comply with the airline’s policies.

6- Quarantine:

There is no quarantine period for pets arriving in the UAE if all vaccination, documentation, and Ministry requirements are met. However, if any aspect is not in order, your pet may be subject to quarantine, re-exportation, or, in rare cases, confiscation.

7- Maximum Number of Pets:

If you are personally relocating your pets to the UAE, the UAE government restricts the number of pets to a maximum of two per person per year. However, if you choose to engage a trusted pet relocation agency, you may be allowed to bring up to five pets per person.

8- Fit-to-Fly Assessment:

Before you decide to transport your pet by air, it is important to assess their “fit-to-fly” status. Just like humans, animals may experience stress and discomfort during travel, and certain health conditions may make it unsafe for them to fly. To ensure the well-being of your furry friend, it is recommended to consult your veterinarian for a thorough fit-to-fly assessment.

Read: Is Your Dog or Cat Fit to Fly in UAE?

9- Tax Deductibility:

In some countries, moving and relocation expenses, including those incurred for pets, may be tax-deductible. It is advisable to consult with a tax consultant or refer to authoritative websites to determine the eligibility and specific requirements for tax deductions related to your pet’s relocation.

Now that you have a solid understanding of the key points to consider when relocating your pets to the UAE, let’s delve deeper into the detailed requirements and steps involved in the process.

Required Documents and Ministry Requirements

To initiate the import process for your pet, you will need the following documents:

1- Copy of Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT):

This test is mandatory for pets arriving from high-risk countries and some other countries. However, if you are importing your pet from exempted low-risk countries, this test may not be required. Please check with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (MOCCAE) for the current list of exempted countries and any updates to the requirements.

2- Full Vaccination Card/Certificate:

Ensure you have a comprehensive vaccination card or certificate for your pet, indicating their vaccination history, including rabies and other required vaccines. This document is essential to demonstrate that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.

3- Microchip Identification:

Your pet must be microchipped with a standard ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. This microchip should be inserted before or at the time of rabies vaccination. Make sure the microchip is readable and functional.

4- Current Vaccinations:

Dogs must be vaccinated against Rabies and DHLP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Parvovirus). Cats must be vaccinated against Rabies, Tri-cat (Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia), Feligen, Feval5, and Fel-O-Vax (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia).

5- Copy of Owner’s Passport:

As the pet owner, you will be required to provide a copy of your passport as part of the import documentation.

It is important to note that these are the general requirements, and additional documentation or specific forms may be required based on your pet’s country of origin or other factors. We highly recommend contacting MOCCAE or a trusted pet relocation agency to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information for your specific situation.

Understanding the Pet Relocation Process

1- Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT):

If your pet is arriving from a high-risk country or a country not on the MOCCAE exempted list, a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) may be required.

The RNATT must be performed at an approved laboratory, and the results must be provided in the form of a laboratory report. It is important to note that this test should be conducted well in advance of your pet’s intended travel date, as it may take several weeks to receive the test results.

2- Obtain an Import Permit:

To bring your pet to the UAE, you must obtain an Import Permit from MOCCAE. The application process typically involves submitting the required documents, including the vaccination card/certificate, microchip details, and the laboratory report for the RNATT, if applicable.

You may apply for the Import Permit through the MOCCAE website or by contacting them directly. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing and any additional requirements that may arise.

3- Choose a Pet Relocation Agency or Handle the Process Yourself:

Relocating your pet to a new country involves various complexities and meticulous attention to detail. While it is possible to handle the process yourself, engaging a professional pet relocation agency can simplify the process and ensure compliance with all regulations and requirements.

A trusted agency will have experience in navigating the bureaucracy, coordinating with airlines and authorities, and providing end-to-end assistance to make the relocation as smooth as possible.

Read: What You Need to Know About Pet Relocation in Dubai

4- Arrange Flight and Transport:

Once you have obtained the Import Permit and made all necessary preparations, it is time to arrange the flight and transport for your pet. As mentioned earlier, pets must arrive in Dubai as manifested cargo, except for Etihad Airways passengers flying into Abu Dhabi who may have the option to bring their pet as accompanied baggage in-cabin under specific conditions. It is essential to coordinate with the airline and follow their guidelines regarding crates, health certificates, and other necessary documentation.

5- Post-Arrival:

Upon arrival in the UAE, your pet will undergo a document and health inspection at the port of entry. Ensure you have all the required documents readily available for inspection. Once cleared, you can take your furry friend home and begin their new life in the UAE.

Read: Dubai Municipality Pet Registration and Pet Tags

Checklist of Requirements:

To recap, here is a checklist of the key requirements for relocating your pet to the UAE:

Ensure your pet meets the minimum age requirement.
Confirm the import regulations for your pet’s breed.
Research and comply with airline restrictions.
Prepare your pet for a fit-to-fly assessment.
Determine the tax deductibility eligibility.
Gather the required documents, including the RNATT, vaccination card, microchip identification, and owner’s passport.
Apply for the Import Permit from MOCCAE.
Choose between handling the process yourself or engaging a pet relocation agency.
Arrange the flight and transport for your pet.
Complete document and health inspections upon arrival in the UAE.

Relocating your pets to the UAE requires careful planning, attention to detail, and compliance with the UAE’s import regulations.

By familiarizing yourself with the key points to consider, understanding the required documents and Ministry requirements, and following the step-by-step process, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation for your furry companions.

Summary Checklist for Relocating Pets to the UAE:

Check Minimum Age Requirement: Ensure your pet meets the minimum age requirement specified by the UAE government.
Confirm Breed Import Regulations: Research and comply with any specific import regulations for your pet’s breed.
Review Airline Restrictions: Check with airlines regarding their policies and restrictions on pet transportation.
Assess Fit-to-Fly: Consult your veterinarian for a fit-to-fly assessment to ensure your pet’s well-being during travel.
Explore Tax Deductibility: Determine if relocation expenses, including pet relocation, are tax-deductible in your country of origin.
Gather Required Documents:
- Copy of Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (if applicable)
- Full Vaccination Card/Certificate
- Microchip Identification
- Current Vaccinations
- Copy of Owner’s Passport
Apply for Import Permit: Obtain an Import Permit from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (MOCCAE) by submitting the necessary documents.
Choose Pet Relocation Option: Decide whether to handle the process yourself or engage a professional pet relocation agency.
Arrange Flight and Transport: Coordinate with the airline to book a flight for your pet and ensure compliance with their guidelines for crates and documentation.
Complete Document and Health Inspections: Upon arrival in the UAE, go through the document and health inspections at the port of entry.

Remember to stay informed about any updates or changes to the regulations, as import requirements may evolve over time. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official websites of relevant authorities or seek assistance from a trusted pet relocation agency.

Read: 10 Pet Relocation in Dubai

With the right preparations and guidance, you can look forward to embarking on an exciting new chapter with your pets in the UAE.