Bringing a pet to Dubai requires navigating specific regulations and preparations. This blog post simplifies the process, offering a practical guide based on the official guidelines from Dubai’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. From legal requirements to settling in with your pet, we provide all the essential information you need for a smooth transition. Let’s dive into the essentials of making your pet’s move to Dubai as seamless as yours.
Reading time: 5 min
Table of Contents
Overview of Dubai’s Pet Import Regulations
Dubai has specific regulations for importing pets, which must be carefully followed to ensure a smooth relocation process for your pet.
Essential Legal Requirements
- Travel and Import Permit: Your pet must have a designated travel and import permit, valid for around four weeks.
- Documentation: You’ll need a copy of your passport, Emirates ID, and the permit to import your pet. This permit is essential for customs clearance and travel planning.
- Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is vaccinated against diseases like rabies, Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Parvo Virus, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis. Original vaccination cards and microchip paperwork are required.
- Health Certificates: A certificate from your home country or export country stating that your pet is free of health issues and fit to travel. Also, a Rabies Serum Neutralization certificate and a minimum titer test result (0.5UL/ML or more) are required.
- Microchipping: Pets must be microchipped, with details matched in the medical certificates.
- Quarantine and Feeding Arrangements: Owners are responsible for feeding pets during any quarantine as per local guidelines in the UAE.
Specific Breeds Banned or with Restrictions
Certain breeds are banned from import to the UAE, including American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Brazilian Mastiff, Argentinian Mastiff, Dobermann, Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Presa Canario, Boxers, Wolf Hybrids, and Japanese Tosa.
Costs
The cost of a travel permit for a cat or dog is AED 500. Inspection rates are AED 500 for cats and AED 1,000 for dogs.
Pre-Shipping Requirements
- Pets must be shipped in a crate approved by the International Air and Transport Association (IATA).
- Pets must be dewormed and treated for external parasites.
Remember, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on the regulations and ensure that all paperwork and vaccines are up-to-date. Also, check if your pet’s breed is on the ‘no-fly’ list to avoid any complications during import.
Preparations Before Travel
For pet owners preparing to travel to Dubai with their pets, here’s a practical and updated guide on the necessary preparations:
Veterinary Checks and Health Certificates
- Export Health Certificate: Obtain a DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) Export Health Certificate confirming your pet meets the importing country’s entry requirements.
- Final Veterinarian Appointment: Ensure your pet has a country-specific health certificate issued by a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian (if traveling from the U.S.), no older than 10 days at the time of departure. This includes treatments for internal and external parasites within 14 days of travel.
Importance of Microchipping and Vaccinations
- Microchipping: Your pet must have a microchip, with both ISO and AVID chips being acceptable. Ensure the microchip is functional and can be read before travel.
- Rabies Vaccine: Administer the rabies vaccine when your pet is at least 12 weeks old, and it must be done at least 21 days before travel.
- Other Vaccinations: Dogs require DHLPP (distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, and parvovirus) vaccines, while cats need FVRCP (calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, parvovirus) vaccines. Ensure these are up-to-date.
Acquiring the Necessary Pet Import Permit
- Apply for an import permit from the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, providing your pet’s vaccination records.
- The import permit process can take from three days to two weeks and is valid for one month from the date of issue.
- Start crate training your pet early since pets can only arrive in the UAE as manifest cargo.
Additional Tips
- Puppies and kittens under 4 months of age are not permitted for import in the UAE.
- Consider direct flights to minimize stress on your pet, and verify with airlines about their policies and facilities for pets during layovers and travel.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and compliant process for bringing your pet to Dubai.
Choosing pet-friendly airlines and understanding their policies
When choosing pet-friendly airlines and understanding their policies for travel to Dubai, here are some updated and practical details:
| Airline | Pet Policy Highlights |
|---|---|
| Emirates Airlines |
|
| Etihad Airways |
|
| Qatar Airways |
|
| Flydubai |
|
| Gulf Air |
|
| Air Canada and United Airlines |
|
| Other Notable Airlines |
|
General Considerations
- All pets must be transported in an approved pet carrier and be up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Pets must wear a collar with identification tags, including the pet’s name, owner’s name and contact information, and any relevant medical information.
- It’s important to check with the specific airline for their pet policy, as requirements and restrictions can vary.
When planning pet travel, it’s crucial to understand the specific airline’s policies, including fees, crate requirements, health and vaccination requirements, and any breed restrictions. Booking well in advance and ensuring compliance with all regulations will help ensure a smooth journey for your pet.
suggested article
Last Word
Bringing your pet to Dubai involves meticulous planning and adherence to specific guidelines. From obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring your pet meets health and vaccination requirements, to choosing the right airline and preparing for travel, each step is crucial for a hassle-free experience. Remember to stay updated on the latest regulations, choose pet-friendly airlines, and prepare your pet for the journey. With careful planning and attention to detail, you and your pet can look forward to a smooth and enjoyable start to your new adventure in Dubai.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions about bringing pets into Dubai.
What are the costs associated with obtaining a travel permit for my pet?
The cost of a travel permit for a cat or dog is AED 500. Inspection rates are AED 500 for cats and AED 1,000 for dogs.
Are there any specific breeds banned from import to the UAE?
Yes, certain breeds are banned, including American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Brazilian Mastiff, Argentinian Mastiff, Dobermann, Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Presa Canario, Boxers, Wolf Hybrids, and Japanese Tosa.
What should I do to prepare my pet for shipping to Dubai?
Pets must be shipped in a crate approved by the International Air and Transport Association (IATA). They also need to be dewormed and treated for external parasites.
What vaccinations are required for my pet before traveling to Dubai?
Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Parvo Virus, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis for dogs, and similar necessary vaccinations for cats.
How do I acquire a pet import permit for Dubai?
Apply for an import permit from the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, providing your pet’s vaccination records. The process can take up to two weeks.
