Bringing pets in Dubai is a seamless process for expats and families when following UAE pet import requirements. In 2026, updated regulations from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) ensure animal welfare while minimising health risks like rabies.
Understanding UAE Pet Import Regulations in 2026
UAE animal import rules prioritise public health and biosecurity. Cats and dogs must obtain an MOCCAE import permit valid for 90 days before arrival. Maximum two pets per person annually, extendable to five via agents.
Permits require an online application via the MOCCAE portal, costing around AED 200-500. High-risk countries (most excluding low-risk list) need rabies titer tests ≥0.5 IU/ml, valid 365 days post-vaccination.
Low-risk countries like Australia, the UK, Japan, and the UAE residents' pets skip titers but need core vaccines. Banned breeds include Pit Bulls and Mastiffs (except service animals).
Step-by-Step Guide to Pets to Dubai
Step 1: Microchipping Your Pet
All cats and dogs must have an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip implanted before vaccinations. Record the number on all documents for traceability.
Veterinarians confirm chip functionality; non-compliant chips lead to entry denial.
Step 2: Essential Vaccinations for Cats and Dogs
Vaccinate at least 21 days before travel if first rabies shot; boosters allow immediate testing.
Dogs require:
- Rabies (valid 1-3 years)
- DHPPiL (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis)
- Anti-parasite treatment (internal/external) 14 days prior
Cats require:
- Rabies
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
- Same anti-parasite protocol
Medically, these prevent zoonotic diseases; consult vets for breed-specific needs like Brucella for dogs from endemic areas.
Step 3: Rabies Titer Test for High-Risk Origins
From high-risk countries, conduct RNATT (Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titer Test) 21 days post-rabies vaccine, 12 weeks to 12 months before entry. Labs like Kansas State approve results.
Test ensures immunity; levels below 0.5 IU/ml require revaccination and retest.
Step 4: Health Certificate and Veterinary Inspection
Obtain a health certificate from official vets within 5-10 days of travel. It details microchip, vaccines, titer, and declares pet fit for travel (no infectious diseases).
Include owner declaration: pet for personal use, not commercial/breeding.
Step 5: IATA-Compliant Travel Crate
Use airline-approved crates meeting IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR). Size allows pet to stand, turn, lie down; absorbent bedding, secure doors.
Acclimatise the pet 1-2 weeks prior to reduce stress.
Airline Policies for UAE Pet Import
Major carriers like Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai allow pets in the cabin (small cats/dogs <8kg), checked baggage, or cargo. Cabin: max dimensions 40x40x22cm.
Cargo suits larger pets; temperatures must stay 7-28°C—no summer shipments June-Sept often. Costs: AED 8,000-25,000 door-to-door.
Sedation is discouraged medically; it risks respiratory issues. Use vet-prescribed mild anxiolytics if needed.
Customs Clearance at UAE Airports
Upon DXB or AUH arrival, pets undergo MOCCAE vet inspection. Present permit, health cert, vaccines. Fees ~AED 500-1,000; quarantine rare if compliant (up to 30 days otherwise).
Non-compliance: fines AED 5,000+, re-export, or euthanasia in extreme cases.
Costs Involved in UAE Pet Import Requirements
|
Category |
Cats (AED) |
Dogs (AED) |
|
Microchip & Vaccines |
500-1,000 |
700-1,500 |
|
Rabies Titer |
1,500-2,500 |
1,500-2,500 |
|
Import Permit |
200-500 |
200-500 |
|
Crate |
500-1,500 |
1,000-3,000 |
|
Air Transport (Cargo) |
3,000-6,000 |
6,000-12,000 |
|
Clearance/Agency |
2,500-4,500 |
3,000-5,000 |
|
Total |
8,000-16,000 |
12,000-25,000 |
A company like Dubai Packers and Movers bundles for efficiency.
Health and Wellness Tips for Pets in Dubai
Dubai's heat (up to 45°C) stresses pets; acclimatise gradually. Provide shade, water, avoid walks 11 am-3 pm. Vaccinate against Leishmania if outdoors.
Annual check-ups monitor for heatstroke and dehydration. Pets to Dubai thrive with AC homes and filtered water.
Prohibited Breeds and Exceptions
14 breeds banned: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Pit Bulls, Mastiffs, Tosa, etc. Service/emotional support animals are exempt with docs.
Exotic hybrids (wolf-dogs, Bengals <5th gen) restricted.
Post-Arrival Care and Registration
Register the pet with the local municipality within 14 days (AED 100-300). License requires vaccines, microchip. Pet-friendly rentals are common in Jumeirah, Downtown.
Parks like Mushrif offer exercise; vets abound.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting late: 4-7 months prep needed.
- Expired docs: Permit 90 days max.
- Wrong crate: Delays/fines.
- Ignoring weather: No hot-season cargo.
Partner with pros like Dubai Packers and Movers for compliance.
FAQ
What are the UAE pet import regulations for cats in 2026?
Cats need a microchip, rabies/FVRCP vaccines, a health cert, MOCCAE permit. High-risk origins require a titer ≥0.5 IU/ml. Max 2/year.
Do dogs need a rabies titer for pets to Dubai?
Yes, from high-risk countries; test 21 days post-vaccine, valid 365 days if boosters continue.
How much does uae animal import cost for a small dog?
AED 12,000-25,000 total, including flights, permits, and clearance.
What vaccines are mandatory under UAE pet import requirements?
Rabies, core combo (DHPPiL dogs, FVRCP cats), anti-parasites 14 days prior.
Can I bring more than two pets in Dubai?
Yes, up to 5 via accredited agents; personal limit 2.
Are there banned dog breeds for UAE pet import?
Yes, 14 breeds like Pit Bulls, Mastiffs; service animals exempt.
Relocating pets in Dubai demands precision, but rewards with UAE's pet-loving culture. For hassle-free uae pet import, contact Dubai Packers and Movers—experts in pet-inclusive moves with full compliance support.
