Pet Relocation to Dubai: Laws, Processes, Charges & More

Have you recently relocated to Dubai, but had to leave your beloved pet behind? Or perhaps you're already settled but missing your furry friend who's still in your home country? Whatever your circumstances, bringing your pet to join you in Dubai is possible and manageable with the right guidance.

This guide will provide you with a detailed walkthrough of the entire process, covering legal frameworks, preparation steps, and costs, and conclude with recommendations for pet relocation services in Dubai.

Legal Requirements for Pet Relocation to Dubai

Relocating a pet to Dubai involves strict adherence to legal protocols to ensure both animal welfare and compliance with UAE laws.

Import Permit

Before your pet can enter Dubai, you must obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). This permit is crucial and must be secured before travel.
The import permit is valid for 30 days, meaning your pet’s travel must occur within this timeframe.

Shipping Regulations

Pets must be transported in manifested cargo according to International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. This ensures pets are safely secured in appropriate conditions during flights.
Pets are not allowed to travel with the owner as excess luggage or in-cabin. This regulation helps ensure the safety and comfort of pets during the long journey.

Banned Breeds

Certain dog breeds are prohibited due to perceived aggressive tendencies or potential danger. This list includes Pit Bulls, all breeds of Mastiff such as the Argentinian and Brazilian Mastiff, Japanese Tosa, and hybrids like Wolfdogs. Specific regulations apply to breeds like American Staffordshire Terriers.

There are also restrictions on importing dangerous or endangered species that are protected under international law. This includes certain types of primates, carnivores not typically kept as pets, and endangered bird species.

Age and Health Requirements

The minimum age of an imported animal from the low-risk countries will be 12 while the minimum age for importing from the high-risk countries is not less than 15 weeks.
Pets must arrive with a valid health certificate from the exporting country, certifying them free of infectious diseases and fit for travel.
Birds, including ornamental birds and other non-listed CITES species, require specific health certifications and may need additional quarantine measures depending on their country of origin.
Importation of reptiles and amphibians is subject to strict controls, requiring detailed health certificates and proof of legal ownership and origin.
A Rabies Vaccination is mandatory, and a Rabies Serum Neutralization test (RSNT) may be required, depending on the country of origin.
Additional Vaccinations: For dogs, this includes Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, and Leptospirosis. Cats require vaccinations against Feline Panleukopenia, Rhinotracheitis, and Calicivirus.

Preparing for Pet Relocation to Dubai

Relocating pets to Dubai requires meticulous preparation across documentation, health checks, and understanding specific transit requirements.

Documentation and Identification

All pets, including birds and exotic animals, must be identified with a microchip. The microchip number should match the one listed on all accompanying documents.
An import permit is crucial and must be obtained from MOCCAE before travel for every type of pet.
Each pet must have a valid health certificate issued by the veterinary authorities in the exporting country, certifying the pet’s health status and suitability for travel.

Vaccinations and Health Requirements

The vaccination requirements for dogs include Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, and Leptospirosis.
For cats, the vaccination requirements are Panleukopenia, Rhinotracheitis, and Calicivirus.
The rabies vaccine should not be administered before the animal is 12 weeks old, and there should be a 21-day gap between vaccination and travel.
For Birds the required health checks might include tests for Avian Influenza and other specific diseases depending on the species. Vaccinations should be documented, and any specific health treatments noted.
For other exotic animals and reptiles' specific health tests (depending on the species) may be required to screen for diseases common to the animal type. Documentation should include details of any preventative treatments for parasites, both internal and external.

Pre-Shipping Treatments

All pets must be treated for internal and external parasites within 10 days prior to shipping. This typically involves treatments with approved antiparasitics like Fipronil or Permethrin and anthelmintics such as Praziquantel.

Transit Procedures

All pets must travel in IATA-approved crates that provide adequate space, ventilation, and comfort for the specific type of animal.
Pets must be shipped directly from the country of origin to the UAE or through approved transit procedures if a layover is unavoidable.
If the journey involves transit through other countries, a transit permit might be required, and pets must be kept isolated from other animals to prevent disease transmission.

Costs Involved in Pet Relocation to Dubai

Relocating pets to Dubai involves various expenses that can significantly impact your budget. This section breaks down the potential costs you may encounter throughout the process, from government fees to transportation and additional services.

Government and Administrative Fees

Import Permit Fee: Each pet requires an import permit, costing approximately AED 200 per pet.
Entry Inspection Fees: Upon arrival, inspection fees are applicable; AED 500 for each cat and AED 1000 for each dog. Fees for other animals vary based on the species and required health inspections.
Transit Permit Fees: Additional permit fees may apply if your pet's journey includes a transit through another country.

Transportation Costs

Cargo Shipping Fees: Costs vary widely depending on the airline, the size of the pet, and the distance traveled. Pets must be shipped in IATA-compliant crates, which may also incur costs if not already owned.
Special Handling and Care: Exotic pets or those with special needs may require additional handling fees for temperature control, specific dietary needs, or extra space during transit.

Veterinary and Preparatory Costs

Health Checks and Vaccinations: Comprehensive veterinary checks are required. This includes vaccinations, parasite treatments, and any special health tests dictated by the pet's species and the country of origin.
Microchipping and Documentation: Costs for microchipping, obtaining all necessary health certifications, and exporting documentation from your local vet or government authority.

Additional Services

Professional Relocation Services: Hiring a professional pet relocation service can ease the burden of managing logistics and paperwork. These services typically offer comprehensive packages that handle everything from obtaining permits to final delivery but come at a higher cost.
Boarding and Care: If your travel schedule does not align perfectly with your pet’s shipping date, you may need to consider boarding services which can add to the overall cost.

Pet Relocation Services in Dubai

These services can simplify the process by handling the logistics, documentation, and special care needs of your pets. Here's a list of some top pet relocation companies in Dubai that are renowned for their expertise and reliability.

Snoopy Pets

Provides door-to-door relocation services worldwide, managing all aspects of the relocation process.

Location: Unit 27, European Business Centre, Dubai Investment Park 1
Contact: +971 4 321 3095
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7 am - 7 pm

JetSet Pets

Tailors service to individual needs, assisting with documentation, travel arrangements, and pet boarding if necessary.

Location: English Cluster Y17, International City
Contact: +971 56 212 1200
Operational Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am - 6 pm | Saturday, 11 am - 5 pm.

Dubai Kennels & Cattery (DKC)

Official animal handler for Emirates Airline and Dnata, providing import/export documentation, pet transportation, and more.

Locations: Motor City & Umm Ramool
Contact: +971 4 211 4800
Operational Hours:
- Umm Ramool: Monday to Friday, 8 am - 7 pm | Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm.
- Motor City: Monday to Friday, 9 am - 5 pm

We hope this information proves valuable as you prepare to reunite with your pet in Dubai, making your new life in the UAE a happy and fulfilling experience for every member of your family, including the furry ones!