Regarding the importing of pets into Oman, many expats have successfully managed to relocate animals when moving to the country. This includes small domestic animals such as cats and dog and even larger animals such as horses. All pets need to have the relevant paperwork, be micro chipped plus have up to date vaccinations before they will be considered for entry into Oman.

A permit needs to be requested from the Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture; the permit will only be issued if all pre-requisites are met. All pets need to be a minimum of 4 months old at the time of arriving into the country, all vaccines must be up to date including rabies shots which must have been administered within the correct time frame. Up to date health records from your vet are required as is micro chipping. As long as all documentation is in order there should be no quarantine time, but upon landing in Oman the pet will have to have a vet inspection, for which there will be an additional charge. You will receive stamped paperwork from the vet and then you will be allowed to take your pet to your new home.

There are many vets available in Oman; most offer a very high standard of service. It should also be fairly easy to find an English speaking vet as some will have studied in the UK and the US. There are an increasing number of outlets which sell well known brands of pet food such as Pedigree and Friskies so finding pet supplies should not cause too much of a headache.

It is worth noting that recently a law has been passed stating that dogs are only allowed to be walked between the hours of 10am and 3pm, and given the climate these are not ideal walking times for either dog or owner. Also many beaches now have signs saying ‘No Dogs’ meaning that you must only walk along the hot roads, and often local children throw rocks and sticks at dogs even when they are walking on a lead with their owners. There is also a police campaign to poison the stray dogs in certain neighbourhoods. Many pets have been killed this way even while walking with their owners.

As such many expats are advising that although it is as simple to bring your pet here as to any other country, it may not be in the best interest of the animal to do so.