The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for expats and their pets, with many pet owners wanting to bring their furry friends along when they relocate. But what are the regulations around importing pets to the UAE? In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions around importing pets to the UAE.
Does the United Arab Emirates allow the import of pets?
Yes, the UAE allows the import of pets. However, there are certain restrictions and regulations that must be followed in order to bring your pet into the country.
Restrictions on which types of pets you can bring into the United Arab Emirates
The UAE only allows dogs and cats to be imported as pets. Other animals, such as birds, rabbits, and reptiles, are not allowed to be imported as pets.
Additionally, certain breeds of dogs are not allowed to be imported into the UAE, including Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Brazilian Fila.
Are there any vaccination requirements for bringing pets to the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, there are certain vaccination requirements that must be met in order to bring your pet into the UAE.
Dogs
Dogs must be vaccinated against:
- Canine distemper
- Hepatitis
- Leptospirosis
- Parvovirus
- Rabies
These vaccinations must be given at least 21 days before travel.
Cats
Cats must be vaccinated against:
- Feline calicivirus
- Feline herpesvirus
- Feline panleukopenia
- Rabies
These vaccinations must be given at least 21 days before travel.
What is the application procedure to import a pet to the United Arab Emirates?
In order to import a pet to the UAE, you must obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
Paperwork and other requirements needed to import a pet to the United Arab Emirates
In addition to the import permit, you will need to provide the following paperwork:
- Original and copy of your pet’s vaccination record
- Original and copy of your pet’s health certificate, issued by an accredited veterinarian
- Original and copy of your passport
- Original and copy of your pet’s microchip certificate
Your pet’s microchip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards.
You may also be required to provide additional documentation, depending on your specific situation.
Is a period of quarantine needed to import a pet to the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, a period of quarantine is required for pets entering the UAE. Dogs and cats must be quarantined for a period of 10 days upon arrival.
The quarantine facility must be pre-booked before arrival in the UAE, and all fees must be paid in advance.
Is the United Arab Emirates part of any international travel scheme for pets?
Yes, the UAE is a member of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which allows for certain pets to enter the country without the need for quarantine.
However, this scheme is only available for pets entering from the UK, and only certain airlines and airports are approved for travel under this scheme.
Do individuals need to obtain a licence for their pet in the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, individuals are required to obtain a licence for their pet in the UAE. This licence is issued by the MOCCAE, and requires proof of ownership, vaccination records, and a microchip certificate.
Is there a relevant government website which provides useful information on moving pets to the United Arab Emirates?
The UAE government has an official website called “Dubai.ae” which provides information on importing pets to the UAE. The website provides information on the import requirements, necessary documents, and procedures for bringing pets into the country. Additionally, the website also provides information on the quarantine and vaccination requirements for pets entering the UAE.
Another useful website is the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s website which provides detailed information on the import procedures and requirements for pets. The website also includes a list of approved countries and territories from which pets can be imported into the UAE.
Links to both websites are provided below:
- Dubai.ae: https://www.dubai.ae/en/Lists/HowToGuide/DispForm.aspx?ID=22&category=Animals%20and%20Pets&backurl=%2Fen%2FLists%2FHowToGuide%2Fcategory.aspx%3FCategoryId%3D17%26RootCatID%3D17%26lang%3Den
- Ministry of Climate Change and Environment: https://www.moccae.gov.ae/en/our-services/animal-welfare/pet-import.aspx
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