The process of relocating a pet to Dubai is regulated by a comprehensive local and international legal framework. From microchipping to vaccination and passports, owners are required to prepare in advance. A clear understanding of the requirements helps owners in a hassle-free pet relocation to Dubai.
Process of Pet Relocation to Dubai
The process of pet relocation to Dubai includes the following steps:
Step 1: Obtain an Import Permit
When bringing a pet to Dubai, owners must obtain an import permit by following these steps:
- Register with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)
- Log in and fill out the import permit application
- Pay the required fee
- Receive the permit digitally, which will be valid for 90 days from the date of issuance
Step 2: Meet Health and Transport Requirements
The health and transport requirements for bringing a pet to Dubai are as follows:
- A maximum of two companion animals per person can be imported during a year, except for pets returning to the Emirate.
- Pets must travel in accordance with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations.
- Pets must have a permanent microchip, and the chip number must match the number stated on the health certificate.
- Pets must be shipped directly from the exporting country. If they transit through another country, they must not come into contact with other animals during transit.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
The pet travelling to Dubai must be accompanied by the following documents:
- Health certificate from the competent veterinary authorities
- A passport or vaccination document, which must include the animal’s full description.
- For pets imported from high-risk countries, a rabies testing certificate is required. If the pet has received its first rabies vaccination, at least 21 days must pass before travel. This waiting period is not required for booster vaccinations.
- Importing Bengal and Serval cats, a pedigree certificate (fifth generation) is required.
- For returned pets, a veterinary health certificate, a microchip and rabies vaccination are necessary
Step 4: Pet Release on Arrival
Once the pet arrives, owners can complete the release process by following these steps.
- Fill out the release application digitally
- Pay for the pet release
- Wait for vision inspection
- Receive the release permit
Pet Relocation Cost in Dubai
For relocating a pet in Dubai, owners are subjected to the following charges:
- AED 200/head for issuing an import permit
- AED 500/dog to request the release
- AED 250/cat to request the release
Documentation Required for Pet Relocation to Dubai
The documents to import and release a pet in Dubai are mentioned below.
Documents for Import
For importing pets, no documents are required; however, for importing service, emotional support or medical dogs, the following documents are required:
- A certificate from the training centre
- Owners’ medical reports supporting the usage of service dogs
- A pledge from the owner for not transferring ownership, abandoning or breeding the animal
Documents for Release
The documents required for the release of pets are as follows:
- Bill of lading or customs declaration showing the delivery date
- Passport or immunisation documents showing the required data
- Health certificate issued by the competent veterinary authorities
- In case of importing from a high-risk country, a lab test certificate should be attached to the Antibody Titration Test for rabies
Terms and Conditions for Pet Travelling to Dubai
The owners importing a pet to Dubai must meet the terms and conditions mentioned below:
- A licence for Practising Animal Care Activities is necessary for the establishment, importing or exporting the animal.
- The rabies vaccination test results should be less than 0.5 IU/ml.
- The minimum age for importing a pet from low-risk countries is 12 weeks, while it is 15 weeks for high-risk countries.
- All vaccinations should be completed within 12 weeks of age and the validity of the vaccination will depend on the manufacturing company.
- The animal must receive a preventive dose for parasites at least 14 days before shipment.
- The personal import of pets should not be more than two cats or dogs per year.
- All the animal welfare legislation and standards must be followed.
Required Vaccination for Pets
The following vaccinations are required for cats and dogs travelling to Dubai
Vaccination for Dogs
- Rabies Vaccine 21 days before arrival (as per the vaccine manufacturer’s instructions)
- Leptospirosi
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis
- Canine Parvo Virus
Vaccination for Cats
- Rabies Vaccine 21 days before arrival (as per the vaccine manufacturer’s instructions)
- Feline Rhinotracheitis
- Feline Calicivirus
- Feline Pan Leukcopenia
On the non-compliance, the pet will be rejected or confiscated by the authorities.
FAQs
Do I need an import permit to bring my pet to the UAE?
Yes, an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) is required before bringing pets into the UAE. The permit is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
Which authority issues pet import permits in Dubai?
Pet import permits are issued through the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) in Dubai.
Is microchipping mandatory for pets entering the UAE?
Yes, pets must have a permanent microchip. The microchip number must match the number mentioned on the health certificate.
Can I bring my pet to Dubai in the aeroplane cabin?
Pets must travel in accordance with IATA transport conditions and the airline’s pet travel policy. Owners should confirm cabin, cargo or checked baggage rules with the airline before booking.
Are there restrictions on dog breeds in the UAE?
Yes, the UAE restricts the import of certain dog breeds, like Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, Brazilian Mastiff, Argentinian Mastiff and Cane Corso, among others.
Pet relocation in Dubai involves multiple steps, from securing an import certificate to vaccination and a release certificate. Proper planning helps pet owners to meet all the legal requirements and relocate their pet hassle-free. Aside from relocation, it is also important to choose a pet-friendly area in Dubai, as not all communities allow residents to keep pets. Whether buying or renting properties in Dubai, checking pet policies in advance can ensure a legally compliant experience.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog to learn more about animal health certificate requirements in Dubai.
