Jan 7, 2025
Relocating your pet to Dubai marks the beginning of your new life with your pet. No matter your purpose for moving to this pet-friendly city, bringing your companion along will require you to prepare certain documents for a smooth relocation process.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pet relocation in Dubai. We also listed recommendations on the best pet relocation services for a stress-free process.
Gathering the Required Documents
When planning a pet relocation in Dubai, one of the most important tasks is completing all the required documents for your pet’s move. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the pet relocation regulations specific to Dubai.
Import Permit from MOCCAE
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) is where you’ll begin the process of relocating your pet to Dubai. You’ll need to apply for an import permit through their website.
Depending on your pet’s species, you must complete a specific form for dogs, cats, or other animals. Keep in mind that each import permit is valid only for 30 days. Here are the fees you should expect to pay:
Importing cats and dogs (per head): AED 200
Request to release dogs (per head): AED 500
Request to release cats (per head): AED 250
Import permit fee (per head): AED 500
Cat inspection fee upon entry: AED 500
Dog inspection fee upon entry: AED 1000
Additionally, MOCCAE has a very detailed set of guidelines for pet relocation in Dubai. When importing dogs, you’ll generally need to take a look at the dog breeds prohibited for entry, such as:
All kinds of Pit Bulls
Japanese Tosa
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Wolf Dog Hybrid
American Staffordshire Terrier
Veterinary Health Certificate
A health certificate from a certified, licensed veterinarian is a vital requirement for pet relocation in Dubai. This document makes sure that your pet is fit for travel and meets health standards.
The vet will perform all necessary health checks and vaccinations for your pet. Once cleared and the vet has ensured your pet is healthy, the health certificate will be provided.
Pet Passport
A pet passport is another crucial document for pet relocation in Dubai. It contains all relevant information about your pet, including their vaccination records. Cats and dogs must be fully vaccinated before relocating to Dubai. Here are the essential vaccines your pet should have:
Essential Vaccinations for Dogs
Rabies
Canine Distemper Virus
Canine Parvovirus
Infectious Canine Hepatitis
Leptospirosis
Essential Vaccinations for Cats
Rabies
Feline Panleukopenia
Feline Rhinotracheitis
Feline Calicivirus
Another requirement for pet relocation is microchipping your pet according to Dubai’s ISO standards. Microchipping is a mandatory requirement for cats and dogs in Dubai. Upon arrival in Dubai, a 15-digit microchip will help identify your pet.
Planning Your Pet’s Relocation to Dubai
Before you begin gathering the documents for your pet, know that certain documents may have expiration dates, like health certificates. You need to plan and schedule when you’ll be applying and acquiring documents wisely to avoid any delays.
Now that you’re familiar with the needed documents, the next thing you must work on is planning the actual relocation of your pet to Dubai.
Choosing the Right Airline
Selecting the best airline for your pet is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when relocating your pet to Dubai. Not all airlines are equal when handling pets, so you must choose one that prioritizes their comfort and safety. Here are some of the top airlines we recommend.
Emirates Airline
Emirates Airline is a top choice for pet owners relocating to Dubai. While Emirates doesn't allow pets in the cabin, their SkyCargo service makes sure your pets can join you in a safe and comfortable spot dedicated to pets.
Following IATA's Live Animal Regulations, Emirates ensures that each pet is well taken care of. Emirates has a dedicated facility in Dubai for all departing, arriving, and transiting pets. Specialists are also available to help with pet owners' requests.
Pets are transported in dedicated cargo areas designed for maintaining a comfortable temperature, even in Dubai’s hot weather. They use specially designed vehicles from the facility to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is another popular option for pet owners flying with their pets, especially those traveling to and from Abu Dhabi. Etihad allows pet owners to book seats for their pets in Economy and Business classes.
If you’re coming from another location, Etihad has a LiveAnimals program to transport your pets. From handling to boarding, each step is carefully done to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
They have dedicated staff to assist pets as they ascend the ramp to the aircraft. The cargo is also climate-controlled and pressurized so that these compartments will be comfortable throughout the flight.
Additionally, Etihad has dedicated vehicles and animal handling facilities to ensure these pet passengers are relaxed while waiting for their flight. They also have dedicated experts in these facilities who check on these pets constantly.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa offers a great way to travel with your pet. They have complete guidelines for bringing your pet on the flight. If your pet weighs less than 8 kg, it can be registered as additional carry-on baggage and stay with you in the cabin. However, larger pets must stay in the cargo hold.
Their cargo hold is extremely comfortable for pets. It is air-conditioned and designed to keep pets relaxed throughout the flight.
The area also has adequate space. However, you must register your pet at least 72 hours before your flight to ensure a smooth registration process.
Using a Pet Relocation Service
You can certainly work on the pet relocation process on your own. However, you may also want to consider working with professional relocation services for an easier and smoother relocation.
These services offer professional assistance for securing documents, booking flights, and meeting airline requirements. Here are some recommended pet relocation services in Dubai.
Sandy Paws
Sandy Paws is considered one of Dubai's most reliable pet relocation services. With over 10,000 pets relocated, they are experts in creating a comfortable experience for the pet and its owner.
They’ll find you a trusted agent within the country of origin. From there, Sandy Paws will work with the agent to secure your documents, so all you have to worry about is packing. Once everything is finalized, they’ll safely deliver your pet to you at your new home.
Whether you need to relocate one, two, or more pets, their rates remain the same. Their pet relocation experts are available 24/7 to help you with your concerns and inquiries.
JetSet Pets
JetSet Pets is another great pet relocation service that seeks to make the move seamless and stress-free. They have a detailed step-by-step procedure that shows how they do the process.
They’ll need information on your pets, flights, and other related matters. This will allow them to create the best experience for you. They’ll handle all the permits, vet visits for the health certificate, and other documents you need for the pet relocation process.
JetSet Pets will also handle urgent concerns, such as booking boarding services for your pet and securing quarantine upon arrival. They’ll also handle transportation so your pet can arrive safely at your new home.
Pawsome Pets
Pawsome Pets is an experienced pet relocation company providing one-on-one experience with clients. They’ll spend the time to get to know you and your pet and everything you need for the relocation process.
With their service, they can prepare and organize every requirement, including travel documentation, health certificates, and import and export permit applications. They also take care of IATA-approved carriers, calming collars, and other pet essentials.
Pawsome Pets wants to give pet owners peace of mind, so they’ll also provide regular updates and organize boarding services for your pet before and after the flight. With their air-conditioned vehicles, they’ll transport your pet to your home on the agreed date.
Helping Your Pet Adjust in Dubai
Once your pet arrives in Dubai, they’ll need time to adjust to the new environment and climate. Moving to a new country via plane can initially leave your pet feeling anxious or disoriented. This is why you must help your pet settle into their new home. Here are some tips you can do.
Create a Comfortable Space – Make sure your pet has a quiet, cozy area to rest and recover after the relocation journey.
Provide Extra Attention – Spend quality time with your pet by offering comfort, affection, treats, and playtime to help them feel at home.
Monitor Their Behavior – Keep an eye on any changes in their behavior or appetite to know if they are adjusting well or if they need more care and attention.
Find a Trusted Veterinary Clinic – If you’re unsure of your companion’s condition after the pet relocation to Dubai, find a trusted veterinary clinic near you and schedule a vet consultation.
With patience and attention, your pet will eventually adjust to their new life in Dubai. It might help if you bring them along while you explore Dubai. Many pet-friendly restaurants, cafes, and other establishments around Dubai welcome and accommodate pets.
Conclusion
Pet relocation in Dubai can be complicated, but with the right preparation and support, it doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your pet.
By gathering the needed documents, choosing the right airline, and using the best professional services, you can make sure your pet’s relocation is smooth, stress-free, and successful. Following this guide will make the process as easy as possible for you and your companion.