Pet Transport to UAE: Import Rules for Dogs and Cats in 2026
Pet transport to UAE requires strict compliance with official veterinary and customs regulations. Bringing a dog or cat to Dubai in 2026 involves obtaining an Import Permit, completing mandatory vaccinations, microchipping, and arranging air cargo transportation according to MOCCAE requirements.
Pet transport to UAE is regulated by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Without an approved import permit and properly prepared documents, pets are not allowed to enter the country.
Why Pet Transport to UAE Is Processed as Cargo
In most cases, pet transport to UAE must be arranged as manifest cargo. Even if an airline allows pets in the cabin, entry procedures in Dubai require cargo documentation and inspection upon arrival.
Professional pet transport to UAE ensures:
• Import Permit application and approval
• ISO-standard microchip verification
• Valid rabies vaccination and required boosters
• IATA-approved travel crate
• Air cargo booking to Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Planning pet transport to UAE in advance helps avoid delays, fines, or refusal at customs.
General Rules for Importing Dogs and Cats to the UAE
Allowed Animals
The UAE permits the import of:
- Dogs
- Cats
Other animal species require special approval and additional permits.
Quantity Limit
One owner may import no more than two pets per year.
Minimum Age
Pets must be at least 4 months old at the time of entry into the UAE.
Is Cargo Transport Mandatory for Dubai?
In most cases, dogs and cats entering the UAE must travel as manifest cargo. Even if an airline allows in-cabin transportation, pets are processed as cargo upon arrival in the UAE.
Therefore, transporting pets to Dubai requires:
- Air cargo booking
- An IATA-compliant travel crate
- A complete documentation package
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import a Dog or Cat to Dubai
Step 1. Obtain an Import Permit
The Import Permit is issued by MOCCAE (Ministry of Climate Change and Environment UAE).
Required documents:
- Copy of the owner’s passport
- Microchip details
- Vaccination certificate
- Completed online application
- Government fee payment
The Import Permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
Without this permit, the pet will not be allowed to enter the UAE.
Step 2. Microchipping
Dogs and cats must be implanted with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip.
Important: The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.
Step 3. Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccination (Mandatory)
- Administered at least 21 days before entry
- Valid for no more than 12 months
- Recorded in the international pet passport
Additional Recommended Vaccines
- Dogs: DHPPi (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, etc.)
- Cats: FVRCP
Step 4. Rabies Titer Test (If Required)
For pets arriving from high-risk rabies countries, a Rabies Titer Test is required. The blood test must be performed in an accredited laboratory.
Step 5. International Veterinary Health Certificate
Issued 5–7 days before departure.
Mandatory parasite treatment includes:
- External parasites (fleas and ticks)
- Internal parasites
IATA Requirements for Pet Transportation
For air shipment to Dubai, the travel crate must comply with IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR):
- Durable plastic crate
- Ventilation on four sides
- Proper size (pet must be able to stand and turn around)
- Water container attached
- Secure fastenings
Incorrect crate selection is one of the most common reasons for transport refusal.
Arrival Inspection at Dubai Airport
Upon arrival, authorities will verify:
- Import Permit
- Veterinary health certificate
- Vaccination records
- Microchip number
- Cargo documentation
If all documents are correctly prepared, quarantine is not required.
Why Not Import Through Abu Dhabi?
In some cases, procedures in Abu Dhabi may differ in terms of cargo processing. Most international pet shipments are routed through Dubai (DXB), where there is a well-established system for pet cargo import.
Before shipment, always confirm the current requirements of the specific emirate.
Common Mistakes When Importing Pets to the UAE
❌ Missing Import Permit
❌ Incorrect microchip format
❌ Expired rabies vaccination
❌ Incorrect cargo booking
❌ Non-compliant travel crate
Any mistake may result in delays or refusal of entry.
Turnkey Pet Transportation to the UAE
Professional international pet transport companies provide:
✔ Import Permit processing
✔ Document verification
✔ IATA-compliant crate preparation
✔ Air cargo booking
✔ Arrival assistance in Dubai
✔ Consultation on UAE import regulations
Transporting dogs and cats to Dubai requires precision, experience, and up-to-date knowledge of regulations.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my dog in the airplane cabin?
In most cases, entry to the UAE is processed as cargo. Even if the airline allows cabin transport, pets are handled as cargo upon arrival.
Is quarantine required?
No quarantine is required if all documents comply with UAE regulations.
How long does the process take?
On average, 2–4 weeks, including Import Permit issuance and document preparation.
How to get a dog or cat in the UAE (Dubai) – with official sources
Main regulator- Transportation of dogs and cats to the UAE is carried out in accordance with the requirements of MOCCAE.
MOCCAE — Ministry of Climate Change & Environment UAE
Official website of the Ministry of Climate Change & Environment of the UAE – the agency that issues permits for the import of pets.
🔗 https://www.moccae.gov.ae/en/services/import-permit-pets
List of rules for importing animals
UAE Ministry of Transport + veterinary requirements for importing pets
Formal rules for importing dogs and cats with recommendations for documents and quarantine.
🔗https://simplepettravel.com/uae
Air transportation in accordance with international standards
IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) – official standards for transporting animals as cargo.
🔗 https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/live-animals/
Additional information on bringing pets
AirTransportAnimal – the official resource for transporting pets to Dubai
Import rules, documentation and handling of pets are described in detail.
🔗 https://www.airtransportanimal.com/en/bringing-pets-to-dubai
Microchip and vaccination requirements
USDA Pet Travel – the official guide to importing pets internationally
Explains in detail the microchip and vaccination requirements used as international practice.
🔗 https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel
Additional government requirements
UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention
Source of information on sanitary and epidemiological rules for bringing pets.
🔗 https://www.mohap.gov.ae/en/services
Read more about international animal transportation on our services page.
