If you are planning to relocate to Dubai as a freelancer or because you got a new job, there are a few things you would want to bring with you. This also applies to tourists who want to visit Dubai with their pets.
Related: The Dubai Digital Nomad Visa – How To Apply For The Dubai Remote Visa
For some, it’s the animal we call a man’s best friend, while to others its the animal that does not like being touched. If you know, you know.
Whether you want to bring a cat or a dog or both, here is what you need to know:
1. Import Permit:
- Get it online from MOCCAE before you travel.
- The permit is valid for 30 days.
2. Shipping:
- The pets must travel as cargo, following IATA rules.
3. Breed Restrictions (Dogs):
- The following breed of dogs are not allowed to enter the UAE: Pit Bulls, Japanese Tosas, Argentinian/Brazilian Mastiffs, Wolf Hybrids, and American Staffordshire Terriers are banned.
4. Required Documents:
- Vaccination Card/Passport: Microchip, birthdate, and vaccination records (Rabies, plus others listed below).
- Health Certificate: From your vet, confirming satisfactory health and microchip.
- Original Rabies Serum Neutralization test (RSNT): This certificate is needed if the pet is not from one of the approved countries below:
Australia, Austria, Andorra, Aruba, Barbados, Bahrain, Belgium, Comoros, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, French Polynesia, Falkland Island, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Mauritius, Malta, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, San Marino, Seychelles, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Vanuatu
5. Vaccinations & Treatments:
- Dogs: Rabies, Distemper, Parvo, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis.
- Cats: Rabies, Panleukopenia, Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus.
- Within 10 days before travel: Anti-parasite and deworming treatments.
6. Fees:
- Import permit: 500 AED.
- Cat inspection: 500 AED.
- Dog inspection: 1000 AED.
- Pay by E-Dirham, MasterCard, or Visa.
7. Important:
- Fines (5000 AED) and/or pet rejection/confiscation for non-compliance.
- Rabies vaccinations must be given after the pet reaches 3 months of age, and at least 21 days before travel.
