Pet Transport from the UAE to Australia: Approved Pathway Guide
The UAE is one of the busier departure points for pet relocations to Australia – driven by the large number of expats who pass through Dubai and Abu Dhabi on their way to Australian postings. The UAE’s approved status simplifies things considerably compared to countries like India or Pakistan, but Australia’s strict biosecurity means you still need many months of preparation.
Why the UAE Is a Better Starting Point
Because the UAE is on DAFF’s approved country list, your pet can fly directly to Melbourne without a third-country stop. This saves significant time and money compared to routes from non-approved countries.
The Full Preparation Process
At least 6 months before travel:
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
- Two rabies vaccinations – separated by the manufacturer’s recommended interval
- Rabies antibody titre test (FAVN) – blood drawn at least 180 days before Australian arrival, at an approved laboratory
- Apply for Australian import permit – via DAFF’s BICON system (bicon.agriculture.gov.au)
Within 10 days of travel: 5. Official health certificate – issued by a UAE government vet and endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) 6. Book a slot at the Mickleham quarantine facility (DAFF arranges this after import permit approval)
Approved Labs for Titre Testing in the UAE
The FAVN titre test blood must be sent to an OIE-approved reference laboratory. A Dubai-based or Abu Dhabi-based vet will draw the blood and ship it; most use labs in the UK or South Africa. Get the test done early – results can take three to four weeks.
The Quarantine Stay
The 10-day stay at Mickleham is not a punishment – it is a biosecurity check. The facility is professionally run, animals are housed in climate-controlled kennels, and there are regular exercise sessions. DAFF provides updates during the quarantine period.
Cost Expectations
Budget AUD 4,000 to AUD 10,000 for the full relocation, depending on the size of the animal, carrier choice, and whether you use a relocation agent. Emirates cargo rates for large dogs are among the most competitive on this route.
Practical Notes
- Only Melbourne Tullamarine (MEL) accepts pets for Australian quarantine. If your final destination is Sydney or Brisbane, you will need a domestic flight after quarantine release.
- DAFF charges quarantine fees payable on arrival. These are set by the government and non-negotiable.
Always check the latest import requirements on bicon.agriculture.gov.au. This guide is current as of May 2026.