Qatar Airways Pet Transport Policy

Cargo available

Qatar Airways does not allow pets in the passenger cabin. All pets travel via Qatar Airways Cargo in temperature-controlled holds. The airline is based in Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH).

As a major Gulf hub airline and Oneworld member, Qatar Airways connects a vast network of routes through Doha. The summer heat in Qatar means live animal embargoes are common from roughly May through September, so timing matters for any transit through Doha.

This page covers the current pet transport policy, breed restrictions, temperature embargoes, and how to book. Policies change, so always confirm with the airline before making firm plans.

Policy Overview

Accepted Animals

Dogs, cats, and birds (subject to route and country restrictions)

Crate Requirements

IATA-compliant rigid container. Pet must be able to stand, sit upright, lie down, and turn around.

Size and Weight Limits

Varies by route and aircraft. Contact Qatar Airways Cargo for current limits.

Temperature Restrictions

Temperature embargoes during extreme heat in the Gulf region, typically May to September.

Brachycephalic Breeds

Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds not accepted as checked baggage. Acceptance as cargo is subject to vet certificate and seasonal conditions.

Cost Estimate

Varies by route, weight, and container size. Contact Qatar Airways Cargo for quotes.

How to Book

Must be booked through Qatar Airways Cargo or an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Qatar Airways does NOT allow dogs or cats in the passenger cabin on any route. All pets must travel as cargo.

Contact Qatar Airways Cargo directly or use an IPATA-accredited pet transport agent. Book well in advance, as live animal space is limited on most flights. Confirm the booking 48-72 hours before departure. Avoid planning transits through Doha during peak summer heat months.

Qatar enforces live animal embargoes during extreme heat, typically May through September. During these periods, pets may not be accepted even as cargo. Routes transiting through Doha are affected. An IPATA agent can advise on alternative routing when Doha embargoes are in effect.

Snub-nosed breeds are not accepted as checked baggage. Cargo acceptance depends on the route, season, and a supporting vet certificate. Always confirm the current policy before booking any brachycephalic breed on Qatar Airways.

At minimum: a valid veterinary health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel), proof of microchip (ISO 11784/11785), and up-to-date vaccination records. Destination country requirements apply separately and may include rabies titre test results, import permits, or government-endorsed health certificates. Confirm with Qatar Airways Cargo and your destination country’s import authority.

All airlines require IATA-compliant rigid crates for cargo pet transport. The crate must allow your pet to stand, sit upright, lie down, and turn around without touching the sides or top. Ventilation on at least three sides, a water container, and live animal labels are required. Soft-sided carriers are not accepted.

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