Pet Import to the UAE

The UAE is a popular destination for expats relocating with pets, and the process is more structured than it used to be. The core requirement is an import permit from the relevant emirate municipality before your pet travels. Dubai Municipality and Abu Dhabi’s ADAFSA have online application systems, but allow a week or two for processing.

There is one seasonal constraint that catches people off guard: summer. From roughly June to September, ground temperatures at UAE airports can exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Most airlines suspend or severely restrict pet cargo during these months. If you’re planning to bring your pet to the UAE, avoid the summer window entirely if you can.

A point specific to certain breeds: the UAE restricts several types, including Pit Bull types, Rottweilers in some emirates, and others. The list varies by emirate. Check the current regulations for the specific emirate you’re moving to, not just the federal rules.

Getting the import permit: Dubai vs Abu Dhabi

The UAE does not have a single national pet import system. You apply to the municipality of the emirate you’re moving to. Dubai permits go through Dubai Municipality (dm.gov.ae). Abu Dhabi permits go through ADAFSA. Each has an online portal. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days, but allow two weeks to be safe.

The permit is valid for 30 days from issue, so don’t apply too early. Confirm the fee before applying: Dubai charges approximately AED 200-300 at time of writing, Abu Dhabi a similar amount, but these can change.

Summer cargo embargo

Every year between roughly June and September, most airlines operating in the UAE suspend or severely restrict pet cargo. The reason is simple: ground temperatures at Dubai International Airport regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius, and the risk to animals in cargo holds is real. Emirates SkyCargo, Etihad Cargo, and most other airlines operating from Dubai and Abu Dhabi apply these seasonal restrictions.

If you’re planning a pet move to the UAE, the window from October to May is significantly safer and gives you far more airline options.

Breed restrictions by emirate

The UAE restricts several dog breeds, and the exact list varies by emirate. At federal and most emirate levels, Pit Bull types, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and Japanese Tosa are restricted or prohibited. Rottweilers and American Staffordshire Terriers are restricted in several emirates but not outright banned everywhere. Wolf hybrids are banned.

Check the regulations for the specific emirate you’re relocating to. The rules at municipality level are what matter in practice, and they can differ from one emirate to the next.