Pet Transport from Ireland to the United Arab Emirates
The Ireland to United Arab Emirates import process
Responsible: Your veterinarian
Responsible: Your veterinarian
Responsible: You (or your pet transport agent)
Responsible: You
Responsible: DAFM-authorised official veterinarian
Responsible: You and the airline cargo desk
Which United Arab Emirates rules depend on a pet coming from Ireland?
The United Arab Emirates sorts countries into 2 groups, and Ireland falls in “Low-risk countries”.
No rabies titre test required; animal must be at least 12 weeks old. Official source
The rules that apply to every pet entering the United Arab Emirates, whatever the origin, are listed with their official sources in our United Arab Emirates guide.
What does Ireland require before your pet leaves?
- Export permit: Not required: DAFM's list of what an owner needs to travel or relocate out of the EU with a pet contains only contacting the destination for its certification requirements, following its health certificate instructions, contacting the Regional Veterinary Office at least 2 months ahead, allowing time for tests and making sure the pet qualifies to return; no Irish export permit is listed. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Ireland for non-EU countries.
Pet Travel (last updated 5 August 2026), checked 1 October 2026 - Export health certificate: For pets leaving Ireland for non-EU destinations, the private vet prepares the pet and the health certificate, then the owner takes it to the local Regional Veterinary Office (DAFM) for a government stamp and signature. DAFM does not hold destination requirements. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Ireland for non-EU countries.
Pet Travel (last updated 5 August 2026), checked 1 October 2026 - Export health certificate: Contact the Regional Veterinary Office at least two months before travel, or DAFM may not be able to sign. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Ireland for non-EU countries.
Pet Travel (last updated 5 August 2026), checked 1 October 2026
What this route typically costs
Critical points
Emirates imposes heat embargoes on pet cargo during summer months (typically June to September) when Dubai temperatures exceed thresholds. Check with Emirates SkyCargo before booking summer travel.
No cabin pets on Emirates. Cargo is the only option from Dublin.
Certain breeds are banned or restricted in the UAE regardless of origin, including many brachycephalic breeds and specific dog breeds. Verify with the relevant emirate authority before travel.
Approved carriers on this route
| Airline | Notes | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates | Direct service from Dublin to Dubai (DXB). Pets travel as manifest cargo via Emirates SkyCargo. No cabin pets on any Emirates route. Book through Emirates SkyCargo or an accredited cargo agent. Seasonal heat embargoes apply for summer months. | Cargo Only |
| Etihad Airways | No direct Dublin to Abu Dhabi service. Routing via other European hubs. Pets travel via Etihad Cargo. Confirm routing and seasonal restrictions before booking. | Cargo Only |
Common questions about this route
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Requirements on this page were checked against the authorities below. Rules change, so confirm current conditions with the relevant authority before you travel.