Guaranteed Comfort and Complete Care for Your Pet.

What You Need to Know Before Traveling With Your Pet to Dubai


Traveling with your pet to Dubai can be exciting, but it takes planning. Dubai has strict rules for bringing animals into the country. If you don’t follow the rules, your pet could be quarantined or even sent back. This guide explains everything you need to know on how to travel with pets, including health requirements, pet laws, grooming, and what to expect once you arrive. For more info, it's wise to consult with a trusted veterinary clinic in Dubai.
Understanding Dubai’s Laws and Regulations
Dubai does not allow animals to enter the country without the right documents. You need to apply for an import permit from the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. It must be approved before your pet travels. This permit is valid for 30 days, and you can only use it once. Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784 or 11785 chip. The microchip number must match all documents. Dogs and cats must also be vaccinated against rabies. The rabies shot must be given at least 21 days before you fly, but not more than 12 months before.
Make sure your documents and vaccines are ready before traveling with your pet to Dubai.
You must bring a health certificate from a government-approved vet in your home country. It should state that your pet is healthy and free from infectious diseases. You can read more details about Dubai's pet laws to make sure you follow all the rules.
Specific Requirements for Traveling with Your Pet
If you plan to bring your pet on the plane, check with your airline about pet travel rules. Emirates Airlines, for example, allows pets in cargo on most international flights but not in the cabin.
When you travel with pets in Emirates, they need to undergo checkups. They may be held at the Dubai Animal Reception Center for a few hours. Quarantine may be required if something is wrong with the documents or if the pet seems sick. Quarantine lasts about 21 days, but can be longer depending on the issue.
Preparing Your Pet for Traveling to Dubai
Before your trip, take your pet to a licensed vet for a full checkup. This is important for your pet’s safety and comfort. A vet can also help you gather the needed documents and update vaccinations. If you are already in the city, you can visit a trusted veterinary clinic in Dubai.
Vaccinations and Medical Requirements
Your pet must have a rabies vaccine and, depending on your country, may also need a rabies titer test. Other recommended vaccines for dogs include distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis. Cats should be vaccinated against feline panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus.


Knowing how to travel with pets includes giving them the right vaccines and treatments before flying.
Talk to your vet about treatments for ticks, fleas, and worms. These are often required before entering Dubai. Quarantine is not always required, but it depends on your country’s status and your pet’s health records. If the documents are incomplete or the pet seems unwell, it may be placed in quarantine.
Pet Grooming and Care in Dubai
Pets should be clean before they travel. Airlines can refuse pets that are dirty or show signs of illness. Grooming your pet helps keep them healthy and lowers stress during travel. So make sure to trim their nails and clean their fur. You can find many pet grooming Dubai places that offer premier service. Services include washing, brushing, nail clipping, and ear cleaning. Grooming helps pets stay healthy, especially in hot weather. Some grooming centers also check for ticks or skin problems.
What to Do When You Arrive in Dubai
Some hotels and rental apartments in Dubai allow pets. Look for places that welcome animals and offer services like dog-walking or pet-sitting. Contact the property before you book to make sure pets are allowed.
It’s a good idea to register with a veterinary clinic in Dubai once you arrive. Having a vet nearby is important in case your pet gets sick or injured. You may also need help with annual checkups or getting pet supplies.
Ongoing Pet Health Care in Dubai
Dubai has a very hot climate, especially from May to September. Pets can suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburn. Walk your pet early in the morning or late in the evening. Always provide fresh water and keep your pet indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
Visit a vet if your pet stops eating, vomits, limps, or shows signs of pain, as these may be symptoms of illness or injury. Learn when you should take your dog to the vet so you can act quickly if needed.
Pets can suffer from heatstroke in Dubai’s summer. This can be dangerous and even deadly. Symptoms include fast breathing, drooling, or collapse. Keep your pet cool and never leave them in a car, even for a few minutes. Further, Dubai has many insects that can harm pets. Ticks, fleas, and sandflies can spread disease. Protect your pet with regular treatments. Talk to your vet about what is needed to prevent common pet illnesses.
Tips for Traveling With Your Pet to Dubai
Choosing the right airline is important. Look for one that offers good care for animals. Emirates has pet travel services in cargo with climate control. Always ask about their rules before booking.
Before the flight, help your pet get used to its crate. To reduce stress, practice short periods of time inside the crate. Make sure the crate meets airline size and safety rules.
Pet travel checklist:
Food and water
Any medications your pet needs
Toys or a blanket from home
Health certificate and vaccination records
A secure travel crate
Waste bags and cleaning supplies


To travel with pets in Emirates, they need to be clean and healthy.
How to Travel with Pets to Dubai Responsibly
Traveling with your pet to Dubai is possible with good planning. Start by reading up on Dubai’s pet laws, and make sure your pet is healthy and vaccinated. Visit a vet before and after your trip. Use services like pet grooming in Dubai to help your pet stay clean and comfortable. Keep them safe from heat and parasites by following vet advice and using treatments. If you are unsure what to do next, talk to a veterinary clinic in Dubai. They can help you prepare and support your pet once you arrive.