How to Relocate Your Pet to the UAE

Relocating to the UAE with your pet requires more than just booking a flight—it involves strict compliance with veterinary and biosecurity regulations designed to protect public health and ensure animal welfare.

In the UAE, pet imports are regulated by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), which oversees permits, veterinary documentation, and inspection procedures.

If you’re planning to move with your cat or dog, here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

📌 Step 1: Obtain an Import Permit

Before travel, you must apply for a pet import permit via MOCCAE.

Key points:

• Must be secured before shipping
• Valid for 90 days
• Expired permits = entry refusal

🔍 Step 2: Microchip Identification

All pets must have an ISO-compatible microchip:

• Acts as official identification
• Must match all veterinary documents

💉 Step 3: Vaccination Requirements

Vaccination records must include:

• Microchip number
• Animal details
• Vaccine details (name, batch, dates)

For Dogs:

• Rabies
• Canine Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Infectious Hepatitis
• Leptospirosis

For Cats:

• Rabies
• Feline Panleukopenia
• Feline Rhinotracheitis
• Feline Calicivirus

🧪 Step 4: Rabies Antibody Test (If Required)

For pets from high-risk countries:

• Must undergo RNATT test
• Minimum antibody level: 0.5 IU/ml
• Valid for 365 days

🩺 Step 5: Veterinary Health Certificate

Issued by an official authority in the country of export, confirming:

• Pet is fit for travel
• Vaccinations are valid
• Microchip matches records
• Parasite treatments done within 14 days

✈️ Step 6: Pet Transport Requirements

Pets must travel in compliance with IATA live animal regulations:

• Approved travel crates
• Proper ventilation & labeling
• Safe handling during transit

🛬 Step 7: Arrival & Inspection in the UAE

Upon arrival, authorities will verify:

• Import permit
• Health certificate
• Vaccination records
• Microchip

Failure to comply may result in:

• Rejection and return at owner’s expense
• Confiscation of the pet

⚠️ Breed Restrictions

The UAE restricts certain dog breeds, including:

• American Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Dogo Argentino
• Japanese Tosa
• Cane Corso
• Boerboel
• Presa Canario
• Bullmastiff

Exceptions may apply for service or medical support animals with prior approval.

Relocating your pet to the UAE requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and strict compliance with regulations.

By following MOCCAE guidelines and preparing in advance, you can ensure a smooth, safe, and stress-free journey for your pet.

If you need support with pet relocation, documentation, or UAE entry requirements, our team is here to help. 📩 Get in touch with us today.

📞 +971 52 979 8169 | 📧 hello@bizzmosis.com