Importing Pets to the UAE | ExpatWoman.com
 

Importing Pets to the UAE

If you're planning on importing a pet from overseas to your new home in the UAE, make sure you have all the correct information.

Posted on

23 July 2013

Last updated on 7 June 2017
Importing Pets to the UAE

Firstly check that they will be allowed where your accommodation is being provided . Not all places allow pets and the last thing you want is to arrive with Rover and not be allowed to keep him.

 

Secondly be aware that UAE is not very pet friendly in as far as the extreme heat in summer makes exercising your pet uncomfortable for you and the pet so consider the type of pet you are wanting to bring. For example a cat or small dog that is used to an apartment should fit in ok whilst a large dog or a cat that loves the outdoors might really struggle. There is a severe shortage of places that dogs are allowed to run off the lead and in most cases dogs are not allowed in public places at all. Another point is there are so many homeless pets looking for homes in Dubai so if you don’t already have a pet please consider this option and give an homeless pet a chance.

All said sometimes if you can provide the right living conditions for your pet having them with you certainly can make Dubai more of a home.Remember also that when you travel home for your holidays somebody will need to care for your pet and kennels and catteries do not come cheap.


Getting them here

Please use a professional Pet Importer and save yourself any heart ache from incorrect paperwork.

These people will know the laws for your country and Dubai and provide a door to door service or some will cover most aspects of the move and advise you how to do the rest.

For starters you will definitely require the following:

  • Good Health Certificate
  • Vaccination Certificate
  • All pets must be micro chipped and the microchip number must appear on all their documentation


Friendly advice

Many people love their pets and cannot leave them at home. They are a huge responsibility though if you are at work or living in an apartment.  The Arabic culture does not really tolerate pets in the same way as westerners; they do not understand why anyone could love an animal creates so much work and requires regular care Occasionally poison is laid erratically to try and prevent any wild dogs/cats running around so be careful where you walk.   This does not happen in any residential area, more on the outskirts but be aware that it can. 

Keep dogs on leads unless you are sure you know there is no one around and dogs cannot be walked on the beach although there are many other areas you can ramble around.  There are many good vets who will help you care for your pet and also arrange for transporting them to and from the UAE. 

Dogs and cats which leave the house should be regularly vaccinated and if you have a new pup or dog it is worthwhile getting your new pet chipped.  All the vets used by expatriates can carry out these duties.

Once your pet is here there are a great selection of vets to look after your pet and remember to contact one of  these  to get your pets municipatality tag once it has arrived.

PLEASE if you intend bringing your pet remember when you go home don't add to the unwanted animals here already and plan in advance to take your own pet  back home with you.