Pet relocation to Abu Dhabi

Those furry paws and floppy ears can be hard to resist — but anyone thinking of bringing their pet to Abu Dhabi, either permanently or temporarily, must give the process some serious thought. To make it easy for you, Bayut brings you a complete guide to moving your animal to the capital city. In this post, we try to answer some of the main questions you may have if you plan to taking pets to Abu Dhabi.  This includes the costs associated with the process, required documents, UAE pet import laws and the feasibility of pet relocation services. 

UAE Import laws for pet relocation to Abu Dhabi

Before we answer how to bring your pet to Abu Dhabi, it’s important to acquaint yourself with the pet import laws in the United Arab Emirates. As a pet owner, here is what you must be aware of:

• Pets moving to Abu Dhabi need to have a valid permit 
• Pets must be up to date on all required vaccinations
• Pets must be identifiable with permanent microchips 
• The chip number on the health certificate must match with the chip number on the microchip
• Pets are to be shipped in manifested cargo as specified by IATA regulations
• Pets must be transported in clean boxes or cages
• A traveller is allowed to bring a maximum of two pets to the UAE, with each pet having its own permit
• The age of the animal imported at initial vaccination must not be less than 12 weeks and not exceed 27 weeks if it is imported from high-risk countries
• Kittens and puppies from rabies-controlled countries under the age of 15 weeks cannot enter the UAE. This also applies to unvaccinated pets under 27 weeks from countries with a high number of cases for rabies

A list of countries considered low-risk and high-risk for rabies can be found on the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) website.

Where do I get a pet permit?

Import permits for bringing pets to Abu Dhabi can be acquired by registering and applying for them via the MOCCAE website. The permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance and owners are not allowed to import animals with an expired permit. 

What documents are needed to bring your pet to Abu Dhabi?

While there are many pet relocation services in Abu Dhabi that provide the service, it is still advisable to keep yourself informed about the documents required upon arrival at the port of entry. In addition to updated pet microchips, this includes the vaccine card or pet passport and necessary permit. These include:

• Original vaccination card or animal passport: Before you bring your pet to Abu Dhabi, make sure that you have the valid associated documents which include the animal’s microchip number, date of birth and other vaccination records
• Valid health certificate from the exporting country: This document assures authorities that your pet is healthy 
• Original certificate for RSNT: In addition to the documents mentioned, all pets entering Abu Dhabi must be free of rabies with proof in the form of a certificate for the Rabies Serum Neutralization Test (RSNT). However, if you are importing a pet from a country that isn’t on the list, you will have to have the test conducted 90 days before you fly. 

What vaccinations does my pet need before coming to Abu Dhabi?

Animals, like pet cats and dogs, need to have proof of certain vaccinations before they are allowed in the capital. Here is an overview of the requirements:

• Vaccinations for dogs: Dogs must be vaccinated for the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), Canine Parvo Virus, Infectious Canine Hepatitis and Leptospirosis
• Vaccinations for cats: Cats must be vaccinated for Feline Pan Leukopenia, Feline Rhinotracheitis and Feline Calicivirus 

Other treatments which are required t be taken 10 days pre-shipping includes those for anti-external parasites and de-worming. Apart from this, both types of animals must be vaccinated against rabies according to the instructions of the vaccine manufacturer. The initial dosage must not be applied before three months of the animal’s age and 21 days must have passed before the pet arrives in the country. 

What are the service charges to bring my pet to Abu Dhabi?

Those planning on moving pets to Abu Dhabi are required to bear the costs associated with the process. How much does pet relocation cost? Depending on whether you wish to bring your pet cat or dog to the capital, here is what you can expect to pay:

• Import permit fees for one pet (dog or cat): AED 500
• Inspection fee for each dog on entry: AED 1000
• Inspection fee for each cat upon entry: AED 500 
• Fine for non-compliance of import requirements: AED 500 for each animal

Payment can be in Master card, Visa card or E-Dirham. Keep in mind, your pet might be confiscated or rejected on your expense if the import requirements aren’t met. 

Which dog breeds can’t I bring to the UAE?

If your pet happens to be a dog, know that certain breeds are not allowed in the UAE. These include all kinds of Pit Bull, Brazilian fighting dogs, Argentinian fighting dogs, Japanese Tosa, Wolf Dog hybrids and American Staffordshire terriers. 

Authorities in the UAE may also disallow mixed breeds if your pet is a mix of prohibited breeds in the UAE. We recommend being on the safer side and contacting the MOCCAE for accurate advice on your dog’s chances. 

• Contact: +971-2-444-4747
• Address: Old airport road, opposite Abu Dhabi Retirement Pensions and Benefits Fund – Abu Dhabi

Can I rely on pet relocation services Abu Dhabi?

The UAE government has strict rules in place to ensure that all pets are properly vaccinated and pet owners are compliant of legalities regarding importing pets to the UAE. However, the process can be confusing if you have never had to bring your pet to Abu Dhabi before. In a case like this, relying on pet relocation services may be the best option as they are familiar with the ins and outs of the process. Some veterinary services in Abu Dhabi also offer such services. The cost will be higher compared to doing it yourself but the additional expense can be a small price to pay to ensure that your animal receives the best care during the move. 

Once you bring your furry friend to the capital, the sky’s the limit to the fun in store. From beaches to parks and restaurants, there are several pet-friendly places in Abu Dhabi that you can check out with your pet. Similarly, there are some amazing dog parks in Dubai.

In case you have to leave your animal behind in the city, you can always rely on pet hotels in Abu Dhabi to house them until you get back. And if you want to pamper your pooch or feline, a visit to pet shops in Abu Dhabi takes care of that. That wraps up our overview of pet relocation to Abu Dhabi. For more information on bringing pets to the UAE, stay tuned to MyBayut.