Pet Passport in the UAE: Step-by-Step Application Process

Traveling with pets can be overwhelming. From navigating airline restrictions to handling customs and veterinary requirements, many pet owners struggle with last-minute surprises, delays, or even denied entry for their pets.

The lack of clear, standardized information leads to confusion. Missing a single document, failing to meet vaccination timelines, or misunderstanding UAE regulations can result in costly rescheduling, extended quarantines, or the heartbreak of leaving your pet behind.

The Pet Passport Dubai system streamlines every step—ensuring your pet meets all necessary requirements, saving you from the overwhelming red tape that often comes with international pet travel. With expert guidance, you’ll have everything in place for a smooth, worry-free journey. Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to effortless pet travel!

Ready to simplify your pet’s journey? Let’s get started!

What is a Pet Passport?

In Dubai, a pet passport is basically your pet’s vaccination book containing essential shots like rabies. It includes details of vaccinations, microchip information, and a valid government-endorsed health certificate. This document is required for pet travel, ensuring compliance with UAE and international regulations. Pet owners must keep it updated for smooth entry and exit procedures.

While the term “pet passport” is commonly used, it’s important to note that the UAE does not issue an official animal passport akin to the European Union’s Pet Passport. Instead, the required documentation includes:

• Microchip Details
• Vaccination Records
• Rabies Titer Test Results
• Health Certificate
• Import/Export Permits

How to Get a Dog or Cat Pet Passport in UAE?

To get a pet passport in the UAE, ensure your pet is microchipped and has up-to-date vaccinations. Visit a government-approved veterinarian for a health certificate. Submit the certificate along with your pet’s vaccination records to the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) for approval. Once processed, your pet will be ready for travel.

What Does a Pet Passport UAE Include?

The dog and cat passport UAE includes the following:

1. Microchipping

Microchipping is a mandatory requirement for UAE pet passports, ensuring each pet has a unique identification number. The microchip, implanted under the pet’s skin, is registered with the owner’s details, aiding in reuniting lost pets with their families. It complies with international standards, making travel and identification seamless.  

Authorities and veterinary clinics can scan the chip to verify ownership and vaccination records. This system prevents pet theft and ensures responsible pet ownership within the UAE. All pets must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit non-encrypted microchip.

2. Vaccinations

The documentation of vaccination records should be maintained up-to-date as they are crucial for travel.

	Cats	Dogs
Rabies Vaccination	Mandatory for all pets traveling internationally. The vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before travel and should be valid at the time of departure. It should be done after the pet is done with the microchip.
Other Vaccinations	• Feline Panleukopenia • Feline Rhinotracheitis • Feline Calicivirus.	• Canine Distemper Virus • Canine Parvovirus • Infectious Canine Hepatitis • Leptospirosis • Bordetella vaccine for boarding facilities

3. Rabies Titer Test (If Required)

Depending on your country of departure or transit, certain additional blood tests (such as rabies titer tests) or quarantine measures might be required.

Purpose	Measures the level of rabies antibodies in your pet’s blood, ensuring the effectiveness of the rabies vaccination.
When Required	Some countries mandate a rabies titer test, especially if the UAE is classified as a high-risk country for rabies by the destination country.
Procedure	Conducted more than 30 days after the rabies vaccination. Blood samples must be processed at approved laboratories.
Titer Test Exemption Countries for Pet Travel	• Belgium • Italy • Sweden • New Zealand • Japan • Bahrain • Estonia • Czech Republic • Denmark • Australia • Austria • Andorra • Aruba • Barbados • Comoros • Cyprus • Fiji • Finland • French Polynesia • Falkland Islands • Germany • Hong Kong • Iceland • Ireland • Jamaica • Kazakhstan • Kuwait • Liechtenstein • Malaysia • Malta • Mauritius • New Caledonia • Portugal • Qatar • San Marino • Seychelles • Singapore • Switzerland • United Kingdom • Vanuatu
Note: Pets from high-rabies countries without a titer test may face quarantine upon arrival in UAE.

4. Health Certificate

A government-endorsed health certificate from the country of origin is mandatory. It must confirm that your pet is free from infectious or contagious diseases and is fit for travel.

This certificate must be dated and stamped by the competent veterinary authority in the exporting country, typically within 10 days of travel.

Issuance	Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian authorized by the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).
Validity	Typically valid for 10 days from the date of issuance.
Details Included	Confirms the pet’s health status, microchip number, and vaccination history.

5. Import/Export Permits

• Import Permits: If you are bringing a pet into Dubai, you will need an import permit issued by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Valid for 30 days from the date of issuance. Only two pets (either two cats, two dogs, or one cat and one dog) are allowed per individual annually. This permit typically requires documentation such as:
  • A valid health certificate (from a government-approved veterinarian in the exporting country).
  • Up-to-date vaccination records.
  • Details of the microchip.
• Export Permit: Depending on the destination country’s regulations, an export permit may be necessary. It’s essential to consult the specific requirements of the destination country well in advance. All vaccinations must be up to date before travel. They should be given at least two weeks before the export date to ensure full effectiveness.

6. Parasite Treatments

Pets must be treated for internal and external parasites before travel to meet health regulations. All treatments should be properly documented in the pet’s health certificate or vaccination booklet.

Pets must also receive treatments for internal and external parasites. These treatments should be administered within 14 days before departure. A veterinary check is mandatory within 10 days of travel. It is recommended to schedule parasite treatments during this visit for convenience and compliance

Eligibility Criteria for Cat and Dog Passport

Age	The pet must be at least 15 weeks old.
Common Eligible Pets	Cats and dogs are the most common pets eligible for passports in the UAE.
Breed Restrictions	Specific breed restrictions apply, particularly for dogs. • American Bully • American Pit Bull Terrier • Pit Bull Terrier • Japanese Tosa (TosaInu; Tosa Fighting Dog) • Argentinian Fighting Dog • Brazilian Fighting Dog • Staffordshire Bull Terrier • Canary Fighting Dog • American Staffordshire Terrier

How to Safely Get Import Permit for Cats and Dogs?

To safely get an import permit for cats and dogs you need to:

1. Complete and Endorse APHIS Form 7001

If you are traveling from the United States, you must obtain APHIS Form 7001, an essential international health certificate available at your veterinarian’s office. This form must be issued no later than 10 days before departure and must be endorsed by the USDA before travel.  

2. Submit Documents for USDA Endorsement

To receive USDA endorsement, submit the following documents to your local USDA office:  

• Rabies Vaccination Certificate
• General Vaccine Certificate
• APHIS Form 7001 (International Health Certificate)

3. Prepare Documents for Customs Clearance

Before your pet arrives in the UAE, ensure you have:  

• A photocopy of the pet owner’s passport
• A signed Customs Clearance Form (provided by your relocation specialist)  

4. Understanding UAE Breed Restrictions

The UAE has strict breed restrictions, prohibiting the entry of certain dog breeds, including:  

• Pit Bulls  
• American Staffordshire Terriers  
• Rottweilers  

Always check with the UAE embassy or consulate to confirm whether your pet’s breed is permitted.  

5. Special Requirements for Birds and Other Animals 

Bringing birds or exotic pets into the UAE involves additional requirements. This includes:  

• A veterinary-issued health certificate
• A CITES permit (for certain species)  
• A copy of the pet owner’s passport  

6. Complying with Airline Regulations

Each airline has its own pet travel policies. Common requirements include:  

• Approved pet carrier specifications
• Feeding and hydration instructions for the journey  
• Additional airline-specific travel rules  

Always check with your airline well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. Some pet-friendly airlines in UAE include:

• Emirates Airlines
• Air Arabia
• Etihad Airways
• United Airlines
• Air Canada
• Flydubai

7. Finding Pet-Friendly Housing in the UAE

Not all accommodations in the UAE allow pets. To prevent issues upon arrival, confirm pet policies with hotels, rentals, or serviced apartments before booking.  

How Much Does Pet Passport UAE Cost?

The dog or cat passport price is as follows:

• Import Permit: AED 200 per pet, valid for 90 days. 
• Microchipping: Approximately AED 100 to AED 250. 
• Rabies Vaccination: Around AED 100 to AED 200. 
• Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian, costing between AED 100 to AED 300. 
• Customs Inspection Fees upon Entry: AED 500 for cats and AED 1,000 for dogs.

Tips for Travelers with Pets to Dubai

• Plan Ahead. Some vaccinations and tests require specific waiting periods (e.g., the rabies vaccine can require 21 days post-administration before travel).
• Check your airline’s pet policy and crate requirements, as each airline has specific rules on pet container sizes, weight limits, and health regulations.
• Regulations can change; always confirm the latest requirements through the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and your home country’s authorities before booking travel.
• Pets must enter the UAE as manifested cargo. Ensure you have an IATA-compliant pet carrier and make necessary arrangements with the airline.
• Organize all documents meticulously. It’s advisable to have both physical and digital copies.
• Engage with pet relocation specialists or veterinary clinics, like Pet Pulse, experienced in pet travel to navigate the complexities of international pet relocation.
• Although not labeled a “pet passport” in Dubai, travelers or residents typically store all of the above documents (microchip information, vaccination booklet, health certificate, and permit) together in one file when traveling with pets. This set of documents fulfills the same function that “pet passports” do in other jurisdictions.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a pet passport in Dubai?

The pet passport Dubai process can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on vaccination status and document approvals. The import permit is typically issued within 3–5 working days, but it’s best to plan well in advance.

2. Can I travel with my pet immediately after getting a pet passport?

No, pets must wait at least 21 days after receiving their rabies vaccination before traveling. If a rabies titer test is required, the waiting period can be 90 days or more.

3. What happens if I don’t have the required documents for my pet?

Without the necessary documents, including a valid import permit, health certificate, and vaccination records, your pet may be denied entry, quarantined, or even sent back to the country of origin. Always ensure compliance with UAE regulations before travel.

Take Away

While Dubai does not issue an official “pet passport” as some other regions do, the required documentation (import permit, health certificates, microchip, up-to-date vaccines) together essentially functions as one. Be sure to keep all these documents together and accessible to present at airline check-in and upon arrival in Dubai.

By adhering to the guidelines outlined above and consulting with professionals, you can facilitate a smooth and stress-free travel experience for you and your pet.

Note: Regulations are subject to change. Always verify the current requirements with relevant authorities or consult with a pet relocation expert before making travel arrangements.