Free guide
Moving with pets
Dogs and cats can come from the UK without quarantine, if the paperwork is right. Start about two months ahead. Pick your pet.
Which pet?
5 situationsThe key facts
QuarantineNoneFrom the UK
PermitAED 200Per pet, max 2 a year
Titre testNot neededUK is on the exempt list
Flies asCargoNot in the cabin
Your countdown
Timings to check with your vet- 8+ weeksMicrochip (ISO standard), then rabies vaccine. It must be given more than 21 days before travel
- 6 weeksBook the flight or a pet relocation company; buy an approved crate
- 4 weeksApply for the UAE import permit (AED 200 per pet)
- 2 weeksOther vaccinations up to date; worm and flea treatment within 14 days of arrival
- Days beforeOfficial Vet signs the UK export health certificate (EHC 3926)
- ArrivalCollect from the cargo terminal; register with the municipality
Bringing a dog
- Check the breed first: pit bull types, American Staffordshire and Staffordshire bull terriers, American Bullies, Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Presa Canario and their crosses are banned
- Some sources also list Rottweilers, Dobermans and Boxers. Confirm with the ministry (MOCCAE, 800 3050)
- Vaccines: distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis and leptospirosis, plus rabies
- In Dubai, dogs must be on a lead in public and are generally not allowed in public parks
- Walk early or late in summer: pavements get dangerously hot
Sources: Petraveller: UAE banned breeds; Property Finder: Dubai pet rules.
What it costs
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| UAE import permit | AED 200 per pet |
| Flight from the UK | About £500–1,000 for a dog, £500–800 for a cat |
| Vet checks and certificate | Extra; ask your vet |
| Relocation company | Often much more, but they handle everything |
| Dubai registration | About AED 60 including microchip record |
Flight costs are estimates from a UK pet shipper.
Sources: Abu Dhabi: living with pets; PetAirUK: pets to Dubai; Property Finder: Dubai pet rules.
Living with pets in Dubai
- Get the landlord’s written permission before signing
- Dogs on a lead in public; some breeds must be muzzled
- Most public parks and the Metro don’t allow dogs
- Several communities have dog parks; check the latest list locally
Before you commit: the regional situation. Conflict involving Iran has disrupted flights across the Gulf in 2026. The FCDO does not advise against travel to the UAE but asks people to be ready for disruption. Read the FCDO travel advice (last updated 24 July 2026).
Questions people ask
Sources: GOV.UK: export cats and dogs to the UAE (EHC 3926); APHA: notes for guidance 3926.
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