Pet Owner's Guide to

Living in United Arab Emirates 2025

For more detailed information on how to bring your beloved pets to the United Arab Emirates, please refer to our comprehensive UAE Pet Travel Guide. 

UAE Pet Travel Guide

Life in the UAE with Pets

The UAE is home to a growing number of high-quality veterinary clinics and hospitals, many of which cater specifically to expats and speak English fluently.

Choosing a Veterinarian in the UAE

  • The Veterinary Hospital (Dubai) – One of the oldest and most trusted clinics in the region, with emergency services and specialists.
  • Blue Oasis Veterinary Clinic (Dubai) – A modern, full-service clinic with boarding and grooming options.
  • Canadian Veterinary Clinic (Abu Dhabi) – Offers general medicine, surgery, diagnostics, and pet travel services.
  • German Veterinary Clinic (Abu Dhabi) – Highly rated by expat families for their caring staff and broad range of services.

👉 Tip: It’s common for clinics to offer grooming and pet boarding services alongside medical care. Be sure to register with a local vet soon after arrival to keep vaccination schedules current.

🏥 Emergency Services

While not all clinics offer 24/7 care, there are a few emergency options:

  • The Veterinary Hospital – Dubai: +971 4 340 8601
  • Modern Veterinary Clinic – Dubai: +971 4 388 3990

Have your clinic’s emergency line saved in your phone, as the UAE does not have a universal animal emergency hotline.

Pet-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

The café culture is booming in the UAE, and many venues are welcoming well-behaved, leashed dogs—especially in outdoor seating areas.

Pet-Friendly Spots to Try:

  • Arrows and Sparrows (Dubai) – A dog-friendly café with great brunch options and water bowls at the ready.
  • Palm West Beach (Dubai) – Several restaurants allow dogs on the beach promenade, including Jones the Grocer and Koko Bay.
  • 1762 JLT (Dubai) – Welcomes dogs on the terrace with a chilled, shady vibe.
  • Cafe Mandarina (Abu Dhabi) – Located on a horse ranch, this outdoor café is very pet-friendly and relaxing.

Dog Parks and Green Spaces

Due to the hot climate and cultural norms, outdoor pet areas are more limited than in some Western countries, but the UAE is becoming increasingly pet-friendly, especially in Dubai.

Dog-Friendly Spaces in Dubai:

  • The Greens Dog Park – A shaded, gated space great for off-leash play.
  • Sustainable City Dog Park – Offers agility equipment and open space.
  • My Second Home – Not just a boarding facility—it includes a private dog park and canine social club.
  • Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) – Leashed dogs are welcome in designated park zones.

Note: Dogs are not permitted on public beaches, but some resorts host dog beach days and there are growing options for private dog beaches and swimming pools.

Pet Supply Stores

You’ll find most international pet supply brands available in the UAE, including Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Orijen.

Popular Pet Retailers:

  • Pet’s Delight – One of the largest chains, with locations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
  • The Pet Shop – Offers food, accessories, and even a dog swimming pool and daycare facility in Dubai Investment Park.
  • Petzania – Online and in-store shopping for toys, carriers, beds, and health products.

👉 Tip: Stock up on any specific medications or prescription foods, especially for pets with allergies, as availability may vary between emirates.

Climate and Comfort Tips

  • Summer Heat: Temperatures can soar above 110°F (43°C) during summer. Walk your dog only during early morning or late evening hours.
  • Hydration: Always carry a portable water bowl when out with your pet.
  • Booties or Paw Wax: Sidewalks can get dangerously hot—protect those paws!

Final Thoughts

The UAE may not have the same public dog parks or hiking trails you’re used to, but it’s rapidly evolving into a pet-friendly society—especially in larger expat communities. With a little preparation, you and your pet can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and enriching life in your new desert home.

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