What Pet Travel Documents Are Needed?

Pets traveling to the United Arab Emirates require a UAE import permit obtained in advance and a USDA-endorsed health certificate (APHIS Form 7001 or a country-specific health certificate). The health certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 7 days of departure and endorsed by a regional USDA office. Documentation typically includes vaccination records, a valid rabies certificate, microchip details, the owner’s passport copy, and flight information.

What Are the Pet Restrictions?

Pets entering the UAE must meet import and vaccination requirements and typically travel as manifest cargo in an IATA-compliant crate. Upon arrival, documents are reviewed by airport officials and pets may be examined. If there are documentation issues or signs of illness, authorities may detain or quarantine the pet for further assessment.

Do I Need a Microchip for My Pet to Travel?

Yes. All pets entering the UAE must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. If a pet’s microchip is not ISO-compatible, the owner must bring a compatible microchip scanner or have a compliant chip inserted before travel.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements?

There is no quarantine for pets traveling from the United States to the UAE as long as all import requirements are met. Pets may be examined upon arrival, and authorities may detain or quarantine a pet if documentation is incorrect or if there are signs of illness.

Are There Any Area Specific Pet Requirements?

Yes. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel and no more than 12 months prior unless a 3-year vaccine is noted and accepted. Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the rabies vaccine. Dogs also require core vaccines including Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Leptospirosis, and cats require core vaccines including FVRCP. The UAE does not currently require a rabies titer test for pets arriving from the U.S. The UAE import permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How to Ship a Pet to United Arab Emirates?

Pets traveling to the United Arab Emirates must have a UAE import permit obtained in advance, along with a USDA-endorsed health certificate completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 7 days of departure. Required documentation includes the pet’s vaccination records, valid rabies certificate, microchip details, owner’s passport copy, and flight information.

What Are the Pet Restrictions for ?

Pets entering the UAE must meet all import and vaccination requirements and typically travel as manifest cargo. An IATA-compliant travel crate is required. While the UAE does not list breed bans in this guide, pets may be examined on arrival and may be detained or quarantined if documentation is incorrect or if there are signs of illness.

Do I Need a Microchip for My Pet to Travel to United Arab Emirates?

Yes. All pets entering the UAE must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. If your pet’s existing microchip is not ISO-compatible, you must bring your own microchip scanner or have a compliant chip implanted before travel.

What Are the Quarantine Requirements for a Pet Traveling to United Arab Emirates?

There is no quarantine for pets traveling from the United States to the UAE as long as all import requirements are met. Pets may be examined upon arrival, and authorities may detain or quarantine a pet if there are documentation issues or signs of illness.

Are There Any Area Specific Pet Requirements in United Arab Emirates?

Yes. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days before travel and no more than 12 months prior, unless a 3-year vaccine is accepted. Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the rabies vaccine. Dogs must also receive core vaccines including Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Leptospirosis, while cats must receive FVRCP vaccines. The UAE does not currently require a rabies titer test for pets arriving from the U.S. An import permit valid for 30 days is mandatory prior to travel.

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2026 Pet Travel Guide to United Arab Emirates
Microchip
Vaccinations
Import Permit
USDA Health Certificate
- Quarantine
- Travel Crates and Flights
Arrival Process
How Starwood Can Help

2026 Pet Travel Guide to United Arab Emirates

Relocating to the UAE with your furry family member? With its gleaming cities, pet-friendly communities, and growing interest in companion animals, the United Arab Emirates offers a warm welcome—but also a very specific set of import requirements. Whether you're headed to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or beyond, here's what you need to know to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey for your pet.

Microchip

All pets entering the UAE must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. If your pet’s current microchip is not ISO-compatible, you may either bring your own microchip scanner or have your vet insert a compliant chip before travel.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a crucial part of the import process for both dogs and cats. The UAE requires:

For Dogs:

Rabies vaccination – Administered at least 21 days before travel and no more than 12 months prior, unless a 3-year vaccine is noted and accepted. Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the rabies vaccine.
Core vaccines – Including Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, and Leptospirosis, typically given as a DHPP or DHLPP combo shot.

For Cats:

Rabies vaccination – Same timeline as dogs.
Core vaccines – Including Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).

Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are recorded on a valid certificate and match the microchip ID number.

Rabies Titer Test

While many countries in the region require a rabies titer (RNATT), the UAE does not currently require a rabies titer test for pets arriving from the U.S.—but always check for the most up-to-date rules before travel.

Import Permit

All pets must have a UAE import permit, which must be obtained in advance and is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. This document is usually obtained by your pet relocation specialist or a local sponsor and is mandatory for entry.

You’ll need to provide:

Copy of the pet’s vaccination record
Valid rabies certificate
Microchip details
Owner’s passport copy
Flight information

USDA Health Certificate

All pets must travel with a USDA-endorsed health certificate, known as APHIS Form 7001 or the country-specific health certificate. Your USDA-accredited veterinarian must complete the form within 7 days of departure, confirming your pet is healthy and fit to travel.

This document must be:

Signed and dated by your vet
Endorsed by your regional USDA office

We strongly recommend starting this process early to accommodate vet appointments and USDA processing.

Quarantine

Good news—there is no quarantine for pets traveling from the U.S. to the UAE as long as all requirements are met. However, pets may be examined upon arrival. If there are any issues with documentation or signs of illness, authorities may detain or quarantine your pet for further assessment.

Travel Crates and Flights

Pets flying to the UAE typically travel as manifest cargo, and your pet must be transported in an IATA-compliant crate sized for comfort and safety. Emirates and Etihad are commonly used carriers, both of which have excellent pet cargo facilities.

Ensure your crate is:

Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down
Properly ventilated
Secure and labeled with feeding instructions and identification

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in the UAE, your pet’s documents will be reviewed by airport officials. A customs clearance fee and inspection fee may apply, and your pet must be collected promptly. If using a relocation service, they will manage this process and arrange safe delivery to your home.

How Starwood Can Help

At Starwood Pet Travel, we’ve helped countless families move their pets to the UAE with care, compassion, and precision. If you're planning your move, we're here to help every step of the way.

2026 United Arab Emirates Country Guide

Congratulations—you’ve arrived in the UAE with your furry family member! While the relocation process may have felt like a marathon of paperwork, crate training, and embassy requirements, now comes the rewarding part: settling into your new home and helping your pet adjust to life in the Emirates.

This guide covers what pet parents need to know once they land, including veterinary care, pet supply stores, local laws, and pet-friendly places to explore.

UAE Country Guide

Moving from the United Arab Emirates

We have a team of experts ready to help with every aspect of your pet’s move from the UAE. Our services from the UAE include:

Door to door pet transport, both international and domestic
Assistance with health certificates, import certificates, and other travel documents needed for animal transport
USDA endorsement and consular legalization (when needed) of all relevant documents where required
Airline approved flight kennels provided with personalized labels, identification and emergency notification instructions
Customs clearance and delivery to your home
Local pet taxi service to and from the airport, your home, veterinarian, kennel, or groomer – available in your area
Travel consultation and flight reservations

We will inform you of your pet's full itinerary before the trip and we will update you throughout your pet's journey.

Incoming Pet? We're Ready for Touchdown!

Whether you’re flying your pet to the United States after a brief stay or a whole lifetime in another country, there are a number of hoops to jump through. Getting all of the details right can be confusing and time-consuming, and improper planning or documentation could delay your pet’s entry into the country. Let us handle all the details for you!

Usa Import Faq

What’s the process?

After submitting your quote request and completing the invoice payment, a dedicated booking specialist will be assigned to assist you. They will take care of all the necessary arrangements for your pet's import, including collecting information and documents from you. On the day of arrival, they will keep you updated on the clearance process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

It's important to note that this quote covers import and customs clearance specifically for the United States. It is your responsibility to handle the export process from your country of origin. You have the option to work directly with an airline or engage a local pet shipper.

Additionally, if you are traveling from a high-risk rabies country to the United States, it is your responsibility to obtain the CDC import permit.

Starting Cost for Moving Your Pet to the United Arab Emirates

Number of Pets	Economy	Business	Premium
1	$4,195	$4,995	$7,195
2	$5,895	$6,995	$9,995
3	$7,795	$9,995	$12,995
4	$9,595	$11,395	$16,095
5	$11,395	$13,395	$18,495

For more information about pet relocation packages and pricing, click here.

Prices shown are estimates and may vary depending on route, airline, kennel size, and other considerations. These figures are intended to provide general, directional pricing guidance.

Your pet’s safe trip

to or from the United Arab Emirates starts here