Importing Dogs and Cats to Saudi Arabia: Guidelines and Procedures

Before beginning the import procedures, ensure the Government Veterinary Authority approves your vet in the country of origin. For example, if a pet departs the United States, the vet must be USDA Accredited.

• Microchip: Each pet must be identified by a microchip that complies with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO Standard 11785. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.

• Rabies Vaccination and Certificate: All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet. The rabies vaccine must be administered at least 30 days before departure but no more than six months prior.

• Additional Vaccines:

  • For Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus (DHLPP), as well as Bordetella.
  • For Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
  • These vaccines should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date.

• Dog Import Restrictions: Only dogs classified as "working dogs" (e.g., watchdogs, seeing-eye dogs, hunting dogs) may enter Saudi Arabia. The purpose of such dogs must be shown in a Veterinary Certificate, and permission must be obtained from an embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia before arrival.

• APHIS Form 7001: A USDA-accredited veterinarian must issue this international health certificate within 10 days of departure. It requires endorsement from the USDA and the Saudi Embassy.

• Customs Letters and Documentation: Pet transport to Saudi Arabia may require several customs letters. Your PetRelocation Specialist can provide more details and assist with this process.

Breed Restrictions and Challenges to Keep in Mind

• Importing pets to Saudi Arabia can be challenging, and it's important to note that the country imposes strict breed restrictions. Small dogs, in particular, may face difficulties entering the country as they may not be classified as "working dogs."
• Before making (or abandoning) your travel plans, we recommend conducting thorough research and consulting with a pet shipping expert to explore your options and understand the feasibility of bringing your pet to Saudi Arabia.

Trust PetRelocation for Your Pet's Move to Saudi Arabia

• You can successfully bring your pets to Saudi Arabia with careful planning and adherence to import requirements. At PetRelocation, we are dedicated to assisting you in managing the complexities of this process.