Pet Relocation Services to UAE

Microchip

Each pet shall be identified through a microchip. No other form of identification is acceptable. The microchip used should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or ISO standard 11785. The UAE currently accepts AVID 9 and AVID 10 in addition to ISO. 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 at least 21 days old.

Rabies Antibody Titer Test

After the rabies vaccination (at least 21 days later), pets must receive a rabies antibody titer test to ensure that the rabies vaccination has provided adequate rabies antibody levels and must be tested by a government-approved facility. Your vet will send these to the approved lab. Please have your vet call them before sending it to ensure they know the delivery and destination location. The blood test results must be 0.5 IU/ml or above. Your vet must scan your pet’s microchip before the blood draw for the titer test. 

Additional Vaccines

Dogs: Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (DHLPP). Bordetella (also known as the "kennel cough" vaccine) is required for boarding pets and generally recommended for pet safety.

Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP).

These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date for maximum effectiveness.

Parasite treatments (internal and external) are also required within 14 days of departure. An export vet appointment is required within 10 days of departure, so we recommend having the parasite treatment done at this appointment.

Import Permit

Your PetRelocation Specialist will obtain this on your behalf. Please note that the import permit can take from three days to two weeks to obtain and is valid for one month from the date of issue.

APHIS Form 7001

This form should be issued within 10 days of departure, and your vet should have these in stock. This international health certificate must be completed by your vet and sent to the USDA (if arriving from the United States) for the correct endorsement.

USDA Endorsements

The following must be sent to your local USDA for their stamp of approval. Please contact your PetRelocation Specialist to learn more about how to manage this.

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

Additional Details

For us to successfully clear customs, we will need the following documents supplied before the pet’s arrival:

• Copy of the Pet Owner’s Passport
• Signed Customs Clearance Form (your Specialist will provide this)

UAE Breed Restrictions:

• It's important to know that certain dog breeds cannot be imported into the UAE. Breeds like Pit Bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Rottweilers are strictly prohibited. You must check with the UAE embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm your pet's eligibility for import.

Import Requirements for Birds and Other Animals

• If you plan to transport birds or other animals to the UAE, there are additional requirements you need to meet. For instance, if you plan to transport birds, you will need a health certificate from an authorized vet, a CITES permit and a copy of your passport. Ensure that you understand all the requirements before traveling with your pet.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

• When traveling with pets to the UAE, finding pet-friendly accommodations is important. While some hotels in the UAE allow pets, checking with the hotel beforehand is essential to avoid any inconveniences.

Heat Restrictions

The UAE can be incredibly hot, and ensuring your pet can tolerate the heat is important. Avoid traveling during the peak summer months (May to September) when temperatures reach over 40°C (104°F). Some airlines also have heat embargoes during certain months, so check with your airline beforehand.

Pet Transport Companies

When transporting pets to the UAE, working with a reliable and experienced pet transport company is essential. The process can be complex, and it's important to have a specialist who understands the regulations and can ensure a smooth and safe journey for your pet.

With the ongoing COVID-19 reality, additional restrictions and regulations must be considered when traveling with your pet to the UAE. You must check with the embassy or consulate in your home country and airline to confirm the latest requirements.