Bringing your pet to the UAE: the complete import guide

Relocating to the UAE is exciting, and there’s no reason to leave a pet behind. But importing a dog or cat is a process with strict paperwork and timing, and small mistakes cause big delays at the airport. Here’s a clear, vet’s-eye overview of what’s involved so you can plan with confidence.

What you’ll need

Importing a pet is really about assembling the right documents in the right order. The essentials are:

• An ISO 15-digit microchip — fitted before the rabies vaccination, so records line up.
• An up-to-date rabies vaccination — given after the microchip.
• An import permit from MOCCAE — usually arranged through Canadian Vet Clinic’s relocation team, your origin vet, or another agent.
• A government health certificate — issued by the official authority in your origin country, close to travel.
• Possibly a rabies titer test — depending on which country you’re travelling from.
• An approved airline and, for most airlines, an IATA-compliant crate. Book early, as pet spots are limited. Etihad is the exception: it allows small pets under 8kg in the cabin, but only on flights via Abu Dhabi.

Why the microchip comes first

Order matters. The microchip must be in place before the rabies vaccination, because every certificate ties back to that chip number. If the vaccine was given first, some authorities require it to be repeated — an avoidable delay. If you’re planning a move, get the chip sorted early.

The import permit and timing

The import permit is issued by MOCCAE and is valid for 30 days from issuance, set close to your travel dates, so it’s timed to your flight rather than done far in advance. The single biggest timing factor is the rabies titer test: some countries require it, and it carries a waiting period. As a rule of thumb, start the process at least a month before you move. Give yourself more time if you’re coming from a higher-risk country or your pet needs a rabies titer test, since that comes with its own waiting period.

A note on breed rules

Some breeds are restricted or banned from entry into the UAE. If you have a breed that’s sometimes restricted, check the current rules before you book flights — it’s far easier to confirm early than to be turned back.

Arriving in the UAE

With paperwork in order, pets generally clear at the airport on arrival, and home quarantine is usually not required for compliant pets. The smoother your documents, the smoother the arrival — which is exactly why getting the details right beforehand is worth it.

How we help

Our relocation team handles the whole process — microchipping, vaccinations, titer tests, MOCCAE documentation and airline coordination — for pets coming to the UAE from all over the world. You tell us where you’re moving from; we map out every step and deadline.