Relocating to UAE with Your Pets on a Work Visa – Everything You Need to Know

Introduction: Why Relocating with Pets to the UAE Matters

Moving to another country for work is a life-changing decision. For many professionals, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a top destination because of its thriving economy, world-class infrastructure, tax-free income, and career growth opportunities. Every year, thousands of expatriates relocate to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates with their families. But for a growing number of expats, “family” includes not just spouses and children—but also beloved pets.

Relocating with pets to the UAE can be an emotional necessity. Leaving behind a cat, dog, or any companion animal can feel like abandoning part of your household. Fortunately, the UAE government allows pet importation under regulated conditions, ensuring the safety of both animals and residents.

However, the process is not as simple as booking a flight. It requires planning months in advance, gathering documents, fulfilling vaccination requirements, arranging permits, and preparing your pet for the journey. Missing a single step can result in hefty delays, quarantine, or even refusal of entry for your pet.

This guide provides everything you need to know about relocating to the UAE with your pets while on a work visa: from step-by-step procedures and cost breakdowns to FAQs, pros and cons, and practical tips. Whether you’re moving to Dubai for a new job or Abu Dhabi for long-term career growth, this article will prepare you to move with your furry friends stress-free.

Step-by-Step Process: Bringing Your Pets to the UAE on a Work Visa

Relocating pets requires coordination between your UAE residency permit, government regulations, and airline policies. Here’s a detailed process to follow:

Step 1: Secure Your Work Visa and Residency

• Before you can import a pet, you must first obtain a UAE work visa and residency permit.

• Only residents can sponsor a pet; tourists and visitors are not allowed to import animals.

• Your Emirates ID will be required when applying for the UAE Pet Import Permit.

Step 2: Confirm Pet Eligibility

• Cats and dogs are the primary animals allowed.

• Banned dog breeds: Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Japanese Tosas, Wolf hybrids, American Staffordshire Terriers, and others classified as dangerous breeds.

• Exotic pets, reptiles, and birds often need special permissions and may be restricted.

Step 3: Microchip Your Pet

• Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip (11784/11785 standard).

• The microchip number must appear on all veterinary records and certificates.

Step 4: Vaccinations and Veterinary Preparations

• For dogs: Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Leptospirosis.

• For cats: Rabies, Panleukopenia, Rhinotracheitis, and Calicivirus.

• Rabies vaccination must be at least 21 days old but not older than 12 months before travel.

• Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate confirming the pet is healthy, parasite-free, and fit for air travel.

Step 5: Apply for a UAE Pet Import Permit

• The application is submitted online via the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).

• The permit is valid for 30 days.

• Required documents:

  • Owner’s passport & Emirates ID

  • Pet’s vaccination record

  • Microchip details

  • Health certificate

Step 6: Buy an Airline-Approved Pet Crate

• The crate must meet IATA standards.

• Pets should be able to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.

• Attach water dispensers and absorbent bedding.

Step 7: Book the Flight

• Pets can travel as:

  • Manifest cargo (most common for the UAE)

  • Checked baggage (if the airline allows)

• Cabin travel is generally not permitted for pets entering the UAE.

Step 8: Veterinary Endorsements in Home Country

• The health certificate must be endorsed by the government veterinary authority in your country (e.g., USDA in the US, DEFRA in the UK).

• This proves authenticity for UAE customs.

Step 9: Arrival in the UAE

• At arrival, pets go through customs inspection at the airport.

• Officers will:

  • Scan the microchip

  • Verify vaccination records

  • Check the health certificate and import permit

• Pay customs clearance and duty fees.

Step 10: Quarantine if Necessary

• Pets with incomplete documents or questionable health may face quarantine for 7–21 days.

• Costs for quarantine are borne by the owner.

Cost Breakdown: Relocating Pets to UAE

Relocation costs vary depending on the pet, airline, and country of origin. Here’s a detailed table of average expenses:

👉 Total Average Cost: $900 – $2,400 per pet

Extra Tips for a Smooth Pet Relocation

• Start early: Begin preparations at least 3–4 months before travel.

• Choose a pet-friendly airline: Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways have good reputations.

• Acclimate your pet to the crate: Let your pet sleep inside it weeks before travel.

• Book direct flights: Avoid layovers in non-pet-friendly countries.

• Find pet-friendly housing: Not all UAE apartments allow pets; check tenancy contracts.

• Weather considerations: The UAE is hot; avoid peak summer relocations if possible.

• Use relocation services if overwhelmed: They handle permits, customs, and logistics.

FAQs: 10 Most Common Questions About Pet Relocation to UAE

1. Can I bring more than one pet?
Yes, but each resident is limited to 2 pets per year.

2. What happens if my work visa is still in process?
You cannot import pets until your residency permit and Emirates ID are issued.

3. Are there housing restrictions for pet owners?
Yes. Many UAE landlords prohibit pets, so look for pet-friendly communities.

4. Do I need to test my pet for rabies antibodies (titer test)?
No, the UAE does not currently require rabies titer testing.

5. What airlines are best for pet transport to UAE?
Emirates SkyCargo, Etihad Cargo, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways are reliable.

6. Can pets travel during summer in UAE?
Some airlines restrict pet travel during peak summer months (June–August) due to heat risks.

7. How long does the entire process take?
Plan for 6–12 weeks to complete all vaccinations, permits, and approvals.

8. What if my pet is elderly or sick?
The UAE requires a veterinary certificate confirming the pet is healthy enough for air travel.

9. Do I need pet insurance in UAE?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended. Veterinary care can be expensive.

10. Are there pet relocation agencies in UAE?
Yes. Several agencies specialize in handling everything from permits to customs, reducing stress.

Pros & Cons of Relocating with Pets to UAE

Pros

•  Keeps your pet close, reducing emotional stress.

•  UAE has modern vet clinics and pet-friendly services.

•  Pet-friendly communities and outdoor parks are increasing.

•  Clear government regulations make the process structured.

•  Stronger family bonding in your new home.

Cons

•  High financial costs (permits, cargo, vet fees).

•  Complicated paperwork with strict timelines.

•  Breed restrictions prevent some dogs from entering.

•  Limited availability of pet-friendly apartments.

•  Possible quarantine if documents are missing.

Relocating to the UAE with your pets on a work visa is absolutely possible—but it requires careful planning, budgeting, and attention to regulations. With the right preparation, your furry companions can settle into Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates alongside you.

The key is to start early, gather complete documentation, and budget realistically. Consider whether to handle everything yourself or hire a relocation agency. Once your pet is by your side, you’ll enjoy the UAE lifestyle more fully—with companionship, comfort, and peace of mind.

Apply today through the official website to begin your UAE work visa and pet relocation journey today.