Relocating to Dubai from UK? How can you take your dog?
Or any other pet, for that matter. Complete relocation guide for British expats
Relocating to Dubai isn’t just a career or tax decision; it’s a full lifestyle reset. Think 0% income tax, 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, year-round sunshine, and a well-established community of over 240,000 British expats. All anchored in one of the safest cities in the world. For many UK families and founders planning a business setup in Dubai, there’s one non-negotiable part of the move that matters just as much as visas and housing: bringing the family pet.
The good news is that pet import requirements in Dubai for UK citizens are clear, structured, and refreshingly practical. There’s no quarantine if your paperwork is correct, permits are issued through official government channels, and the process is designed to protect animal welfare without unnecessary friction.
While you prepare vaccinations and paperwork for your pet, Meydan Free Zone simplifies the rest of your relocation – business licensing, visa support, and banking – so your move to the UAE is smooth from day one.
What it takes to bring pets from the UK to Dubai
For most UK expats, importing a pet into Dubai is far simpler than expected, provided you follow the rules precisely. The UAE’s system focuses on health, traceability, and responsible ownership rather than restriction.
Types of pets you can bring
Cats and dogs are the most common and easiest pets to import into Dubai. Small animals such as rabbits or hamsters may be allowed, but often require additional approvals. Exotic or endangered species are heavily restricted or banned, so it’s always wise to confirm eligibility with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) before planning travel.
Import limits
Each person can import up to two pets per year. This can be two dogs, two cats, or one of each. If you’re relocating with more pets, another adult household member must apply separately under their name.
Core documents you’ll need
Dubai’s pet import requirements are thorough but logical. Here’s what UK expats must prepare:
Import permit
Issued through the MOCCAE online portal and valid for 90 days. You’ll upload your pet’s photo, vaccination record, passport copy, and Emirates ID (if available).
ISO-compliant microchip
Your pet must have a 15-digit ISO microchip implanted before vaccinations. The microchip number must appear on all documents.
Vaccination records or pet passport
Rabies vaccination must be given at least 21 days before travel (after microchipping).
Dogs require distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis vaccines.
Cats require calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and panleukopenia vaccines.
Export Health Certificate (EHC)
Issued by an Official Veterinarian in the UK within 7 days of travel and endorsed by APHA. This confirms your pet is healthy and fit to fly.
Parasite treatment record
Internal and external parasite treatment must be administered within 14 days of departure.
Bill of lading
Provided by the airline or cargo agent and required for customs clearance in Dubai.
Banned dog breeds
Certain breeds are prohibited from entering the UAE, including Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosa, American Bully, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Presa Canario, and wolf hybrids. Always check the latest banned breed list before booking travel.
No rabies titer test required
A major advantage for UK expats is that the UK is classified as a low-risk rabies country. This means no rabies antibody titer test and no quarantine on arrival, as long as all documents are compliant.
Step-by-step: flying pets from the UK to Dubai
Once documentation is clear, the journey itself becomes manageable with proper planning.
- Veterinary preparation
Ensure all vaccinations are completed correctly and within required timelines. Rabies must be given at least 21 days before travel, and parasite treatments within 14 days. Every detail—dates, batch numbers, signatures—must be accurate.
- Organise official paperwork
Two documents are essential: the UK export health certificate and the UAE import permit. The health certificate must be issued shortly before travel and endorsed by APHA, while the import permit is applied for online through MOCCAE.
- Book the flight
Pets from the UK must fly to Dubai as manifest cargo, not in the cabin or as checked baggage. Airlines such as Emirates SkyCargo and Etihad Cargo handle these routes. Direct flights are strongly recommended to reduce stress.
- Crate requirements
Crates must be IATA-compliant, well-ventilated, and large enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Snub-nosed breeds may require additional airline approvals.
- Decide on relocation support
You can manage the process independently or use a certified pet relocation service. For founders relocating to launch a business or move with family, professional support often saves time and stress.
- Day-of-flight preparation
Avoid feeding your pet 4–6 hours before departure. Freeze water bowls, add absorbent padding, and include a familiar item for comfort. Keep all documents printed and accessible.
What happens when your pet arrives in Dubai
Arrival procedures are efficient and calm. Customs officials scan the microchip, verify documents, and perform a brief health inspection. Because the UK is low-risk, there’s no quarantine. Most pets are cleared within one to two hours.
After clearance, you’ll register your pet online through Dubai Municipality or via a local veterinary clinic to receive an official UAE pet ID tag.
Settling into Dubai’s pet-friendly lifestyle
Dubai has evolved into a genuinely pet-friendly city, especially for expats.
Popular pet-friendly neighbourhoods
Areas like Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Village Circle, The Greens, Meydan, and parts of Business Bay are well-known among UK pet owners for walkability, green spaces, and relaxed community rules.
Veterinary care and services
Dubai offers high-quality veterinary clinics, grooming salons, dog daycare, pet taxis, and mobile vet services. Access to care is rarely an issue.
Local pet laws
Dogs must be leashed in public, and some beaches and parks restrict pets. Breed restrictions can change, so staying informed is important.
Climate considerations
Dubai’s summer heat requires adjustments. Walk pets early morning or after sunset, avoid hot pavements, and always carry water.
Ready for your new life…
Relocating to Dubai with your pet is not only possible, it’s well-structured and humane when done correctly. From microchips and vaccinations to permits and arrival checks, pet import requirements in Dubai for UK citizens are transparent and designed to protect both animals and owners.
While you prepare months in advance for your pet’s journey, Meydan Free Zone helps you build your life in Dubai from anywhere in the world. With a fully online setup, a Fawri business license issued in under 60 minutes, and integrated visa and banking support, your relocation doesn’t start when you land—it starts the moment you decide.
Your pet arrives. Your business is live. And your Dubai chapter begins with everything already in motion.
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