Relocating to Dubai with your beloved pets is an adventure filled with excitement and a few challenges. The city’s opulent lifestyle and numerous pet-friendly amenities make it a dream destination, yet the intricacies of the relocation process can be overwhelming.
However, with meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of Dubai’s unique regulations, you can ensure a seamless transition. Keep reading to turn your relocation journey into a stress-free, enjoyable adventure, letting you and your pets thrive in Dubai’s vibrant setting.
- Getting Ready to Move
- Choosing the Right Airline To Travel With Your Pet
- Getting Your Pet Ready for the Trip
- Travelling With Your Pet
- Settling in Dubai
- FAQs for Tips for Relocating to Dubai with Pets
Getting Ready to Move
Start your journey right by understanding all the essentials needed to help you prepare for your move.
Pet Import Regulations
Learn about the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) pet import laws before you start the relocation process. Pets entering Dubai must follow certain rules. Among them are:
Microchipping
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.
Vaccinations
Ensure that your pet’s vaccines are up to date, especially the rabies vaccine, which must be given at least 21 days but no more than 12 months before departure.
Health Certificate
Get an export health certificate from a vet that is licenced, attesting to the pet’s good health and fitness for travel.
Permit for Pet Import
Get an import permit from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in the United Arab Emirates.
Choosing the Right Airline To Travel With Your Pet
It’s important to select a pet-friendly airline to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for your furry companion. Travellers heading to Dubai often choose Emirates Airlines because of its comprehensive pet policy.
If you plan to take your fur baby on an Emirates flight, know that small pets under a specific weight can travel in the cabin if they meet a few conditions. Otherwise, if you are travelling with larger pets you will need them to transit via the cargo hold, which is conditioned and made to keep pets safe.
Make sure all required paperwork is complete and sent to the airline ahead of time.
Getting Your Pet Ready for the Trip
Make sure your pet is travel-ready with these crucial preparation tips.
See the Veterinarian
Plan a veterinarian checkup to make sure your pet is healthy enough to go. Discuss concerns and take up any prescribed medications or dietary supplements that can make your pet more comfortable travelling.
Crate Training
Get a reliable travel crate that has been certified by the airline. To help your pet feel safe and comfortable throughout the relocation, start crate training them well in advance. Your pet should be able to comfortably stand, turn around and lie down in the box.
Items of Comfort
Stuff your pet’s travel crate with familiar toys, blankets and bedding to help soothe and calm them throughout the trip.
Travelling With Your Pet
Navigate the journey smoothly with our tips for travelling with your pet.
Airport Protocols
To give yourself enough time for security and check-in, get to the airport early. Even when they are travelling in the cabin, most airlines still check dogs at the cargo section. Make sure you have all the required paperwork on hand.
Things to Consider While Flying
Make sure your pet stays in its carrier the whole trip if it is travelling in the cabin. Reassure yourself that the cargo hold is pressurised and climate-controlled to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet.
Settling in Dubai
Help your pet adjust and thrive in their new Dubai home with these settling-in strategies.
Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Look for home alternatives in Dubai that allow pets. Many apartment buildings and villa communities allow pets, but before signing a lease, make sure the landlord or property management is aware of the pet policy.
Pet Registration
Register your pet with the Dubai Municipality as soon as you get there. Verifying your microchip and getting a required pet licence are included in this registration.
Pet Services and Amenities
Dubai offers a range of pet services, including veterinary clinics, grooming and pet-sitting. Popular veterinary clinics include The Veterinary Hospital, British Veterinary Hospital and Modern Veterinary Clinic.
Outdoor Areas and Pet-Related Activities
Dubai has dog parks, parks and beaches that welcome pets. Dog owners’ favourite places include The Greens and Al Qudra Lakes.
There are many dog friendly areas in Dubai, like parks and beaches, where you can enjoy time with your furry friend.
Joining Pet Community
Join local pet communities to meet with other pet owners and acquire tips on relocating to Dubai with your animals. Local meet-ups and social media groups can provide helpful information and support.There are many pet friendly communities in Dubai, ideal for residents with furry companions seeking welcoming environments.
FAQs for Tips for Relocating to Dubai with Pets
Yes, you can move to Dubai with your pets. Pet relocation requires compliance with specific requirements and costs, including import permits, vaccine cards or animal passports and an updated microchip. Numerous organisations offer pet relocation Dubai services to assist with the process.
Yes, your dog can live with you in Dubai. However, be sure your apartment is pet-friendly; not all buildings accept dogs. A signed letter of consent from the building manager or your landlord will help you ensure your safety and avoid potential legal troubles.
Dogs, cats, parrots and small mammals like hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets are allowed in Dubai. However, some communities prohibit exotic pets and certain dog breeds.
Relocating to Dubai with pets requires careful planning and preparation, focusing on import laws, pet-friendly airlines and preparing your pet for travel. After arrival, register your pet, find pet-friendly housing and utilise Dubai’s pet services for a smooth transition.
Dubai also offers dog friendly communities with amenities and spaces catering to pet owners and their canine companions.
Prepare your furry friend for a smooth move to Dubai today!
