Are you planning on relocating to the UAE with your pet pooch? If so, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this article our sister site – RHJ Accountants – have provided you with a complete guide to relocating to the UAE with your pet pooch. Including important information such as obtaining a valid import permit, how to ship your pet in accordance with international air transport association regulations, the number of pets allowed to travel with one person and whether or not your pet needs to be quarantined.
The law
Relocating your pet to the United Arab Emirates requires adhering to specific laws and regulations.
- Your pet needs to have a valid import permit before travelling to the UAE. The permit’s validity is 30 days, so your pet must travel within a given timeframe.
- All pets travelling to the UAE must be shipped in manifested cargo as per International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations.
- A maximum of two pets can travel per person, and each pet must have an import permit.
- The UAE doesn’t require pets entering the country to be quarantined.
Some breeds are prohibited from entering the UAE, including American Bulldog, Pitbull Terrier, Bull Mastiff and Tosa Inu. You might not want to move to the UAE if you own one of these breeds. Unless you have a family member in your home country willing to look after your pooch.
To ensure a successful pet relocation to the UAE, it is essential to know and understand the laws and regulations. Working with a reliable UAE relocation team like us can help make the process smoother, faster and easier by providing the best advice and assistance.
Required documentation
When relocating to the UAE with your pet, it’s important to make sure that you have all the required documentation –
- Owner’s passport copy: Before you apply for the UAE pet import permit, make sure you have the required documentation too; as the pooches owner. Have a scanned copy of your passport, UAE residence visa and Emirates ID.
- UAE pet import permit: Any pet relocating to the UAE requires a pet import permit. This permit is mandatory to facilitate clearance for your pet at customs in the UAE, and to book your pet’s flight too! The permit is valid for 30 days from issue, so make sure you organise your flights wisely. You can find detailed on the official Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) website.
- Original vaccination card or animal passport: Ensure your pet has a microchip number, date of birth and vaccination records.
- Valid original official health certificate from the exporting country: This document is used to show proof that your pet has been examined, and is healthy!
- Original certificate for Rabies Serum Neutralization test (RSNT): All pets entering the UAE have to show proof that they are free from rabies. However, if you bring your pet from a country that isn’t listed as rabies-controlled, make sure you have the test conducted 90 days prior to travel. Check the MOACCAE website to see what countries are considered rabies-controlled.
- The minimum titer: A laboratory test used to measure the level of antibodies in the blood. The test must show 0.5IU/ml has be obtained before bringing your pet to the UAE.
Things to consider
Relocating to the UAE with your pet pooch is a big decision and requires careful consideration. Before making the move, there are several factors to consider for both you and your pet.
- Weather: It is important to note that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a desert climate, which can be quite hot during the summer months. Make sure that your pet is suited to this type of environment. And if not, research methods to keep them comfortable.
- Suitable Home: Consider what kind of living space is best for your pet in their new home. If you haven’t found a suitable home yet, consider contacting our UAE estate agents team to help you!
- Hiring professional services: Moving your pet abroad can be an overwhelming process, so consider requesting RHJ Laws services to help you with the process.
How RHJ Accountants can help
At RHJ Accountants, we may not be pet professionals, but we are experts in all the rules for relocating to the UAE.
With an increasing number of flights to the UAE this year, why not consider relocating to the UAE or at least making a trip there to see what you think? We want to make the process as efficient as possible, whether you are travelling with a pet pooch or not. If you do decide to relocate to the UAE, you must get an Emirates ID.
From accountants to moving experts, our services can help you get ready for living and operating in the UAE. We’ll help you understand tax-free zones and take advantage of other great opportunities the country can provide you.
