UAE

How to immigrate with your Pet from South Africa to the UAE.

Are you relocating to the UAE and do you want to bring your pet with you? If so, PETport is here to help you with every step of the process! 

 

WHAT KINDS OF PETS ARE ALLOWED INTO THE UAE?

Puppies and kittens are only allowed into the UAE if they are at least 15 weeks old and have been vaccinated against Rabies.

The UAE also does not allow the following dog breeds into the country:
Bull Terrier (all kinds), Japanese Tosa, Brazilian Fighting Dog, Mastiff (all kinds), Rottweiler, Argentinian Fighting Dog, Wolf Dog Hybrid (or any dog that is a wolf mix), American Bully, Pinscher, Boxer, Canario Presa, Doberman (any type)

If you want to bring your hamster, rabbit, guinea pig, ferret or other small mammal, it must be microchipped and travel with a health certificate.

MICROCHIPPING AND VACCINATIONS

Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784 compliant microchip. This should feature a 15-digit, non-encrypted number with up to date details about the pet.

Your pet should also be accompanied by a vet certificate stating that all its vaccinations are up to date with details about the vaccine, the manufacturer, expiration date and batch number.

Cats need to be vaccinated against calicivirus, Freline rhinotracheitis and panleukopnia, while dogs should have current leptospirosis, Distemper, parvovirus and canine hepatitis vaccines.

In addition, you need to show proof that your dog or cat has been treated against internal and external parasites within 10 days of travel.

You will need to show proof that your pet has had a Rabies vaccine at least 21 days before arriving in the UAE and no more than 12 months before arrival. The vaccine certificate must show the Rabies vaccine’s manufacturer, the expiry date and batch number.

BLOOD TESTS

Your pet will need a rabies titre test before entry into the UAE. This blood draw should be completed at least 31 days after the rabies vaccinations but make sure documents are checked before completing. Pets can only enter on the same valid rabies vaccination that was completed for the blood draw.

DOCUMENTATION FOR IMPORT TO THE UAE.

An original, signed vet certificate is required for all pets entering the UAE. The certificate should state that your pet has been examined and found fit to fly 24 hours before leaving South Africa and has no external parasites.

REGULATIONS FOR PETS ENTERING THE UAE

There are various rules governing the import of pets into the UAE. Firstly, your pet must enter through one of the approved entry points:

Dubai airport
Abu Dhabi airport
RAK airport
El Bateen
Sharjah
Al Ain Airport
Ajman
Fujairah

Pets are only allowed to arrive between Monday and Thursday and you can only import 2 pets per person every year. If you have more than 2 pets, this can be arranged by special permission. Your dog will need to be leashed and muzzled when it is in a public place.

CITES

A CITES declaration is required for all birds, turtles and reptiles entering the UAE. The CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) should attest that your pet is not protected against this regulation.

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

The process is complex and specific paperwork is required. However, PETport guides you through the entire process and we make sure that everything is in order and as easy as possible for you and your pet. We are always here to answer any questions you may have!

It’s actually cheaper than you think! The final price you pay will depend on the size of your pet and your final destination within the UAE. Contact us for an exact quote and get the ball rolling!

Vets often say that it’s worse for the owners than for the pet when they fly. Your pet will be placed in a secure and comfortable carrier and will fly in a heated section of the hold. You are free to include their favorite blanket and you may give your pet a calming product 1 hour before flying. Calmeze tablets can be given to dogs while the gel is effective for cats.

No, the good news is that there is no quarantine upon arrival in the UAE. Cats, however, must be quarantined 14 days prior to traveling.

 

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Mrs Fishhoek
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Have used them twice, both times I've been extremely happy. Updated via telephone, email and sms. Driver was friendly and brilliant with pets. Good prices.
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Great service. Our dog was so spoiled and happy there
Jane Kelly
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Very caring, with both animals and humans alike