Dubai/UAE Pet Relocation Requirements Overview: Moving Pets to Dubai from Hong Kong (Relocation from/to other territories, please feel free to contact us for details) Dubai and the UAE welcome cats and dogs as companion pets, making the Emirates one of the most pet-friendly destinations in the Middle East. The UAE has no mandatory quarantine requirements for pets that arrive with complete documentation and proper health clearances, allowing for immediate reunification with their families upon successful customs inspection. Dubai's modern infrastructure, excellent veterinary care, and growing number of pet-friendly venues make it an attractive destination for expat families with pets. The warm climate and outdoor lifestyle provide excellent opportunities for active pets to thrive in their new environment. For reference only. Please refer to corresponding government channels for the most updated information.
Start planning 3-4 months in advance for smooth processing Rabies Serum Neutralization Test Certificate within 90 days before departure Direct flights available from Hong Kong to Dubai International Airport Key Planning Requirements: Timeline & Advanced Planning
Essential Requirements Checklist 1. . UAE Import Permit Mandatory import permit from Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) Valid import permit must be obtained before travel - pets will be refused entry with expired permits Maximum 2 pets per person per year (2 cats/ 2 dogs, or 1 cat + 1 dog) 2. Microchipping ISO-compliant microchip mandatory 3. Age Requirements Minimum age: 15 weeks for entry Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old for rabies vaccination Cats must be at least 12 weeks old for rabies vaccination 4. Rabies Vaccination & Testing Rabies vaccination mandatory for all cats and dogs Must be administered at least 21 days before travel Rabies Serum Neutralization Test (RSNT) required for pets from certain countries including Hong Kong Test must show minimum titer of 0.5 IU/ml RSNT must be conducted 90 days before travel
Required Vaccinations Dogs Must Be Vaccinated Against: Rabies Canine Distemper Virus Canine Parvovirus Infectious Canine Hepatitis Leptospirosis (icterohaemorrhagiae and canicola) Cats Must Be Vaccinated Against: Rabies Feline Panleukopenia Feline Rhinotracheitis Feline Calicivirus
Documentation & Entry Process Essential Documents Valid Health Certificate Import Permit Vaccination Records Rabies Test Parasite Treatment Records Travel & Entry Requirements Transportation Method: Manifest cargo only - pets cannot travel as excess baggage to UAE Exception: Small pets can travel in-cabin on certain flights All cargo pets must use approved travel crates Quarantine: Immediate Release Conditions: No quarantine required if all documentation is complete and accurate Customs inspection process can take several hours Government veterinarian inspection upon arrival Pets may be quarantined if documentation is incomplete or health issues are identified
Important Considerations Climate & Lifestyle Hot climate requires special care - keep pets hydrated and avoid midday outdoor activities Dubai has excellent veterinary network for ongoing pet care Growing number of pet-friendly venues, parks, and accommodations Legal Requirements in UAE All dogs must be leashed and muzzled in public places Parasite prevention especially important due to regional environment Pet ownership regulations vary between emirates
PetMover provides comprehensive Dubai pet relocation services, managing every aspect of the 3-4 month preparation timeline. Our experienced team coordinates with MOCCAE for import permits, arranges required health testing, handles all veterinary documentation, and ensures smooth customs clearance - delivering peace of mind for your pet's journey to their new Middle Eastern home. Expert Pet Relocation Support Contact PetMover today to begin your pet's exciting journey to their new Canadian home with confidence and peace of mind.