To import a pet into the United Arab Emirates, you need an import permit issued by the Ministry of Environment and Water. To obtain an importation permit, complete the online electronic import application form (see Resources for a link). After completing the online application, fax the required documentation to: +971-04-265-5822. Allow a minimum of seven business days before the importation permit is issued. The ministry is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. The permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
To process the importation permit, the ministry requires a copy of your pet's vaccination records. Your pet must have received the rabies vaccination more than 30 days prior to the application for the permit. UAE only recognizes the one- year rabies vaccination. The ministry also requires proof of an ISO-standardized microchip number, and full details of the pet including date of birth, sex, color and breed. A copy of your passport, address and phone number in the UAE and your country of origin are also required.
To clear customs with your pet, present the original valid importation permit, a health certificate from a licensed USDA-approved veterinarian and the original rabies vaccination record. You must also pay an importation fee to the custom's inspector. As of May 2010, the cost is approximately $55 USD or 200 AED. Payment is only accepted with an e-dirham card, a virtual debit card that is available for purchase at the airport prior to clearing customs.
United Arab Emirates prohibits the importation of certain dog breeds. All types of pit bulls, American Staffordshire terriers, Japanese tosas, Argentinian fighting dogs, Brazilian fighting dogs and wolf dog hybrids are prohibited from importation into the UEA. In addition, any dog that is a cross breed with any of these breeds is prohibited.
The American Veterinary Clinic is a full-service veterinary clinic located in Abu Dhabi. The clinic provides the only pet relocation service in the United Arab Emirates that is certified by the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association International (IPATA). For a fee, the clinic will assist you with all aspects of importing your pet into Dubai. This service is recommended by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Washington, D.C. Although it is not necessary to use this service, it is a reputable, hassle-free option to consider if you want to bring your pet to Dubai.
