Moving to the UAE is exciting, but leaving your beloved cat behind? Absolutely not an option. Whether you’re relocating to Dubai’s bustling streets or Abu Dhabi’s cultural heart, importing a cat to UAE requires careful planning and patience.
The good news is that thousands of pet parents successfully navigate this process every year, and with the right preparation, your feline friend will be purring in their new Middle Eastern home sooner than you think.
Documentation and health requirements
Your journey begins at your local veterinarian’s office, where your cat will need a comprehensive health examination within 10 days of travel.
Here’s what you’ll need to secure:
- Health certificate: An official document from your vet confirming your cat’s fitness to travel
- Vaccination records: Current rabies vaccination (at least 21 days old but not expired) plus core vaccines
- Microchip identification: ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip inserted before rabies vaccination
- Import permit: Obtained from UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
- Endorsement: Government veterinary endorsement of all health documents
The vaccination timeline is crucial – rabies vaccines must be administered after microchipping to ensure proper identification. Most countries require a 21-day waiting period post-vaccination before travel, so plan accordingly.
For cats arriving from certain countries, additional tests may be required. Countries classified as ‘high-risk’ for rabies may need titre tests, which can add several weeks to your timeline.
Navigating quarantine and arrival procedures
One of the most common concerns about bringing a cat to the UAE is quarantine requirements. Fortunately, cats from most Western countries can avoid quarantine entirely when proper documentation is complete.
Upon arrival at Dubai International Airport or Abu Dhabi International Airport, your cat will undergo veterinary inspection. The process typically takes 1-3 hours, during which officials will:
- Verify all documentation matches your pet
- Scan the microchip for identification
- Conduct a basic health assessment
- Collect applicable fees
If any documentation is incomplete or concerns arise during inspection, temporary quarantine may be necessary. This typically lasts 10-30 days and incurs additional costs.
Understanding costs and budgeting for your move
Importing a cat to UAE involves several costs that can vary significantly based on your departure location and chosen services.
Typical expenses include:
- Veterinary services: £150-300 for examinations, vaccinations, and health certificates
- Government endorsements: £50-150 depending on your country
- Import permit: Approximately AED 200 (£45)
- Flight costs: £200-800 for pet cargo or cabin travel
- Airport clearance fees: AED 300-500 (£70-110)
- Professional pet relocation services: £800-2,000 for full-service assistance
Many pet parents find professional relocation services worthwhile, particularly for complex routes or first-time moves. These specialists handle documentation, coordinate flights, and manage airport procedures, reducing stress for both you and your cat.
Budget for potential additional costs like temporary quarantine (AED 50-100 daily) or document corrections. Having a buffer of £200-500 helps manage unexpected expenses without panic.
The timeline for flying your cat to the UAE typically spans 4-8 weeks from initial veterinary visit to arrival. Starting early reduces stress and allows time to address any complications that arise.
Remember that this process, while detailed, opens the door to incredible adventures with your feline companion in one of the world’s most pet-friendly regions. The UAE offers excellent veterinary care, numerous pet-friendly accommodations, and a growing community of expatriate pet owners ready to welcome newcomers.
Start your preparation by contacting your veterinarian and researching import permits. Your cat’s new adventure awaits, and with proper planning, the journey will be as smooth as their satisfied purr in their new home.
