The pet is implanted with an ISO 11784/11785 microchip. The chip number must match across all documents. Microchipping is done BEFORE the rabies vaccination.

Vaccinate against rabies

The rabies vaccine is given no earlier than 12 weeks of age and only after microchipping. After vaccination, a minimum of 21 days is observed before import. Dogs and cats also need their core species vaccinations.

Get the vet certificate (and titre if required)

The competent veterinary authority of the exporting country issues a health certificate describing the animal and all vaccinations. From non-'approved' countries a rabies antibody titre test may be required.

Obtain the MOCCAE import permit

Once vaccinations and tests are in order, apply for the import permit via the MOCCAE portal. The permit is valid for 30 days from issuance — you cannot import on an expired document.

Arrival and airport check

The pet arrives as cargo or accompanied; documents and the chip are checked at the airport. Confirm airline and terminal requirements in advance.

How to bring a cat or dog to Dubai

Official source: Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) — Import of pets (cats/dogs)

Facts from the official MOCCAE service page 'Import of pets (cats/dogs)'. The pet must be microchipped to ISO 11784/11785 standard; the rabies vaccine is given no earlier than 12 weeks of age and AFTER microchipping, then a minimum of 21 days is observed. The MOCCAE import permit is valid for 30 days from issuance. The approved-country list, titre test and fees are on moccae.gov.ae. We don't invent numbers.

Official authorities

Direct links to the relevant government departments.

MOCCAE — Import of pets (cats/dogs)MOCCAE — Ministry of Climate Change & Environment

Import procedure

1
Microchip the pet
The pet is implanted with an ISO 11784/11785 microchip. The chip number must match across all documents. Microchipping is done BEFORE the rabies vaccination.
Documents:Pet passportMicrochip number
2
Vaccinate against rabies
The rabies vaccine is given no earlier than 12 weeks of age and only after microchipping. After vaccination, a minimum of 21 days is observed before import. Dogs and cats also need their core species vaccinations.
Documents:Vaccination certificateVaccination dates
3
Get the vet certificate (and titre if required)
The competent veterinary authority of the exporting country issues a health certificate describing the animal and all vaccinations. From non-'approved' countries a rabies antibody titre test may be required.
Documents:Vet health certificateTitre test result (if required)
4
Obtain the MOCCAE import permit
Once vaccinations and tests are in order, apply for the import permit via the MOCCAE portal. The permit is valid for 30 days from issuance — you cannot import on an expired document.
5
Arrival and airport check
The pet arrives as cargo or accompanied; documents and the chip are checked at the airport. Confirm airline and terminal requirements in advance.