Updated June 2026
Dog RelocationDog Relocation to Dubai — Bring Your Dog Home Safely
Breed checks, crate sizing, MOCCAE permits, and cargo flights — handled end to end, with WhatsApp updates at every step.
What Every Dog Owner Worries About (And How We Handle It)
Every dog owner we speak to has the same fears. They are valid. We name them, then we solve them.
“Will my dog be scared in the crate?”
Most dogs adjust well to an IATA-certified crate if they meet it before travel day. We send you a crate-training guide as soon as you book. We also use crates with ventilation on all four sides, so your dog can see light and smell airflow — not just darkness.
Our partner vets check your dog's health and temperament before travel. If your dog has severe anxiety, we discuss options: calming aids (vet-approved only), direct routing to minimise transit time, or a pet nanny service for certain routes.
“Is my breed allowed in Dubai?”
The UAE bans certain dog breeds at the federal level. Others are restricted, which means extra rules about where you can live and how you walk your dog. We run a breed check in your first WhatsApp conversation — before you pay anything. If your breed is restricted, we tell you exactly what that means for daily life in Dubai, not just for import.
“What if something goes wrong during the flight?”
Pets travel in the same climate-controlled, pressurised cargo hold as temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals. The temperature is maintained between 18°C and 24°C. We book morning flights wherever possible to avoid ground heat during loading and unloading.
If a flight is delayed or cancelled, we know before the airline announces it. We rebook your dog's boarding, arrange extended care with our vet partner, and tell you immediately. You are never left wondering.
How Dog Relocation Works — Step by Step
We do not believe in vague promises. Here is exactly what happens, and who does what.
Breed check and route planning
You send us your dog's breed, weight, and origin country on WhatsApp. Within 15 minutes, we confirm:
- Is your breed banned or restricted in the UAE?
- Is your origin country low-risk or high-risk for rabies?
- Does your route have a direct flight, or will your dog transit through another airport?
- Is your planned travel date inside the summer heat embargo?
If everything checks out, we send you an itemised quote. If there is a problem, we tell you straight away and explain your alternatives.
Veterinary preparation and documents
Our partner vet implants (or verifies) an ISO 11784/11785 microchip and administers a rabies vaccination. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine, or the vaccine is invalid for import.
For dogs from high-risk rabies countries, we also coordinate the rabies titer test (RNATT). Blood is drawn at least 21 days after vaccination, sent to an accredited lab, and then you must wait 90 days from the date of sampling before your dog can enter the UAE.
We track every deadline. We remind you when the next step is due. We check every document three times before submission.
MOCCAE import permit and flight booking
We apply for your dog's MOCCAE import permit online. The permit costs AED 200 per pet and is valid for 90 days from issuance (a release fee of AED 500/dog is also payable on arrival). We know which forms are current, which office to submit to, and the common reasons for rejection.
Once the permit is approved, we book your dog's manifest cargo flight with the airline's cargo department — not the passenger reservation desk. We confirm pet-specific rules in writing: crate dimensions, breed restrictions, temperature limits, and transit care.
Travel day and arrival in Dubai
Within 10 days of travel, our vet partner issues your dog's international health certificate and administers internal and external antiparasitic treatment. We label the crate with correct IATA markings, attach a water bowl, and attach a small food bag to the top (required for flights over 12 hours).
At Dubai arrival, we handle customs clearance at DXB or DWC cargo terminal. Your dog is cleared and delivered to your door — or you collect from the terminal, whichever you prefer. We send photos at check-in, at boarding, and at arrival.
What Your Dog Needs to Enter Dubai
These are not optional. Missing one document can mean your pet is refused entry, confiscated, or re-exported — at your expense (boarding/re-flight costs can run into the thousands). We do not say this to frighten you. We say it because we have seen what happens when owners use outdated checklists from the internet.
The five documents every dog needs
- 1
MOCCAE Import Permit
Applied online via the MOCCAE portal. Valid 90 days from issuance. Cost: AED 200 per pet (plus AED 500/dog release fee on arrival).
- 2
ISO Microchip Certificate
15-digit ISO 11784/11785 compliant. Must be implanted before rabies vaccination.
- 3
Rabies Vaccination Certificate
Administered at or after 12 weeks of age. Must be at least 21 days old at time of travel, and within 12 months.
- 4
International Health Certificate
Issued by an accredited government veterinarian within 10 days of arrival. Must include antiparasitic treatment records.
- 5
Antiparasitic Treatment Record
Internal deworming and external flea/tick treatment within 14 days of arrival.
Vaccination timeline for dogs
- Canine Distemper (CDV) — Required
- Canine Parvovirus (CPV) — Required
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus) — Required
- Leptospirosis — Required
- Rabies — Required (inactivated or recombinant only; live attenuated vaccines are not accepted by MOCCAE)
Banned and Restricted Dog Breeds in Dubai
This is the section dog owners read first. We do not hide it at the bottom of the page.
Completely banned breeds
The following breeds and their mixes cannot be imported into the UAE under any circumstances (unless certified as a service animal by an ADI or IGDF accredited organisation):
Pit Bull Types:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- American Bully
- Any Bull Terrier or Pit Bull cross
Mastiff Types:
- Brazilian Mastiff (Fila Brasileiro)
- Argentinian Mastiff (Dogo Argentino)
- Tibetan Mastiff
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- French Mastiff (Dogue de Bordeaux)
- Boerboel
- Bullmastiff
- Cane Corso (Italian Mastiff)
- Bully Kutta (Alangu / Indian Mastiff)
- Perro de Presa Canario (Canary Mastiff)
- Any Mastiff or hybrid
Other:
- Japanese Tosa (Tosa Inu)
- Presa Canario
- Wolf-dog hybrids (any dog mixed with a wolf)
Restricted breeds — what “restricted” actually means
In Dubai, the following breeds face additional rules even if they are permitted to enter:
- Bull Terrier (including Miniature)
- Husky
- English Bulldog / Old English Bulldog
- Perro de Presa Mallorquin
- Shar Pei
- Rottweiler (in some community contexts)
- Doberman Pinscher (in some community contexts)
If you own one of these breeds, you must:
- Register with the Dubai Municipality Veterinary Services Division
- Keep your dog leashed and muzzled in public
- Not live in an apartment (villa or townhouse only in most communities)
- Display the municipality ID tag on your dog's collar at all times
What to do if your breed is on the list
Service animal exception: If your dog is a certified service animal (not emotional support) trained by an ADI or IGDF accredited organisation, you may apply for an exemption. You need full training records and medical justification.
Reconsider the move: We know this is hard to hear. But importing a banned breed illegally can result in fines from AED 10,000 to AED 700,000, jail time, and confiscation of your dog. We would rather tell you the truth now than hide it.
Contact us anyway: Breed identification is not always straightforward. A “Pit Bull mix” label from a shelter may not match the UAE's legal definition. Send us photos and paperwork. We will give you an honest answer.
Ask about your dog's breedIATA Travel Crates for Dogs
Your dog's crate is their home for the flight. It must be the right size, the right material, and the right ventilation. A non-compliant crate will be refused at cargo check-in — and you will miss your flight.
How to measure your dog for the right crate
Use these three measurements:
- 1.Length (A): From tip of nose to base of tail, while standing
- 2.Height (B): From ground to top of head or ears (whichever is higher), while standing
- 3.Width (C): At the widest point of the body
Crate minimum internal dimensions:
- • Length = A + ½B (your dog must be able to lie down with legs extended)
- • Height = B + 5 cm (your dog must be able to stand without ears touching the roof)
- • Width = C × 2 (your dog must be able to turn around comfortably)
Crate sizes by dog weight and breed
| Dog Size | Weight Range | Typical Crate Size | Example Breeds | Est. Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 10 kg | 48 × 32 × 32 cm (Series 200) | Dachshund, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu | 500–700 |
| Medium | 10–25 kg | 68 × 53 × 51 cm (Series 300) | Beagle, Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel | 700–1,000 |
| Large | 25–40 kg | 81 × 61 × 61 cm (Series 400) | Labrador, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd | 1,000–1,500 |
| Extra-Large | Over 40 kg | 102 × 70 × 76 cm (Series 500/700) | Great Dane, Mastiff, Rottweiler | 1,500–2,000 |
Important: The crate must be rigid plastic or wood with a solid metal door. Wire crates are not accepted. Ventilation must be present on all four sides (for international flights). Food and water bowls must be attached to the inside of the door, accessible from outside without opening the door. The crate must have “Live Animal” and “This Way Up” labels on all sides.
We provide IATA-certified crates sized to your dog. We do not sell crates separately — they are included in our service coordination so we know they are correct.
Airline Options for Flying Dogs to Dubai
All dogs entering the UAE must travel as manifest cargo. They cannot travel as checked baggage or in the cabin on flights to Dubai, with one exception.
Emirates SkyCargo — the standard for DXB arrivals
Emirates SkyCargo is the most common choice for dogs arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
- ✕ In-cabin: No regular dogs allowed. Only trained service dogs.
- ✕ Checked baggage: Not accepted for flights to Dubai.
- ✓ Cargo: Mandatory. We book directly with the Emirates SkyCargo team, not the passenger reservation desk.
- ✓ Booking notice: Minimum 72 hours advance.
- ✓ Requirements: Photos of your dog in the crate, health certificates, and an Owner Acknowledgement Form.
- ✓ Transit care: Dogs in transit for more than 6 hours at DXB are cared for at the Emirates Pet Lounge.
- ! Breed restrictions: Emirates is stricter than UAE law. Snub-nose breeds are restricted to November–April only.
Etihad Airways — in-cabin option to Abu Dhabi
Etihad is the only UAE airline that allows small dogs in the cabin — but only on flights to or from Abu Dhabi (AUH), not Dubai.
- ✓ In-cabin (PETC): Dog + carrier must weigh ≤8 kg. Carrier max: 40 × 40 × 22 cm (Economy). Fee: USD 399 per flight segment.
- ✓ Booking: Must be done via Etihad Contact Centre. Submit form 7 days before, documents 72 hours before.
- ! Abu Dhabi entry: Requires a Bill of Entry from MICCO Logistics (AED 365) at least 24 hours before departure.
- ✓ Cargo: Available for larger dogs or routes where cabin is not permitted.
Which airline for which dog size?
| Dog Size | Best Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small (≤8 kg) | Etihad in-cabin to AUH | Only if your final destination is Abu Dhabi or you can drive to Dubai |
| Small–Medium (any weight) | Emirates SkyCargo to DXB | Most common; direct flights from UK, EU, US, India, Australia |
| Large / XL | Emirates SkyCargo to DXB | Crate must be 10% larger than standard for restricted breeds |
| Snub-nose (any size) | Emirates SkyCargo (Nov–Apr only) | Summer embargo applies to all brachycephalic breeds |
We do not book flights for you and leave you to figure out the rest. We coordinate the cargo booking, confirm the rules in writing, and handle any changes if the airline updates its policy.
Summer Heat Embargoes and Brachycephalic Dogs
When dogs cannot fly (June–September)
Most airlines suspend or restrict live animal cargo when ground temperatures exceed 29.5°C (85°F). In Dubai, this means:
- Standard embargo: May to September (varies by airline and route)
- Peak restriction: June–August — most airlines will not accept dogs at all
- Morning flights: Even outside embargo, we book morning departures and arrivals to avoid midday heat
If your move falls during summer, your options are:
- Delay the dog's travel until October (most common)
- Ground transport to a cooler departure city, then fly
- Private pet charter (expensive, but available)
- Pet nanny escort service (limited routes)
We tell you this in your first conversation. We do not take bookings we cannot fulfil.
Special warning for snub-nose breeds
Brachycephalic (snub-nose) dogs are at higher risk during air travel. Their shortened airways make breathing harder in heat, stress, and low humidity.
Breeds in this category:
- English Bulldog, French Bulldog, American Bulldog
- Pug, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso
- Boston Terrier, Boxer (some airlines)
- Chow Chow, Shar Pei
- King Charles Spaniel (some airlines)
- Japanese Chin, Brussels Griffon
What this means for your dog:
- Emirates restricts these breeds to November–April only
- Some airlines require a larger crate (10% bigger than standard)
- A veterinary fitness certificate may be required in addition to standard documents
- We strongly recommend direct flights with no transit for brachycephalic dogs
⚠️ Dubai Pet Relocation Warning: We will not book a brachycephalic dog during summer months. The risk is too high, and no airline will accept them. If your move is urgent, we will discuss ground transport or alternative routing. Your dog's safety comes before our revenue.
What It Costs to Relocate a Dog to Dubai
Most relocation companies hide their prices. We do not. Here is what you can expect to pay, broken down by dog size. These are ranges — your exact quote depends on your origin country, route, and service level.
Small dogs (under 10 kg)
| MOCCAE import permit | ~200 |
| Veterinary (microchip, vaccines, health cert) | 800–1,500 |
| IATA crate (Series 200) | 500–700 |
| Cargo shipping (origin → Dubai) | 3,000–5,000 |
| Dubai Pet Relocation coordination fee | 1,500–3,500 |
| Total estimated range | 6,000–11,000 |
Medium dogs (10–25 kg)
| MOCCAE import permit | ~200 |
| Veterinary (microchip, vaccines, health cert) | 800–1,500 |
| IATA crate (Series 300) | 700–1,000 |
| Cargo shipping (origin → Dubai) | 4,000–7,000 |
| Dubai Pet Relocation coordination fee | 1,500–3,500 |
| Total estimated range | 7,200–13,200 |
Large dogs (25–40 kg)
| MOCCAE import permit | ~200 |
| Veterinary (microchip, vaccines, health cert) | 800–1,500 |
| IATA crate (Series 400) | 1,000–1,500 |
| Cargo shipping (origin → Dubai) | 5,000–9,000 |
| Dubai Pet Relocation coordination fee | 2,000–4,000 |
| Total estimated range | 9,000–16,200 |
Extra-large dogs (over 40 kg)
| MOCCAE import permit | ~200 |
| Veterinary (microchip, vaccines, health cert) | 800–1,500 |
| IATA crate (Series 500/700) | 1,500–2,000 |
| Cargo shipping (origin → Dubai) | 7,000–12,000 |
| Dubai Pet Relocation coordination fee | 2,500–5,000 |
| Total estimated range | 12,000–21,700 |
What is included in the Dubai Pet Relocation coordination fee
- Breed and route check
- MOCCAE import permit application
- Veterinary partner coordination
- IATA crate supply and sizing
- Cargo flight booking with the airline
- Pre-travel document audit (we check every document three times)
- Customs clearance at Dubai arrival
- Door-to-door transport or terminal pickup
- WhatsApp updates at every stage
- Rebooking at no extra coordination fee if the airline cancels or delays
What is NOT included
- – Rabies titer test (if required from high-risk countries): AED 500–1,200
- – Quarantine costs (only if your documentation is incomplete): AED 8,500+
- – Dubai Municipality registration after arrival: ~AED 10–60
- – Travel insurance (optional but recommended): AED 300–800
What Dog Owners Say About Dubai Pet Relocation
“I was terrified about putting Max on a plane. He's not just a dog — he's been with me through two job changes and a divorce. Dubai Pet Relocation sent me photos of him at every step: at the vet, in the crate, at check-in, on the tarmac, and the moment he came through customs. The quote was itemised. I knew exactly what I was paying for. When he arrived, he was calm, hydrated, and happy. I cannot recommend them enough.”
Sarah J.
Relocated from London to Dubai, March 2026
“Luna is a French Bulldog, so I knew summer travel was impossible. Dubai Pet Relocation told me this in the first WhatsApp message — no sugar-coating. We planned for a November flight. They arranged a crate 10% larger than standard for her breed, booked a direct flight with no transit, and sent me a video of her boarding. When she arrived at DXB, they had already cleared customs. She was in my arms 45 minutes after landing.”
David R.
Relocated from Paris to Dubai, November 2025
Official Sources
We coordinate the paperwork, but the rules are set by government and industry authorities. Always confirm the current requirements directly with the official sources.
Ready to Bring Your Dog to Dubai?
Your dog has been there for you. Now it's your turn to be there for them — even across continents.
At Dubai Pet Relocation, we make dog relocation clear, calm, and certain. We do not overpromise. We do not hide fees. We do not leave you guessing.
Send us a WhatsApp message with your dog's breed, weight, and origin country. We will check your breed against UAE regulations, confirm your route, and send you an itemised quote — usually within 15 minutes.
Get a dog relocation quoteOr if you are not ready for a quote yet, just send us a photo of your dog. We will tell you what they need.
Dubai Pet Relocation — Your dog's journey, made clear. Vetted relocation partners · MOCCAE import guidance · IATA-compliant · WhatsApp support