Updated June 2026
Dubai → United StatesDubai to USA Pet Relocation — Exporting Your Pet to America
Direct Emirates flights and clear CDC rules. We handle CDC Dog Import forms, USDA APHIS health certificates, and US customs.
US Import Rules for Pets from Dubai
The USA has federal requirements (CDC and USDA APHIS) and state-level rules. Most states do not require quarantine if federal documents are correct. Here is what you need to know for dogs and cats travelling from Dubai.
CDC Dog Import Rules
The CDC classifies the UAE as a high-risk country for dog rabies. All dogs entering the USA from Dubai must have:
- Valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at or after 12 weeks of age, at least 28 days before arrival)
- ISO-compliant microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination
- CDC Dog Import Form completed online (free, required before travel)
- Dog must appear healthy on arrival
USDA APHIS Health Certificate
A health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited UAE veterinarian is required for both dogs and cats. The certificate must:
- Be issued within 10 days of travel
- Include microchip number, vaccination details, and health examination results
- Be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian (not all UAE vets hold this accreditation)
- Be presented at US CBP inspection on arrival
Cat Import Requirements
The CDC does not require rabies vaccination for cats entering the USA. However, Dubai Pet Relocation recommends:
- Rabies vaccination (recommended, not federally required)
- USDA APHIS health certificate within 10 days of travel
- ISO-compliant microchip
- Check state-specific rules (some states require rabies cert for cats)
CDC Dog Import Form & Rabies Certificate
Since 2023, the CDC requires all dogs entering the USA from high-risk rabies countries to complete a Dog Import Form online. This is a free, mandatory form that must be submitted before travel. Dubai Pet Relocation completes this form on your behalf as part of our service.
1. CDC Dog Import Form
A free online form submitted via the CDC website. It requires the dog's microchip number, rabies certificate details, owner information, and travel dates. The form generates a receipt that must be printed and carried during travel. Dubai Pet Relocation completes and submits this form for you.
2. Rabies Vaccination Certificate
Must be issued by a licensed veterinarian, show the vaccine was administered at or after 12 weeks of age, and be at least 28 days old at the time of US arrival. The certificate must include the microchip number, vaccine manufacturer, product name, batch number, and date of administration. Annual or 3-year vaccines are both accepted if still valid.
3. Microchip Requirements
An ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip is required. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is administered. If the rabies vaccine was given before microchipping, the vaccination must be repeated after the microchip is implanted. The microchip number must be recorded on all documents: health certificate, rabies certificate, and CDC Dog Import Form.
4. Health on Arrival
Dogs must appear healthy on arrival. If a dog shows signs of illness at the US port of entry, CBP may require additional veterinary examination or quarantine at the owner's expense. Dubai Pet Relocation schedules a pre-travel health check 2–3 days before departure to ensure your dog is in optimal condition for the flight.
Important Notes for US-Bound Pets
- The CDC Dog Import Form is free but mandatory. Airlines will not board a dog from a high-risk country without the CDC receipt. Dubai Pet Relocation submits this form and prints the receipt for your travel folder.
- Not all UAE veterinarians are USDA-accredited. Only an accredited vet can issue the APHIS health certificate. Dubai Pet Relocation works exclusively with accredited veterinarians in Dubai to ensure your certificate is valid.
- Puppies under 6 months are generally not permitted under CDC rules unless they meet specific exemption criteria. Contact Dubai Pet Relocation before planning travel with a young puppy.
- Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Persian cats) face summer travel restrictions on most airlines (May–September). Book early morning flights or consider travel outside peak summer months.
- Some US states have additional requirements. Hawaii and Guam require quarantine or advanced rabies testing. California, Florida, and New York have veterinary inspection rules. Dubai Pet Relocation checks your specific destination state before booking.
- Direct flights from Dubai to the US are 12–16 hours. Dubai Pet Relocation ensures your pet has a water container attached to the crate, absorbent bedding, and a pre-flight acclimatisation period to reduce travel stress.
Pro tip: Complete the CDC Dog Import Form at least 2 days before travel. While the form is instant, having it ready early allows Dubai Pet Relocation to verify all details match your rabies certificate and health certificate before departure.
Airlines Flying Pets from Dubai to the USA
Emirates dominates the Dubai–USA route with direct flights to multiple hubs. United, Delta, and American also offer cargo services via their global networks. Dubai Pet Relocation books cargo space on all major carriers.
Emirates (EK)
Emirates SkyCargo — Direct Flights
Emirates is the primary carrier for Dubai–USA pet cargo, offering direct flights to all major US hubs. Their SkyCargo Live programme provides dedicated animal handling, climate-controlled holds, and priority offloading.
- Direct flights: JFK (New York), LAX (Los Angeles), ORD (Chicago), IAD (Washington DC), SFO (San Francisco), BOS (Boston), IAH (Houston), MIA (Miami)
- Climate-controlled cargo hold (16–18°C)
- A380 and B777 large-capacity cargo holds
- Priority offloading and dedicated animal staff at DXB
- Best for large dogs and direct routes
Emirates is the preferred carrier for most Dubai–USA relocations due to direct routes, large cargo capacity, and extensive experience with live animal transport. Flight times are 12–16 hours depending on the destination.
United, Delta & American
Multi-Leg Cargo Services
United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines operate pet cargo services from Dubai to the USA, typically via European hubs (Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London) or Asian hubs (Tokyo, Seoul). These are useful for destinations not served by Emirates direct flights.
- Coverage of secondary US cities (Seattle, Denver, Atlanta, Dallas)
- Established pet cargo programmes with IATA-compliant protocols
- Climate-controlled transfers at hub airports
- May be more cost-effective for certain routes
- Longer total travel time due to connections
Multi-leg routes add complexity but may be necessary for smaller US airports. Dubai Pet Relocation books all legs, ensures the pet is transferred correctly at each hub, and tracks the shipment throughout the journey.
Summer Travel Restrictions (May – September)
All airlines impose restrictions on brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds during the summer months. This includes Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Persian cats, and similar breeds. The restriction is due to the risk of heat stress during ground handling in Dubai's extreme temperatures (40–50°C). Dubai Pet Relocation books early morning flights (departing before 9 AM) and provides ventilated crates with water dispensers to mitigate risk. For non-brachycephalic breeds, cargo holds remain climate-controlled year-round and are safe for travel. During peak season (July–August and December), cargo space fills up 3–4 weeks in advance for popular routes like DXB–JFK and DXB–LAX.
Dubai Pet Relocation recommends booking your pet's flight as soon as the health certificate is issued. For summer travel, we also offer pre-flight boarding in a climate-controlled facility to ensure your pet is well-rested before departure.
State-Specific US Pet Import Rules
While most US states have no quarantine, a few have specific rules that pet owners must know. Dubai Pet Relocation verifies your destination state's requirements before booking.
Hawaii
Hawaii is rabies-free and has the strictest pet import rules in the USA. Dogs and cats must complete one of two programmes:
- 5-Day-or-Less Quarantine: Requires rabies vaccination, microchip, and a negative FAVN rabies titer test with a 120-day waiting period before arrival. If done correctly, the pet is released after a short inspection.
- Full 120-Day Quarantine: If the titer test is not completed in time, the pet must be quarantined for 120 days at a state facility in Hawaii (cost: approximately USD 1,000–1,500).
Dubai Pet Relocation coordinates Hawaii's complex requirements, including FAVN titer testing at a USDA-approved lab and the 120-day advance planning timeline. Start the Hawaii process at least 5 months before travel.
Guam
Guam has similar rules to Hawaii. Dogs and cats must have a rabies vaccination, microchip, and a negative FAVN titer test with a 120-day waiting period before arrival. If the requirements are not met, the pet enters a quarantine facility.
Dubai Pet Relocation coordinates with Guam's Department of Agriculture and the USDA to ensure all documentation is submitted in advance. The 120-day waiting period is non-negotiable, so early planning is essential.
California, New York, Florida
These states have additional veterinary inspection requirements or mandatory rabies vaccination rules for cats and dogs. While there is no quarantine, the state may require:
- A valid rabies certificate for all dogs and cats
- Health certificate endorsed by a state veterinarian (in some cases)
- Registration with a local veterinarian within 30 days of arrival
Dubai Pet Relocation verifies your specific destination state's requirements before travel and provides a checklist of post-arrival actions for your state.
All Other States (No Quarantine)
For the vast majority of US states — including Texas, Illinois, Washington, Georgia, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Arizona, Oregon, North Carolina, and all others — there is no quarantine for pets arriving from Dubai if the federal CDC and USDA requirements are met. The pet is cleared at the port of entry (airport) by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and can go directly to your home. Dubai Pet Relocation provides a list of all states with no additional requirements and helps you plan ground transport from the airport to your final destination. We also recommend a post-arrival veterinary check-up within 48 hours to ensure your pet has recovered well from the flight.
Dubai to USA Cost Breakdown
Transparent pricing for relocating a single pet from Dubai to the USA. Costs vary by pet size, destination airport, and airline choice. Contact Dubai Pet Relocation for a precise quote.
| Service Item | Small Pet (Cat / Small Dog) | Medium Dog | Large Dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinary Health Check & Verification | AED 300–600 | AED 400–700 | AED 500–800 |
| USDA APHIS Health Certificate | AED 500–1,000 | AED 500–1,000 | AED 500–1,200 |
| CDC Dog Import Form | Free | Free | Free |
| Air Cargo (DXB → JFK/LAX/ORD, one way) | AED 5,000–7,500 | AED 7,000–10,000 | AED 10,000–14,000 |
| IATA-Approved Travel Crate | AED 300–600 | AED 500–1,000 | AED 900–1,800 |
| US CBP Inspection & Customs | AED 500–1,200 | AED 700–1,500 | AED 1,000–2,000 |
| Optional: Dubai Pet Relocation Door-to-Door (US ground transport) | AED 2,000–3,500 | AED 2,500–4,000 | AED 3,000–5,000 |
| Hawaii/Guam Additional (if applicable) | AED 3,000–6,000 | AED 3,500–7,000 | AED 4,000–8,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost (Mainland USA) | AED 7,000–12,000 | AED 10,000–16,000 | AED 14,000–22,000 |
* Prices are estimates in AED and may vary by airline, destination, season, and pet dimensions. Air cargo rates fluctuate and are typically higher in peak travel months (July–August, December). USD conversion is approximate at 1 USD = 3.67 AED. Hawaii and Guam costs include the FAVN titer test, 120-day waiting period coordination, and quarantine fees. Contact Dubai Pet Relocation for a fixed quote based on your pet's exact weight, breed, and destination airport. Multiple pets may qualify for a 10–15% discount on combined services.
Dubai to USA Timeline
A typical export from Dubai to the USA takes 2–4 weeks for documentation plus 1–2 days for travel. Here is the exact week-by-week process Dubai Pet Relocation manages for you.
Document Review & Microchip Check
Dubai Pet Relocation reviews your pet's existing microchip, vaccination records, and passport. If the rabies vaccine is not current or the microchip is not ISO-compliant, we arrange a veterinary visit immediately. We also verify your destination state's specific rules. For Hawaii or Guam, we begin the FAVN titer test process immediately.
Health Certificate & CDC Form
We schedule the USDA APHIS health certificate examination with an accredited UAE veterinarian. We complete and submit the CDC Dog Import Form online (free) and print the receipt. We also book cargo space with Emirates, United, Delta, or American Airlines and source the correct IATA-compliant crate.
Final Prep & Pre-Flight Check
The health certificate is issued within 10 days of travel. Dubai Pet Relocation reviews all documents for accuracy, confirms the microchip is readable, and ensures the crate meets airline and IATA standards. We deliver the crate for your pet to acclimatise. A pre-flight health check is scheduled 2–3 days before departure.
Departure from Dubai & Arrival in the USA
Your pet is checked in at the Emirates, United, Delta, or American Airlines cargo terminal at DXB. After a 12–16 hour direct flight, Dubai Pet Relocation's US partner meets your pet at JFK, LAX, ORD, IAD, SFO, or your arrival airport. They handle CBP inspection, document verification, and deliver your pet to your home or a local boarding facility.
What Dubai Pet Relocation Handles for Dubai to USA
Dubai Pet Relocation is a full-service pet relocation coordination service. We manage every detail of your pet's journey from Dubai to the USA, so you can focus on your own move.
CDC Dog Import Form
We complete and submit the free CDC Dog Import Form online, verify all details against your rabies certificate, and print the receipt for your travel folder.
Health Certificate
We schedule the USDA APHIS health certificate with an accredited UAE veterinarian, review the certificate for accuracy, and ensure it meets US entry requirements.
Flight Booking
We book cargo space with Emirates, United, Delta, or American Airlines, source the correct IATA-compliant crate, and coordinate with the airline's animal handling team.
US Customs & CBP
Our US partner meets your pet at the arrival airport, handles CBP inspection, document verification, microchip scanning, and ensures smooth clearance.
Ground Transport
We arrange ground transport from the US airport to your home, hotel, or boarding facility. Climate-controlled vehicles and experienced pet handlers available.
24/7 Support
We provide WhatsApp updates at every step, a 24/7 emergency contact during travel days, and post-arrival guidance on US veterinary registration and care.
Dubai to USA Pet Relocation FAQs
What are the CDC requirements for importing a dog from Dubai to the USA?
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires all dogs imported into the USA from high-risk rabies countries (including the UAE) to have: (1) a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, showing the vaccine was administered at or after 12 weeks of age and at least 28 days before arrival; (2) an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before the rabies vaccination; (3) a CDC Dog Import Form completed online (free, required for all dogs entering from high-risk countries). The form must be submitted online before travel and the receipt printed for airline and border inspection. Dogs must appear healthy on arrival. Puppies under 6 months are generally not allowed unless they meet specific CDC exemption criteria.
Do cats need a rabies vaccination to enter the USA from Dubai?
The CDC does not require rabies vaccination for cats entering the USA from any country. However, the USDA APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) and individual state regulations may require a rabies certificate for cats. Some states, such as California and New York, strongly recommend or require rabies vaccination for all cats. Dubai Pet Relocation recommends vaccinating your cat against rabies before travel and carrying the vaccination certificate, even if not strictly required by federal law. This protects your cat and avoids any issues at state-level veterinary inspections.
What is the USDA APHIS health certificate for pets entering the USA?
A USDA APHIS health certificate is a document issued by an accredited veterinarian in the origin country (the UAE) certifying that the pet is healthy and free from contagious diseases. For pets travelling from Dubai to the USA, a UAE-licensed veterinarian can issue the health certificate if they are accredited by the USDA. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel for dogs and cats. It includes the pet's identification details, vaccination records, health examination results, and the veterinarian's accreditation number. Dubai Pet Relocation works with USDA-accredited veterinarians in Dubai to ensure the health certificate meets US entry requirements. The certificate is presented at the US port of entry (CBP inspection) and may be required by state authorities upon arrival.
Which airlines fly pets from Dubai to the USA?
Emirates (EK) is the primary carrier for pet cargo from Dubai to the USA, with direct flights to New York JFK, Los Angeles LAX, Chicago ORD, Washington Dulles IAD, San Francisco SFO, Boston BOS, and Houston IAH. United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines also operate cargo services from Dubai to major US hubs via their European or Asian hubs. For in-cabin travel, small pets (under 8kg including carrier) may be permitted on some carriers depending on the route and aircraft type. However, most long-haul Dubai–USA flights require pets to travel as cargo due to the duration (12–16 hours). Dubai Pet Relocation books cargo space on all major carriers and recommends the best airline based on your destination, pet size, and season.
How long does it take to relocate a pet from Dubai to the USA?
The minimum timeline is 2–4 weeks for documentation plus 1–2 days for travel. Week 1: microchip verification and rabies vaccination check (if already valid, this step is instant). Week 2: schedule the USDA APHIS health certificate examination with an accredited UAE veterinarian, complete the CDC Dog Import Form online, and book cargo space. Week 3: final health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, airline documentation review, and crate fitting. Week 4: travel day. For puppies needing their first rabies vaccination, add 28 days (minimum age 12 weeks + 28-day wait). For high-risk breeds or complex cases, allow extra time. Dubai Pet Relocation handles all steps in parallel to minimise delays.
How much does it cost to relocate a pet from Dubai to the USA?
For a single pet, total costs typically range from AED 7,000 to AED 20,000 (USD 1,900–5,400). This includes: veterinary verification (microchip check + health exam ~AED 300–800), USDA APHIS health certificate (AED 500–1,200), CDC Dog Import Form (free, but Dubai Pet Relocation assists with completion), IATA-approved travel crate (AED 300–1,800), air cargo freight DXB → USA (AED 5,000–12,000 depending on destination, pet size, and crate weight), US customs and CBP inspection (AED 500–1,500), and optional Dubai Pet Relocation door-to-door service including ground transport at destination (AED 2,000–4,000). Direct flights to JFK and LAX are typically cheaper than multi-leg routes to smaller airports. Multiple pets may qualify for discounted rates on combined services. Brachycephalic breeds may incur additional airline fees or require ventilated crates.
Are there state-specific rules for pets entering the USA?
Yes. While CDC and USDA APHIS set federal rules, individual states have their own requirements. Most states require a valid rabies certificate and health certificate but do not impose quarantine. However, Hawaii and Guam have strict quarantine rules: Hawaii requires a rabies vaccination, microchip, and a negative rabies titer test (FAVN) with a 120-day waiting period, or a 5-day-or-less quarantine programme if all requirements are met in advance. Guam has a similar quarantine programme. Some states (e.g., California, Florida, New York) have additional veterinary inspection requirements for certain diseases. Dubai Pet Relocation advises on state-specific rules for your destination and coordinates with local veterinarians or quarantine facilities if needed. For most mainland states (Texas, Illinois, Georgia, Washington, etc.), there is no quarantine if federal documents are correct.
What does Dubai Pet Relocation handle for a Dubai to USA pet relocation?
Dubai Pet Relocation manages the entire Dubai to USA pet relocation process. We handle: (1) CDC Dog Import Form completion and submission (free online form, but we ensure accuracy); (2) health certificate scheduling with a USDA-accredited UAE veterinarian; (3) document review and airline compliance check; (4) IATA-compliant crate sourcing and fitting; (5) flight booking with Emirates, United, Delta, or American Airlines; (6) pre-flight veterinary health check; (7) DXB cargo check-in and customs clearance; (8) US CBP (Customs and Border Protection) inspection coordination at JFK, LAX, ORD, IAD, SFO, or your arrival airport; (9) ground transport from the US airport to your home or boarding facility; (10) state-specific requirement verification and post-arrival veterinary guidance. We provide WhatsApp updates at every step and a 24/7 emergency contact during travel days.
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 Export Your Pet from Dubai to the USA?
Dubai Pet Relocation has relocated hundreds of pets from Dubai to New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and cities across America. We handle the CDC forms, USDA health certificates, flight booking, and US customs so you can focus on your move.