Traveling with a pet can be an exciting adventure, but it also involves careful planning and preparation, especially when visiting a destination like Dubai. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Dubai, has specific regulations regarding the entry of pets to ensure the health and safety of both animals and residents. In this article, we will explore the essential documents and vaccinations required for pets before arriving in Dubai.
Microchip Identification:
Before traveling to Dubai, it is mandatory for all pets to be microchipped with an ISO-standard microchip. The microchip should be implanted prior to any required vaccinations and should be registered with your contact information in your pets passport. This microchip will serve as a permanent identification for your pet.
Vaccination Certificate:
Obtaining a vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian is crucial for traveling with your pet. The certificate should include details about the vaccination, including the manufacturer, batch number, date of administration, and validity. It is advisable to carry a printed copy of this certificate with you while traveling.
List of vaccinations:
Dogs
- Rabies, a valid vaccination applied according to instructions of vaccine manufacturer, initial dose should not be applied before 12 weeks of animal age (injected at least 21 days before arrival and no longer than 1 year).
- Canine Distemper Virus (CDV).
- Canine Parvo Virus.
- Infectious Canine Hepatitis.
- Leptospirosis.
Cats
- Rabies, a valid vaccination applied according to instructions of vaccine manufacturer, initial dose should not be applied before 12 weeks of animal age (injected at least 21 days before arrival and no longer than 1 year).
- Feline Pan Leukcopenia.
- Feline Rhinotracheitis.
- Feline Calicivirus
Antibody Titration Test (Titer test)
For those importing pets from high-risk countries, there's an additional requirement: the Rabies Antibody Titration Test, also known as the Titer test. This test is conducted to ensure that the pet has a sufficient immune response to the rabies vaccination, which is a critical aspect of pet health and safety in Dubai.
This test is done by drawing a blood sample from your pet, which is then sent to a laboratory accredited by the competent authorities in the country of export. The certificate must include the date of sampling, the date and method of examination, stating that the animals were subjected to the antibody titration test before shipping.
There are two different scenarios to keep in mind:
- If your pet is getting its rabies vaccination for the first time or if there has been a discontinuity in the vaccination schedule, a period of not less than 21 days must elapse from the vaccination against Rabies before conducting the Titer test.
- If your pet has a valid booster vaccination, there's no requirement for a 21-day interval after vaccination. The Titer test can be done immediately.
The test result must indicate that the animal's rabies antibody level is not less than 0.5 IU/ml. The Rabies Testing Certificate can be replaced by recording the examination results in the health certificate mentioned previously.
It's also important to note that if your pet is being imported from a low-risk country, the Titer test may not be required. Low-risk countries include: Australia, Austria, Andorra, Barbados, Bahamas, Bahrain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, French Polynesia, Falkland Islands, Germany, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Mauritius, Malta, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Vanuatu, Qatar, Netherlands, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Palau, Latvia, Albania, Croatia, Maldives, Spain (excluding Melilla), Cyprus, Korea, Montenegro, Seychelles, Suriname, Micronesia, Greece, Marshall Islands. Make sure to look at the latest list of low-risk countries on MOCCAE's official website in case the list gets updated.
Treatments 10 days before shipment (dogs and cats):
- Anti-external parasites using (Fipronil or Permethrin)
- Deworming (Anthelmintic) using (Praziquantel)
Export Health Certificate:
In addition to the vaccination certificate, a veterinary health certificate is required, which in most cases is issued by the government in your departing country. This certificate confirms that your pet is in good health and free from any contagious diseases. The health certificate should be issued within 10 days prior to travel and must be signed and stamped by an accredited veterinarian.
Import Permit:
Before bringing your pet to Dubai, you must obtain an import permit from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). The import permit requires submitting the necessary documents, including vaccination certificates and health certificates. Ensure you start the application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for approval. The import permit is also only valid for 30 days, so it is not allowed to import pets with an expired import permit
Release permit:
Upon landing in Dubai a release document must be issued. You can request this at MOCCAE together with the following documents:
- Customs Declaration or Bill of Lading, which confirms the delivery details of your.
- All the above mentioned documents together with a copy of your own ID.
Conclusion:
Traveling with a pet to Dubai requires careful attention to the necessary documents and vaccinations. Microchipping your pet, ensuring they are vaccinated against rabies, and obtaining a health certificate are essential steps. Remember to obtain the required import permit MOCCAE before traveling. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry for your beloved pet into Dubai, while also complying with the local regulations and ensuring their well-being during the journey.
