Traveling with Pets from India to Dubai
Introduction: Key Requirements for Pet Travel to Dubai
Taking your pet from India to Dubai involves strict documentation, airline rules, and UAE import regulations. Missing even one step can lead to quarantine or denied entry.
This guide covers updated 2024 rules for dogs and cats, including:
✔ Dubai’s pet import policy
✔ Best pet-friendly airlines
✔ Step-by-step paperwork process
1. Is Your Pet Eligible to Enter Dubai?
**✅ Allowed Pets**
- Dogs (except banned breeds like Pitbulls)
- Cats
- Ferrets & pet birds (special rules apply)
🚫 Restricted Breeds
Dubai bans these dogs (even as cargo):
❌ American Pit Bull
❌ Japanese Tosa
❌ Dogo Argentino
💡 Note: Emotional support animals (ESAs) do not get exemptions—they follow standard pet rules.
2. Step-by-Step Process (2024 Rules)
📋 Step 1: Microchipping (Must Be First!)
- ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip (mandatory).
- Where to implant?Mumbai: PetVets, BandraDelhi: PetPals, Vasant KunjBangalore: Cessna Lifeline
💉 Step 2: Vaccinations & Blood Tests
| Requirement | Timeline |
| Rabies vaccine | At least 21 days before travel |
| DHPPiL (dogs) / FVRCP (cats) | Up-to-date |
| RNATT test (rabies antibody) | 30+ days after rabies shot |
📌 Important: Blood samples must go to EU-approved labs (e.g., LABOKLIN Germany).
📑 Step 3: Export Documentation
- Health Certificate – Issued by Govt. Veterinary Officer (valid 10 days).
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) – From Animal Quarantine, Mumbai/Delhi.
- Import Permit – Apply via Dubai Municipality’s online portal (takes 3-5 days).
**✈️ Step 4: Booking Pet Travel**
Best Pet-Friendly Airlines (2024)
| Airline | In-Cabin? | Cargo Cost (₹) |
| Emirates | No | 25,000–50,000 |
| Lufthansa | Yes (<8kg) | 35,000–60,000 |
| Air India | No | 20,000–45,000 |
💡 Tip: Book early—only 2 pets per flight are allowed in cargo.
3. Arrival in Dubai – What to Expect?
- Customs Inspection: Pets go to Dubai Animal Quarantine (DQA) at airport.
- Clearance Time: 4–8 hours if paperwork is perfect.
- Quarantine: None if all rules are met (otherwise, 7–14 days).
4. Cost Breakdown (From Mumbai to Dubai)
| Expense | Cost (₹) |
| Microchip | 2,500 |
| RNATT Test | 8,000 |
| Health Certificate | 1,500 |
| Airline Cargo | 30,000 |
| Total | ~42,000+ |
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using non-EU labs for RNATT (Dubai rejects Indian lab reports).
❌ Missing the 10-day validity on health certificates.
❌ Not crate-training pets before travel (causes stress).
6. Pet Relocation Services (Recommended)
For hassle-free moves:
- PetRelocate India (Mumbai) – Handles full paperwork & flights.
- AirPets International (Delhi) – Specializes in Gulf-bound pets.
Conclusion: Start Early, Avoid Delays!
Begin preparations 3–4 months before travel. Key priorities:
✅ Microchip first
✅ RNATT test timing
✅ Airline crate training
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2025.04.11
