Dubai Bound: Your Essential Guide to Taking Your Dog for a Work Stint in the UAE

Dreaming of swapping the UK drizzle for the Dubai sunshine? Temporary work contracts in the UAE are a huge opportunity, and thankfully, bringing your dog with you is completely feasible, provided you adhere to the UAE’s strict, non-negotiable import regulations.

Unlike a short holiday, a longer temporary stay requires full compliance with permanent residency rules. Here is the essential checklist and planning timeline to ensure your furry co-worker travels safely and legally to the Emirate.

1. The Critical Documentation Timeline (Start Now!)

The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) dictates the requirements, and precise timing is everything. Start the following steps 2-3 months before your intended travel date:

Core Health Requirements

Microchip First: Your dog must have a permanent, 15-digit ISO-compatible microchip implanted before any vaccinations.
Rabies Vaccination: Must be up-to-date and administered at least 21 days before the flight date, but no more than 12 months prior.
Other Mandatory Vaccines (Dogs): Your dog must be vaccinated against Canine Distemper, Parvovirus, Infectious Canine Hepatitis, and Leptospirosis (DHPP and Lepto). These must be valid at the time of entry.
No Titer Test Required: As the UK is a rabies-low-risk country, a Rabies Antibody Titre Test is generally not required for direct travel.

Permits and Certificates

Import Permit (The Golden Ticket): You must obtain an Import Permit from the MOCCAE online before your pet travels. This permit is typically valid for 30–90 days, so time its issue date carefully.
Export Health Certificate (EHC): Within 24 hours of departure, an Official Veterinarian (OV) in the UK must examine your dog, administer necessary endo and ectoparasite treatments, and sign the official UK Export Health Certificate (EHC). This document is essential for customs clearance in Dubai.

2. Travel Logistics: The Manifest Cargo Rule

Unlike travel within the EU, pets travelling to the UAE from the UK must travel as Manifest Cargo.

No Cabin Travel: Your dog will travel in a temperature-controlled, pressurised cargo hold, not in the passenger cabin or as excess baggage.
IATA-Approved Crate: Your dog’s travel kennel must meet strict International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines. It must be large enough for your dog to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the sides or roof.
Airline Choice: Reputable airlines like Emirates and British Airways offer established pet transport services to Dubai (DXB).

3. Arrival and Settling In (Climate and Safety)

Upon arrival in Dubai, your dog will be checked by a MOCCAE veterinarian. If all documentation is correct, your dog will be released, as no quarantine is required for pets arriving from the UK with correct paperwork.

Climate Adjustment: Dubai’s heat is the biggest non-paperwork concern. Always walk your dog in the early morning or late evening, use paw protection against hot pavements, and ensure air conditioning is maintained in your accommodation.
Breed Restrictions: Be aware that the UAE strictly prohibits the import of several dog breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Japanese Tosa, Bullmastiffs, etc.). Check the MOCCAE’s current banned list well in advance.

Your Passport for Pets Advantage

Navigating the MOCCAE system, timing the EHC, and coordinating the Manifest Cargo booking can be complex, especially while managing your own relocation.

We specialise in the UK-to-UAE route, handling all the stringent veterinary procedures, MOCCAE permits, and flight logistics on your behalf. Focus on your new work assignment—we’ll ensure your best friend is safe and sound beside you in Dubai.

Ready to start planning your dog's Dubai adventure? Contact us today for a bespoke travel quote and timeline assessment.