Travelling with your pet on Emirates requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the airline’s requirements. Petair can manage all paperwork, crates, and logistics so your pet’s journey is smooth and fully compliant.
In-Cabin Travel
- Only falcons on certain Dubai to Pakistan routes and certified guide dogs are allowed in the cabin.
- All other pets including small dogs and cats must travel in the cargo hold.
Cargo
When pets are transported in cargo, they must be transported via Emirates SkyCargo.
- Facilities: Temperature controlled and pressurised cargo hold, animal care team, and veterinary support available 24/7 in Dubai.
- Transit care: Minimum connection time of 6 hours, pets loaded last and unloaded first.
Restricted Breeds and Age Limits
- Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, and Scottish Folds are not accepted on SkyCargo except under specific winter-season conditions from November to April.
- Minimum age for dogs and cats is 15 weeks or 27 weeks if travelling from a high-risk rabies country.
- Always check if the origin and destination countries allow your pet’s breed.
Health Requirements and Forms
- Vet-issued health certificate within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination, microchip, and any additional import/export documents required by the destination country.
- Service animals may require additional forms for certain destinations such as the USA.
Emirates Pet Travel Options
| Scenario | Method | Rules |
| Falcon (specific routes) or guide dog | In-Cabin | Only in certain cases |
| Dogs, cats, birds under 17 h, within size | Checked Baggage | Extra fees apply, must meet crate limits |
| Long flights, oversize crate, solo travel | SkyCargo | Advance booking, enhanced animal care in transit |
| Snub-nosed breeds | Restricted | Usually not accepted except in cooler months |
| All scenarios | Documentation | Health certificate, import forms, vaccination records |
Petair can arrange every detail of your pet’s travel with Emirates including crate supply, documentation, airline booking, and coordination with animal care teams. Contact us today to ensure your pet travels safely, comfortably, and fully in line with Emirates’ 2025 policies.
