Taking Cats to The UAE

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The United Arab Emirates is a very common destination for cats to be transported from the UK, as more and more people are moving out there. Often, cats are flown to either Dubai or Abu Dhabi, and then transported by road to their final destination. PetAir UK can use either British Airways or Emirates to fly your cat directly to Dubai, and Etihad or British Airways to get your cat to Abu Dhabi.

We’ve been flying cats all over the world since 2004, and so we are extremely confident in offering the best service possible for you. PetAir UK is owned and run by a team packed with fully qualified veterinary surgeons, animal healthcare professionals and veterinary nurses. So, although flying your cat to the UAE is slightly more complex than if you were to go to the USA, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Below is a basic step-by-step guide on what needs to be prepared in order for your cat to get an import permit and go to the UAE.

If you have any questions or want any more information, please contact us.

Microchip Certificate – Your cat must be microchipped when they are at least 3 months old.
Vaccinations – A vaccination card is required for your cat, clearly showing your cat’s up-to-date vaccinations for rabies, and the FVRCP combined feline vaccine for other infectious diseases. The rabies vaccination must be done at least 21 days before PetAir UK can apply for the import permit (and no more than one year prior to travel). The vaccination card will be submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Water, the permit will then be issued, which normally takes around 7-10 days.
DEFRA Export Certificate – This is a health certificate for your cat that needs to be completed by a government vet the day before they fly. It involves a veterinary check to ensure that your cat is fit to travel and does not have any diseases before flying to the UAE. They will need to be treated against ticks and tapeworms at this appointment too. These documents will be checked by the government vets when your cat lands in the Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

When your cat(s) land in either Abu Dhabi or Dubai, they will be taken into an animal handling facility while they, and the paperwork, are checked. When collecting your cat, you must pay fees for local handling, veterinary checks and customs. As this process can sometimes be quite stressful for owners, a lot of people use agents to oversee and complete the clearance, and then bring the pets to their new home in the UAE. We understand that many people may not be comfortable with leaving their beloved cat with someone else, though.

There’s lots to take in when it comes to UAE cat travel. If this all seems a bit much to take in, do remember that PetAir UK are able to help with every part of the move, to take the stress away from you.

Please call our experts on 01725 551124 for more information or request a quote today!

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