1. Pets

What documentation will I need from MOCCAE for my pet’s travels?

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Relocate your pet from U.A.E. with a guided set of dos and don’ts.

Relocations are a stressful process as is, especially more so when you have your pets to move, too. Pet relocation in Dubai can be quite a challenging task, especially if your pet is older, or a little pup and kitten. The first thing to look into would be securing proper paperwork from Ministry of Climate Change & Environment (MOCCAE). In order for your pet to enter or exit the U.A.E., you would require a series of documents from this entity – without the proper documentation, you may face delays, legal consequences or even be forced to leave your furry friend behind. This being said, with proper planning, the right documentation and guidance from an expert pet relocation expert, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience. Pet relocation from Dubai requires you to secure specific documents from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) – including the following essential documentation required for pet relocation from Dubai.

Image name: pet relocation from Dubai
Alt text: a happy dog running.

Essentials for an Export Permit

An export permit is a mandatory document required by MOCCAE for pet relocation. This needs to be applied for from MOCCAE at least seven working days prior to the date of travel. To apply for an export permit, you will need to submit the following documents:

A valid passport copy of the pet parent
A copy of your pet's vaccination card
A copy of your pet's microchip certificate
A health certificate from a registered healthcare provider i.e. your pet’s veterinarian

After submitting these, you will then need to fill out the form, make the payment and print out the receipt as a reference during your visit. Following this, you would need to secure your pet’s e-health certificate along with physically visiting MOCCAE (if applicable) to get your pet examined by an official MOCCAE vet.  

Get your pet’s health certificate

A health certificate is a document that certifies that your little friend is in good health and fit to travel. The health certificate should be issued by a registered veterinarian within 10 days before the date of travel. The certificate should indicate that your pet is free from any infectious diseases and has been vaccinated against rabies.

Image name: Pet relocation from Dubai2
Alt text: a dog getting checked by a pet vet

Consolidate your pet’s vaccination records

To relocate your pet from Dubai, you need to provide proof of vaccination against rabies. Your pet should have received the rabies vaccination at least 21 days before the date of travel. You need to provide a copy of the vaccination certificate, indicating the date of vaccination, the type of vaccine used, and the validity of the vaccine.

Ensure your furry friend has its microchip certificate

Your pet should have a microchip implanted, and the microchip number should be indicated on all documentation related to pet relocation. Ensure that the microchip number is correctly recorded in the pet's passport, vaccination card, and health certificate.

Essentials for an Import Permit

If you are relocating your pet from another country into the UAE, you will need to obtain an import permit from the relevant authorities in the destination country. Some countries may require additional documents, such as a blood test certificate. If you are relocating them into the U.A.E., you will need to apply for one from MOCCAE which can be done online or by your pet relocation agent. While there are several varying documents to consider during and prior to your pet’s travels like their health certificates, tests, parasite treatments, and so on, an import permit is an essential document to enter the U.A.E. without which your pet cannot land here. 

An import permit essentially takes anywhere between 1 – 2 business days however it is highly recommended for you to begin this process 18 – 20 days prior to your travels. For all those that aren’t aware, an import permit is valid for 30 days post issuance.

In case of you being unsure or not knowing who you can go with, it is always advised to get an expert pet relocation agent in the departing country and arrival location to step in and assist you with all of the documentation, paperwork, flight routes, customs and so on.

So now you know that Pet relocation in Dubai requires proper planning and specific documentation that you need to secure from MOCCAE, ensure that you plan well in advance and submit all the required documents on time to avoid any delays or complications. Make this process a whole lot simpler by getting an expert on board to handle it all for you. With the right documentation and preparation, you can ensure a safe and stress-free relocation for you and your furry friend.

Follow the guide for pet relocation from Dubai and ensure your whole relocation journey is an absolute breeze!