A dog is a wonderful addition to any family, but owning a dog in some cities in the world is a little more challenging than others. Though Dubai has complicated and restrictive pet laws, there are many happy pet parents in the city who can vouch for the city’s changing attitudes towards dogs.

When you bring your doggie to Dubai, there are specific rules you must follow; failure to follow these rules could set you back by a tidy amount. We have compiled a list of the most important pet rules in Dubai, which every pet parent must follow.

Register and vaccinate your dog

It is mandatory in Dubai and the rest of UAE for all dogs to be registered and vaccinated. Every dog must have a microchip and up-to-date vaccinations. The registrations are valid for a year, and you have to re-register your pet every year. Dubai Municipality also requires you to renew your pet’s vaccinations (DHLPPI and rabies for dogs, flu/enteritis and rabies for cats) every year. If your dog is not vaccinated or registered, you will be given a three-day notice to comply. Failure to do so will attract a fine of AED 200, and your dog could be confiscated by the authorities.

Use a lead and mask in public

All dogs must compulsorily be leashed and masked in public. Walking dogs off-lead in Dubai is illegal, and large breeds need to be muzzled in public. There are several dog-friendly areas in Dubai to exercise your dog, but you are required to keep your dog on a lead at all times or be prepared to fork out AED 200 in fine for a first-time offence and more if it is more than once.

Make sure your dog is not on the prohibited breeds list

Dubai has a list of prohibited breeds that are not allowed in the country. Banned breeds include all types of Pit Bulls, Japanese Tosa, Wolf-Dog Hybrids, all types of Mastiffs, Rottweilers, American Bully, American Staffordshire Terriers, Doberman Pinscher, Chow Chow, Boxer, and Perro de Presa Canario. Banned breeds will be confiscated immediately and sent to a no-kill shelter before being re-homed in different countries.

Make sure your apartment is pet-friendly

Dogs can be kept at home only if your land-owners give you approval. There are several pet-friendly apartments and communities in Dubai, however not all buildings accept pets as residents. It helps to make sure your apartment is pet-friendly; failure to present a signed letter of approval could result in a significant fine.

Don’t take your dog to areas where pets are prohibited

Dubai has some fabulous indoor dog parks and doggie daycares, however, much of Dubai’s public spaces are off-limits for your dog. Most parks, shopping malls, and beaches have a no pet policy, and such public areas have clear signs stating that dogs are not allowed. Dogs are not allowed on public transport, taxis, buses, or the Metro. Popular places like Dubai Marina’s promenade and the Jumeirah Beach Residence are also no pet zones.

Take your dog for a walk to the Jebel Ali Beach, Al Warqa, and the beach near Dubai College. The Emaar development, the Springs, Arabian Ranches, and The Greens are some of Dubai’s leading pet-friendly developments.

Don’t let your dog harm other people and property

This is one of the most important pet rules in Dubai; keep your dog restrained and make sure he does not attack people or destroy property. If your dog happens to bite or attack someone you will be slapped with a fine of AED 5000. You will have to give a written undertaking that the incident will not repeat, and if it does, your dog will be confiscated. Most trained dogs do not attack unprovoked, and it is best to keep your dog restrained, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.

Clean up after your dog

As in most cities worldwide, you are expected to clean up after your dog in Dubai. Dog waste bins are conveniently placed along most walking areas; make sure you dispose of all waste responsibly.

Keep your dog in a safe place when you are travelling

Dubai Municipality rules protect dogs from neglect and abuse. As a responsible pet parent, you are required to make sure your dog is well-looked after, and all his needs are met. If you are travelling outside the city without your dog, make sure you leave him in a trusted boarding home. You can use any of the many luxury kennel services in Dubai that promise a home away from home experience for your pet.

Neglected or abandoned dogs will be traced back to the owner, and the owner will be fined AED 500.

Don’t use your dog for dog fighting or other aggressive purposes

Dog fighting is illegal and using your dog for aggressive purposes is strictly prohibited under the animal care and welfare laws in Dubai. Such dogs will be confiscated from the owners.

Changing perceptions

Dubai’s doggie rules may seem extremely restrictive, but they stem from a concern for public safety. Dogs are not as common in Dubai as in the rest of the world, and most people do not know how to react to them; people are scared and unsure around dogs. However, in the recent years, perceptions are slowly shifting, and several dog groups are advocating a more dog-friendly environment.

Pet festivals like the Dubai Pet Festival held every December, the Horse and Hound Show at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort Club, and the Abu Dhabi Pet Festival attract pet lovers from across the country and go a long way in educating people about pet ownership and responsibilities in Dubai. The tide is undoubtedly turning, and pets are slowly finding their place in the Dubai sun.

To relocate your furry friend to Dubai, please contact our team for a detailed travel proposal and an overview of the relocation requirements.