Pet Ownership in Dubai: The Essential Dos and Don’ts

Dubai is a fantastic city for pet lovers, but it comes with strict rules to keep both animals and people safe. If you are thinking about having a pet here, it is important to know what is expected of pet parents in the city. Not following the rules can lead to hefty fines or even losing your pet, so understanding and following the laws are crucial.

Here Are the Dos and Don’ts of Pet Ownership in Dubai

What You Need to Do as a Pet Owner in Dubai 

• Register and Vaccinate Your Pet: All dogs in Dubai must be registered with the Dubai Municipality and microchipped. You will also need to renew their vaccinations every year; rabies and other core shots are mandatory. Cats need annual vaccinations too. If your pet is not registered or vaccinated, you could face an AED 200 fine. Usually, you will get three days to fix the issue.
• Keep Your Dog on a Leash (and Muzzle Large Breeds): Whenever you are out in public, your dog must be on a leash. If you have a large breed, a muzzle is also required. Walking your dog off-leash is against the law. First-time offenders receive an AED 200 fine, and repeat offenses cost even more.
• Make Sure Your Home Allows Pets: Not every building in Dubai is pet-friendly. Before bringing a pet home, check with your landlord and get written permission. No approval means no pet, and possibly a fine if you break the rules.
• Always Clean Up After Your Dog: It is mandatory to pick up after your dog in public areas. Always carry waste bags and use the bins provided. More than just a matter of courtesy, it is the law in Dubai.
• Plan for Your Pet When You Travel: If you need to leave Dubai and cannot take your pet, arrange for a licensed kennel or a trusted pet sitter. Leaving your pet alone for days is considered neglect and can result in an AED 500 fine.

What You Should Never Do

• Don’t Use Your Dog for Aggression or Fighting: Dog fighting is completely banned in Dubai, and you can’t use your dog to threaten anyone. If you do, your dog will be taken away and you’ll face legal action.
• Don’t Let Your Dog Harm Others: If your dog bites someone or damages property, there’s an AED 5,000 fine. You will also have to sign a letter promising it won’t happen again. If it does, you may lose your pet for good.
• Don’t Bring Dogs to Restricted Areas: Many public spaces in Dubai don’t allow dogs; these spaces can include malls, beaches, buses, and the Metro. Always check for signs and stick to pet-friendly zones like Jebel Ali Beach or The Greens.
• Don’t Keep Banned Breeds or Exotic Pets: Certain dog breeds, such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans, are not allowed in Dubai. If found, these dogs will be taken and rehomed outside the UAE. Exotic animals like big cats, monkeys, or reptiles are also banned. Fines for keeping such animals can reach up to AED 500,000, or even prison time if someone gets hurt.

Dubai takes pet ownership seriously, and the city’s rules are designed to protect pets and people alike. By following the guidelines, you’ll keep your pet safe, avoid trouble, and make sure your environment (and Dubai as a whole) is a welcoming space for pets and pet parents.