Taking Cats To UAE » Fly Your Cat to UAE from UK

Bringing your cat to the UAE? We’ll make it easy for you.

The UAE doesn’t require titre tests or months of waiting like some countries do, but there’s still paperwork and an Import Permit to navigate. We’re Fetchapet and we’ve been flying cats to Dubai and Abu Dhabi for over 30 years. We know exactly what needs doing.

Cat Import Requirements For UAE

Here’s what you need to get your cat into Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any of the emirates:

• Your cat needs to be at least four months old. Kittens younger than that can’t enter.
• Microchip first before any vaccinations. The chip number goes on all the vet paperwork.
• Your cat needs rabies, cat flu and enteritis vaccinations. That’s R and RCP to your vet. These need doing at least 21 days before you fly but can’t be older than 12 months. Get a vaccination certificate with all three listed.
• You need an Import Permit from UAE authorities. We’ll put you in touch with our contacts in Dubai or Abu Dhabi who handle these regularly. Takes about two weeks. They can also meet your cat at arrivals and sort customs which saves you a massive headache.
• Within 48 hours of flying, an Official Veterinarian checks your cat and completes the Export Health Certificate. They also do parasite treatments. Most vet practices have someone who can do this.
• We build your cat’s travel crate to the right size in our workshops.
• No quarantine when you arrive. Your cat clears customs and comes home with you.

If you’re bringing a dog as well, here’s what you need to know about taking dogs to the UAE.

Getting Your Cat Ready For UAE

Timeline wise you’re looking at a month to six weeks. Microchip happens first, then vaccinations. Three weeks later the Import Permit should be through (our Dubai and Abu Dhabi contacts handle that application). Last step is the vet appointment within 48 hours of departure.

Much quicker than destinations requiring blood tests and months of waiting. The UAE doesn’t overcomplicate things.

Preparing Your Cat For Travel

Getting your cat comfortable with their travel crate before the actual journey makes a massive difference. If we can get you the crate a few weeks early, leave it out at home with the door open. Toss some treats in there, maybe put a favourite blanket inside. The goal is for your cat to see it as a safe cosy space rather than a trap.

We build the crates ourselves to fit your cat’s measurements. Inside goes vet bed which stays dry even if water spills because liquid drains straight through. We also spray Feliway in the crate which helps anxious cats feel calmer without any sedatives involved.

Your cat needs an empty stomach for six hours before check in. This isn’t us being mean, it genuinely prevents them being sick or having toilet accidents mid flight when they can’t get out. Water stays available throughout the journey though.

The cargo area is temperature controlled and pressurised exactly like the passenger cabin. Lights dim once you’re airborne so it’s dark and peaceful. The loud chaotic part is check in and loading onto the plane but once you’re up cats typically settle down and sleep.

Cats are generally excellent travellers once they’ve adjusted to being in the crate. The key is making that crate familiar beforehand.

Flight Day Logistics

We collect cats from all over England, Scotland and Wales on travel day. You can also bring your cat to us or we can meet at Heathrow if either of those works better for your schedule.

Costs For Flying Cats To UAE

Cat size determines pricing. Since most cats fall within a similar size range the costs don’t vary as dramatically as they do with dogs. Get a quote from us for your specific cat.

Talk To Us

Ring 01206 330332 during working hours (8am to 4pm weekdays) or send an email to info@fetchapet.co.uk literally any time. We respond quickly even outside office hours.

Our UAE contacts process Import Permits and handle customs clearance constantly. Having someone who knows the system inside out makes your arrival significantly smoother.

FAQs About Flying Cats To UAE