Can I bring my Rottweiler to Dubai in 2026?

Yes, but only with a valid Dangerous Dog Permit from DHA and proof of 500,000 AED liability insurance.

What happens if my Pit Bull mix is discovered?

The dog faces seizure, fines from 20,000 AED, and possible deportation or euthanasia.

How long does the permit process take?

Municipalities usually reply within ten working days after you submit photos and documents.

Banned Dog Breeds in UAE 2026: Full List and Rules

Which breeds are fully banned in 2026

The UAE maintains a single nationwide list of prohibited breeds. These dogs may not be imported, bred, sold, or kept as pets anywhere in the country. The list covers 12 breeds and their mixes. ICP enforces the rule at every border and airport, while local municipalities handle checks inside cities.

Pit Bull Terrier and all Pit Bull type dogs
American Staffordshire Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Tosa Inu
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
Neapolitan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff
Boerboel
Canario
Japanese Tosa
Any dog showing more than 50 percent of a banned breed in DNA tests

Restricted breeds that need special permits

Ten additional breeds are allowed only with a DHA-issued Dangerous Dog Permit. Owners must renew the permit every year, install approved fencing, and carry extra liability insurance of at least 500,000 AED. Failure to obtain the permit can result in fines starting at 10,000 AED and seizure of the dog.

Rottweiler
Doberman Pinscher
German Shepherd
Bullmastiff
Mastiff (English, Bull)
Great Dane
Presa Canario
American Bulldog
Argentine Dogo (if under 50 percent banned bloodline)
Any cross that authorities classify as high-risk

How to check your dog before you travel

Send a clear photo and breed certificate to the municipality of your planned emirate at least six weeks before arrival. Dubai uses the Dubai Municipality app; Abu Dhabi uses the TAMM portal. You will receive a written decision within ten working days. If the breed is banned, the dog cannot board the flight.

Consequences of breaking the rules

Bringing a banned dog into the UAE leads to immediate quarantine at the owner’s expense, followed by deportation or euthanasia if no country will accept the animal. Keeping a banned breed already in the country carries fines between 20,000 and 100,000 AED plus possible jail time for repeat offences. Restricted breeds without a permit face seizure and the same fine range.

Practical steps for expat families

If your current dog is on the banned list, rehome it before your move. For restricted breeds, budget for the annual permit (around 1,200 AED), secure fencing (minimum 2.4 m), and buy the required insurance policy. Microchip your dog with an ISO 11784/11785 chip and keep vaccination records ready for DHA inspection. Always carry the permit copy when walking the dog in public.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →