Dubai Pet Relocation Cost 2026: UK to UAE Price
Moving your pet from the UK to Dubai in 2026? Full cost breakdown for Emirates cargo and cabin travel, plus quarantine rules and required vet certificates.
Pet Travel Rules from the UK to Dubai in 2026
Bringing a dog or cat into Dubai requires an import permit from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). The process starts with a microchip, rabies vaccination at least 21 days before travel, and a recent health certificate. Dubai Municipality also requires a local veterinary check within 48 hours of arrival. No quarantine applies when all documents are in order.
Emirates Pet Travel Options 2026
Emirates carries pets as manifest cargo or in the cabin on select routes. From London Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW) to Dubai (DXB), the manifest cargo route is most common for dogs over 8 kg and all cats. Cabin travel is limited to pets under 8 kg including carrier on certain aircraft. Both options need advance booking through Emirates SkyCargo or your airline ticket desk.
2026 Cost Breakdown: London to Dubai
Manifest cargo fees start at 4,200 AED for pets up to 30 kg total weight. An additional 95 AED per extra kilogram applies beyond 30 kg. A flat fuel surcharge of 680 AED and a handling fee of 320 AED are added at booking. These rates cover the one-way journey and include temperature-controlled holding at DXB cargo terminal.
Cabin travel on permitted flights costs 2,850 AED for pets up to 8 kg. This fee covers the carrier as checked baggage in the cabin area. Excess weight or oversized carriers incur 120 AED per kilogram above the limit. Both cargo and cabin prices are valid through 2026 and exclude VAT.
Required Documents and Certificates
- MOCCAE import permit issued online at least 7 days before departure
- ISO microchip number recorded on all certificates
- Rabies vaccination certificate dated at least 21 days prior to arrival
- UK DEFRA veterinary health certificate endorsed by an official veterinarian within 10 days of travel
- Dubai Municipality arrival inspection form completed at DXB cargo or passenger terminal
Original paper documents travel with the pet. Electronic copies must also be uploaded to the MOCCAE portal before departure.
Additional Costs to Budget
UK vet examination and certificate: 650-950 AED. MOCCAE import permit: 380 AED. Dubai Municipality inspection fee: 210 AED. Optional door-to-door collection and delivery inside the UAE: 1,400-2,200 AED depending on emirate. Pet-friendly hotel quarantine is not required but may be used if paperwork is incomplete, costing 450 AED per night.
Timeline and Booking Tips
Start the process 30 days before travel. Book Emirates cargo space at least 14 days ahead as summer slots fill quickly. Confirm aircraft type with your booking agent to ensure cabin travel is available. Carry copies of every certificate in your hand luggage for immigration queries.
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Frequently asked questions
Is quarantine still required for UK pets in Dubai 2026?▾
No quarantine is needed if the pet has a valid microchip, rabies vaccine, and endorsed health certificate.
How much does Emirates cargo cost for a 25 kg dog?▾
Base fee is 4,200 AED plus 680 AED fuel and 320 AED handling, totaling 5,200 AED one way.
Can I take my cat in the cabin from London?▾
Yes, if the cat plus carrier weighs under 8 kg and the flight permits cabin pets.
Which certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel?▾
The UK DEFRA veterinary health certificate must be issued and endorsed within 10 days of arrival.
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