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AI-assisted content notice: This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by the Tovi team. UAE rules and fees change — always verify with official sources before acting. Last reviewed: March 2026.
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Pet Adoption in UAE: K9 Friends 38 Tails How to Adopt

UAE shelters take in 5000+ pets annually. K9 Friends, 38 Tails, RAK Animal Welfare. Here is the 2026 adoption process.

¡7 min read¡By the Tovi UAE Team

Quick answer

Adopting from K9 Friends or 38 Tails takes 4–6 weeks. Submit an online application on the shelter website, pay a 550–750 AED adoption fee, attend a home visit, and receive final approval from the shelter team. K9 Friends operates in Dubai with 800+ dogs and cats rescued annually, while 38 Tails in Abu Dhabi focuses on small dogs and cats. Both shelters require microchipping, vaccination records, and a signed adoption contract. Process time depends on reference checks and availability.

Adoption fees and costs in 2026

Both shelters cover spay/neuter surgery, microchip, and core vaccines before adoption. Current fees:

  • K9 Friends dog adoption: 650 AED
  • K9 Friends cat adoption: 550 AED
  • 38 Tails dog adoption: 750 AED
  • 38 Tails cat adoption: 550 AED

Additional costs include transport crates (150–300 AED), food bowls, litter trays, and initial veterinary check-up (200–400 AED) at a private clinic. UAE residents must register pets with Dubai Municipality or Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) within 14 days.

Step-by-step adoption process

Online applications are submitted through the official websites. The steps are:

  1. Fill online form: Include household members, housing type, yard size, and past pet ownership experience.
  2. Reference check: Two non-family references are required.
  3. Home visit:

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