Guide to Relocating with Pets from Japan to Dubai: 2026 Edition | Entry Procedures and Preparations for Life There

Last Updated: July 29, 2026

Relocating with Pets to Dubai: Why Is Advance Planning Important?

Dubai is experiencing remarkable economic growth, and an increasing number of people are choosing it as a place to live due to its status as a multicultural, cosmopolitan city. Its excellent public safety and well-developed infrastructure are also key reasons for its popularity as a destination. On the other hand, the UAE (United Arab Emirates) has strict regulations regarding the import of animals, and its climate differs significantly from Japan’s. You must proceed with multiple preparations simultaneously—obtaining an import permit, undergoing export quarantine in Japan, and arranging air transport—and if even one of these steps is overlooked, your entire schedule will be thrown off track.

In this article, we’ll walk you through, step by step, the documents and procedures you need to prepare before departure; choosing an airline and preparing your pet’s crate; customs clearance and license registration upon arrival in Dubai; and how to care for your pet while there, including how to prepare for extreme heat and sandstorms.

What documents and procedures are required before leaving Japan?

To bring a pet to the UAE, you must prepare several documents at different times, including a UAE import permit, an export health certificate issued by a Japanese animal quarantine station, proof of rabies and combination vaccinations, and proof of an ISO-compliant microchip. The table below summarizes the main documents required.

Obtaining a UAE Import Permit (Import Permit)

To bring a pet to the UAE (including Dubai), you must obtain an import permit in advance from the UAE Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOCCAE). Applications are submitted online via the official MOCCAE website, where you must provide details such as the pet’s species, age, coat color, microchip number, vaccination history, and flight information (Source: MOCCAE Official Website: “Import Permit for Pets”(Verified in July 2026).

The permit has a validity period specified at the time of application, and if you are unable to enter the country within that period, you will need to reapply. Since the validity period and application fees are subject to change, be sure to check the latest information on the MOCCAE official website before booking your flight.

In addition, there is a limit on the number of pets an individual may bring. If you plan to bring multiple pets, additional procedures may be required, so it’s best to check the MOCCAE official website or contact the local office well in advance to ensure everything goes smoothly.

When should I have the Japanese export health certificate ready?

When traveling from Japan to another country with a dog or cat, you must undergo an export inspection at the animal quarantine office with jurisdiction over your departure airport and have an English-language health certificate (export quarantine certificate) issued. The desired date for the inspection isUp to 14 days agoApply for an export inspection using NACCS (Animal Quarantine-Related Operations), andWithin 10 days of departureA certificate will be issued after you undergo the examination (Source: Animal quarantine office "to export dogs and cats."(Confirmed in July 2026). It’s easy to confuse this with the rule that “both the application and the inspection must be completed at least 10 days in advance,” but it’s best to remember that the application deadline and the timing of the inspection are two separate deadlines.

The certificate is one of the most important documents you’ll be required to present upon entry into the UAE. As soon as your departure date from Japan is set, consult with the Animal Quarantine Office to work backward and plan your schedule accordingly.

Key Points About Rabies Vaccines, Combination Vaccines, and Microchips

The rabies vaccine is required for entry into the UAE and for submission to airlines. If this is your first vaccination or if you have interrupted your vaccination schedule, you may be required to wait a certain period of time before traveling; however, if you have consistently received booster shots within the validity period, this waiting period is generally not required. Since the requirement for a waiting period and the specific number of days may change, please check the MOCCAE official website for the latest requirements. Having your veterinary clinic issue an English-language vaccination certificate will help ensure a smooth process.

For dogs, proof of vaccination against distemper, parvovirus, infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, and other diseases is required, as is proof of vaccination against feline panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and other diseases for cats. If your pet is unvaccinated or the certificate is incomplete, this could result in measures such as being sent back or having your pet confiscated upon entry; therefore, be sure to complete the vaccinations and obtain the certificate before traveling. It’s a good idea to keep a record of the vaccination dates and lot numbers for your peace of mind.

A 15-digit microchip that complies with ISO 11784 and 11785 is required. After having it implanted at a veterinary clinic, be sure to check that it can be read correctly by other scanners as well; this will ensure that quarantine and airport procedures go smoothly.

Prohibited Dog Breeds and Guidelines on the Number of Dogs Allowed

In the UAE, the import and ownership of several dog breeds classified as dangerous—such as Pit Bull-type, Mastiff-type, and Tosa Inu—are prohibited. Even mixed-breed dogs may be denied entry if their appearance or lineage is deemed similar to these breeds. Since the list of prohibited breeds and the criteria for classification are subject to change, the most up-to-date list of prohibited breeds isMOCCAE Official WebsitePlease check this information, and if you're unsure, it's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or breeder for peace of mind.

There are also restrictions on the number of animals you can bring. If you plan to bring multiple animals, you may need to submit an additional application or undergo a screening process, so be sure to check the MOCCAE official website well in advance.

What are the key points to consider when choosing an airline and preparing a crate?

The main options for flights to Dubai are Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, each with different policies regarding whether pets can travel in the cabin and their layover locations. Choose the appropriate airline and crate based on your pet’s size and travel route.

Differences Between Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways

Emirates Airlines operates direct flights to Dubai International Airport (DXB), and as a general rule, pets are not allowed in the passenger cabin and must be transported as cargo. A separate fee may apply when picking up your pet at the cargo terminal. For the latest pet transport conditions, please seeEmirates Official WebsitePlease check with the

Etihad Airways is based in Abu Dhabi (AUH) and may allow eligible small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin. Since weight and carrier size requirements are subject to change, please check the latest requirements atEtihad Airways Official WebsitePlease check here. If you plan to travel to Dubai after arriving in Abu Dhabi, you’ll also need to arrange ground transportation in advance.

Qatar Airways operates flights to Dubai via Doha, and the category under which pets are transported (checked baggage or cargo) varies depending on factors such as the route, aircraft type, and the pet’s size. Be sure to allow plenty of time in your schedule to ensure a smooth connection. Flight schedules and pet transport conditions are subject to change. Be sure to check the official websites of each airline for the latest transport classifications and flight status.

What should I keep in mind when choosing a crate?

The crate isStandards for the Transport of Live Animals Established by IATA (International Air Transport Association)Be sure to choose one that meets these requirements. The basic requirements are that it be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around, made of sturdy material, and equipped with a durable locking mechanism.

For more detailed information on how to choose a crate, please see the article below.

How to choose the right pet crate (gauge) for transporting pets by plane

What are the transportation restrictions for brachycephalic breeds?

Since brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs are at high risk for heatstroke, many airlines restrict or prohibit their transport during the summer. The specific breeds affected and the applicable periods vary by airline, so be sure to check the official website of the airline you plan to use.

The following article also provides a detailed explanation of air transport for brachycephalic breeds.

Guide to Flying with Brachycephalic Dogs | Preparations and Precautions for Safe Air Travel with Dogs with Short Noses

How should I factor in shipping costs?

Shipping costs vary significantly depending on the pet’s size and weight, the airline used, and whether you use a specialized service provider. Since specific amounts also fluctuate depending on the time of year and exchange rates, this article does not provide any estimated costs. If you need a quote, please contact the airline you plan to use or PetAir.

What are the differences between carry-on baggage, checked baggage, and cargo in terms of how they are transported?

There are three ways to transport pets by plane: traveling with them in the cabin, checking them as baggage in the cargo hold, or shipping them separately as cargo. When traveling to Dubai, major airlines impose restrictions on bringing pets into the cabin, so in most cases, you’ll have to choose between checking them as baggage or shipping them as cargo.

How to Bring a Companion into Your Cabin

Depending on the airline, you may be able to bring small dogs or cats into the cabin with you. Generally, there are restrictions on the combined weight of the pet and its carrier, as well as the carrier’s size, and the carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

On international flights to and from Japan, neither JAL nor ANA allows pets in the passenger cabin. Even on major routes to Dubai, many airlines—such as Emirates—generally do not allow pets in the passenger cabin, so transport in the cargo hold is the standard practice. While some airlines may permit pets in the passenger cabin if certain conditions are met, additional fees and specific requirements apply, so please check directly with the airline you plan to use.

How to Check In Your Luggage

This is the method used by many pet owners. When traveling on the same passenger flight as their owner, pets are transported in the pressurized and climate-controlled cargo hold, rather than in the passenger cabin. During check-in, owners drop off their pets—placed in special crates—at the check-in counter, and upon arrival, the pets are retrieved from a separate area from that used for regular checked baggage.

This is the standard procedure for traveling with a pet on JAL and ANA international flights. The advantages are that the process is relatively simple and pets are treated as additional baggage for fee purposes; however, the disadvantages are that you cannot keep an eye on your pet in the cabin and that there are weight and size restrictions. For example, on ANA international flights,We cannot accept checked baggage if the combined weight of the pet and its carrier exceeds 45 kg.This is the result (Source: ANA Official Website／ANA Cargo Official Website(Confirmed in July 2026). Since the cargo capacity varies by aircraft, advance reservations are required.

Some airlines do not accept certain pets as checked baggage for safety reasons, such as during certain periods in the summer or for brachycephalic breeds. On itineraries with layovers, there may be periods when the pet cannot be given water or food, so be sure to confirm in advance how the pet will be cared for at the layover destination.

How to Ship as Cargo

If the owner is not traveling on the same flight, or if airline regulations prohibit the pet from being checked as baggage, the pet will be shipped as cargo (unaccompanied). In this case, an Air Waybill (AWB) for air cargo will be issued, and a freight forwarder will handle the customs clearance procedures for both export and import.

If you’re shipping your pet to Dubai on Emirates, you’ll need to make the reservation and arrange shipping through the airline’s cargo division (Emirates SkyCargo). The advantages of shipping as cargo include more lenient weight and size restrictions, making it easier to transport even large dogs, and the ability for the owner to travel on a separate flight, allowing for more flexible scheduling. On the other hand, the disadvantages include the fact that costs tend to be higher and customs clearance procedures can be complex. While it is possible to arrange this on your own, in most cases, people hire a specialized pet transport company.

What is the process for immigration and customs clearance upon arrival in Dubai?

Pets arriving at Dubai International Airport are transported to the cargo terminal, where the owner or a designated representative must complete the following procedures: presenting the necessary documents, undergoing inspection by a quarantine officer, and paying the customs clearance fee. If there are no issues, the pet can be picked up on the spot. For details on the procedures and the latest operational guidelines,UAE Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOCCAE) official websitePlease check with the

In addition to customs clearance fees at the cargo terminal, several other costs will be incurred after arrival, such as the pet registration fee with the City of Dubai and the initial consultation fee at a veterinary clinic. Since specific amounts vary depending on the time of year, exchange rates, and the facilities you use, this article does not provide estimated costs. For peace of mind, we recommend referring to the items in the table below and confirming the details in advance with a local veterinary clinic or the City of Dubai authorities.

*The table above does not list specific amounts because we have not been able to verify the figures using primary sources (as of July 2026). Please check directly with the respective offices or facilities for the most up-to-date information.

What are the pet licensing requirements and legal obligations in Dubai?

In Dubai, the law requires owners of dogs and cats to register their pets with the Dubai Municipal Authority. Registration requires proof of rabies vaccination, a microchip number, and the owner’s identification. For more details,Dubai Municipality Official WebsitePlease check with the

You can register your pet at a veterinary clinic or online. Since many veterinary clinics will handle the license registration for you at the same time, it’s a good idea to visit a clinic within about one week of your pet’s arrival to complete the registration along with a health checkup. You’ll also need to apply for license renewal when it’s time to get your pet’s vaccinations updated, so be sure not to forget the renewal deadline. Taking your pet to a public place without a valid license may result in penalties.

Living with Pets in Dubai: Housing, Veterinary Clinics, and Insurance?

Should You Choose an Apartment or a Villa?

When choosing a place to live in Dubai, your main options are apartments and villas. Since each has its pros and cons, you should consider your pet’s size and your lifestyle when making your decision.

When looking for a place to live, be sure to confirm in writing that pets are allowed before signing the lease. Since many properties have restrictions, especially on large dogs, it’s essential to check in advance. In some cases, an additional security deposit for pets may be required, so it’s a good idea to factor this into your budget.

The State of Veterinary Clinics, Grooming Salons, and Pet Hotels

There are numerous veterinary clinics in Dubai that offer services in English and Arabic, and some clinics are open 24 hours a day. While the standard of care is high, many people find that veterinary fees are higher than in Japan. The number of grooming salons and pet hotels is also on the rise, so we recommend making reservations well in advance during the travel season.

Using Pet Insurance and Pet Sitters

In Dubai, where veterinary bills can be quite high, many pet owners are considering pet insurance that covers treatment abroad. Since coverage and deductibles vary by insurance company and plan, be sure to check the details carefully before signing up.

For peace of mind when traveling, going on a business trip, or in case of an emergency, it’s a good idea to secure a reliable pet sitter or pet hotel in advance. Since communication will primarily be in English, it’s best to arrange a visit and a meeting beforehand to ensure everything goes smoothly. Dubai also has a thriving online community for pet owners, which can be helpful for gathering the latest local information and reviews.

In recent years, the number of dog parks and pet-friendly cafes has been increasing, and doing some research in advance will give you more options for outings with your pet. As mentioned in the previous chapter, there are certain etiquette rules to follow when walking your dog or going out, but since pets are often restricted from entering public transportation and shopping malls, it’s a good idea to check the facility’s rules before heading out.

What are the precautions for risks such as extreme heat, sandstorms, and power outages?

Measures Against Extreme Heat

In Dubai, it’s not uncommon for summer temperatures to exceed 40°C, and the asphalt gets even hotter during the day. Even indoors, make sure to always have cold water available, and use cooling mats and cooling vests. As a general rule, avoid walking during the day and limit walks to early morning or evening. When walking, using paw protection boots or gel pads can help prevent burns from the heat of the pavement.

Preparing for Sandstorms and Power Outages

During sandstorms, keep all doors and windows closed, and consider maintaining your air conditioning filters and using an air purifier. For pets with respiratory issues, it’s important to keep the indoor environment as clean as possible. After going outside, be sure to thoroughly wipe off any sand from their paw pads.

Power outages may occur during the peak of summer. Since your pets could suffer from heatstroke if the air conditioner stops working, it’s a good idea to consider preparing cooling mats and a backup power source for peace of mind.

Securing Evacuation Routes and Temporary Shelter in Case of an Emergency

It’s a good idea to compile a list of emergency contacts, such as veterinary clinics, pet insurance companies, and pet transport services. Keep digital copies of your pet’s health certificates and vaccination records on hand, and make sure you always have the contact information for a trusted pet hotel or pet sitter in case you need to return home or travel unexpectedly.

What are some common mistakes and things to watch out for during preparation?

Pre-Departure Checklist (Check in Chronological Order)

Organizing your preparations in chronological order makes it easier to avoid oversights. Be sure to check them against the recommended timelines.

What can PetAir do?

PetAir provides guidance on how to prepare the necessary documents for travel to Dubai and compiles information regarding animal quarantine procedures. We also offer comprehensive support for the entire travel process, including coordination with airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airways, as well as freight forwarders; guidance on customs clearance; and assistance with the handover at the airport. Please let us know your destination, scheduled departure date, and your pet’s condition, and we will advise you on the necessary preparation time and the steps to follow.

We do not prepare documents or submit applications on your behalf; our services primarily focus on organizing the necessary information and guiding you through the process. We do not guarantee entry into a country, confirm flight reservations, or certify your pet’s health status. Please consult with your pet’s veterinarian regarding medical treatments, vaccinations, and health management at the veterinary clinic. Fees vary depending on the destination, travel dates, and your pet’s condition, so we will provide an estimate when you contact us. If you have any questions—such as “Is travel to this country possible?” or “How much time should I allow for preparations?”—please feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Summary: By breaking the process down into steps, you can smoothly relocate with your pet to Dubai.

Relocating with a pet to Dubai involves several steps that must be completed at different times: obtaining a UAE import permit, completing Japanese export quarantine procedures, selecting an airline and preparing the pet carrier, and registering for a license upon arrival in Dubai. If you start each of these steps early, you’ll have plenty of time to handle them without rushing.

Once you’re there, it’s essential to prepare for the intense heat and sandstorms, find a pet-friendly place to live, and make other practical arrangements such as finding a veterinary clinic and pet insurance. There are many tasks to tackle—from preparing documents and arranging air transport to setting up your new life after arrival—but if you organize them one by one in chronological order, you can proceed without feeling overwhelmed. If you let us know your destination, planned departure date, and your pet’s condition, PetAir will advise you on the necessary preparation time and the best steps to take.

Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)

*The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Quarantine regulations in various countries and airline policies are subject to change without notice. This article is intended to provide general information only; to determine whether travel is permitted and to confirm specific requirements, please be sure to check the latest official information from the relevant national authorities, animal quarantine offices, and airlines.

References:UAE Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOCCAE) official website／MOCCAE Import Permit Service Page／MOCCAE Information on Prohibited Dog Breeds／Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Japan／Animal Quarantine Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries／Emirates (Pet Travel Guide)／Etihad Airways (Pet Travel Guide)／ANA International Flight Pet Guidelines／ANA Cargo Animal Transport Regulations／Dubai Municipality Official Website