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Dogs in Dubai: A Guide to Owning a Pet in the City
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Are Dogs Allowed in Dubai?
Growing up in Western Europe, I noticed that some of my Muslim neighbors weren’t big fans of dogs. A few would even cross the street to avoid us! When I was moving to Dubai, it made me wonder—are dogs even allowed in Dubai? And do Muslims hate dogs? So, I decided to do some research before packing up my life and my furry friend.
If you’re moving to Dubai and wondering about the rules regarding owning a dog in Dubai, don’t worry—dogs and pets of all kinds are welcome! Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a turtle, pet ownership is common across the city. However, as with most things, there are a few rules to follow to keep everyone happy.
Dog in Dubai: Where Can You Live?
If you’re planning to live with your dog in Dubai, it is important to know that not every community allows pets. Most villa communities are dog-friendly, but apartments? That depends on the building management. Always double-check before signing a lease, and don’t rely on estate agents to tell you the full story. Trust me, I’ve been there! We once moved in only to find “no pets allowed” signs everywhere.
Even if your building allows dogs, the surrounding area might not be so welcoming. For instance, when we lived at the Delta Hotel in JBR, we could walk our dog all over. But just a short stroll away in the Marina, dogs weren’t allowed on the main boulevard. So, research is key when finding the right home for your dog in Dubai.
Dog-Friendly Communities
Some of the best dog-friendly neighborhoods include Arabian Ranches, Dubai Hills, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), The Springs, Meadows, Damac Hills. These areas have parks, walking trails, and more pet-friendly amenities.
Registering Your Dog in Dubai
All dogs in Dubai must be registered with the Dubai Municipality. Registration includes a tag for your pet and proof of vaccinations, which is required if you ever use a boarding facility. The process is simple—just take your Emirates ID and vaccination records to a vet, and they’ll handle the rest. The cost is around AED 100 annually, and if your pet isn’t microchipped yet, the vet can also take care of that.
Vet Care and Boarding for Dogs in Dubai
Dubai has a wide range of veterinary clinics, but not all are created equal. We personally use the British Veterinary Hospital in Jumeirah because it meets UK standards, though it can be pricey. When it comes to boarding your dog in Dubai, make sure to do your research. We’ve had great experiences with “My Second Home,” but not all places are as well-run.
Pet boarding can be a bit of a mixed bag in Dubai. Some facilities overbook, making it stressful for your pet. And believe it or not, there are places where strangers pay to play with boarded animals! Not really our idea of safe pet care, so it’s important to choose wisely.
Vaccination Requirements
Dubai has strict vaccination regulations for pets. Your dog must be up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and the DHLPP vaccine, which covers distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, and parvovirus.
Dog Rules in Dubai
Dogs in Dubai must be leashed unless they are in an enclosed area, such as a dog park or your own yard. Also, cleaning up after your pet is a must. This applies to everyone, including domestic helpers, so be sure to remind them.
Public Transportation
Dogs are not allowed on public transportation in Dubai, including buses, the metro, and trams. You’ll need to arrange private transport or use pet-friendly ride services like Chauf- Fur Pet taxi
The Heat and Your Dog in Dubai
The Dubai heat is intense, and it can be dangerous for dogs. Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid heatstroke, and always check the ground temperature before heading out. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Pet-Friendly Beaches, Hotels, and Restaurants
You might be surprised to know there are now quite a few pet-friendly beaches, hotels, and restaurants in Dubai, but you’ll need to do your research. Pets aren’t allowed in regular taxis, malls, or certain public spaces. Stay tuned for my upcoming blog posts, where I’ll review some of the best pet-friendly spots in Dubai—saving you the search!
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Ramadan in Dubai – What You Should know
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