Are Dogs Allowed in Dubai?
Growing up in Western Europe, I noticed that some of my Muslim neighbours 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’s 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 know people who’ve been there! They moved in, only to find “no pets allowed” signs everywhere, which caused a lot of stress and fines, and they had to plan an early exit because of it.
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
Pet-Friendly Villa/Townhouse Areas:
- Arabian Ranches – Known for its parks, walking trails, and open spaces, making it ideal for dog owners.
- Dubai Hills Estate – Perfect for pets with a dedicated dog park and lots of green areas.
- The Meadows & The Springs – Quiet neighborhoods with lakes and plenty of open spaces for dog walks.
- Damac Hills 1 & 2 – Dog parks, plus loads of outdoor areas to explore.
Pet-Friendly Apartment Areas:
- Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) – Known for being pet-friendly, JLT has lots of lakeside paths for walks, a dog park, and many buildings that welcome pets! That’s not all; many of the local restaurants and cafes also allow pets.
- The Greens & The Views – Apartments here are surrounded by lush green areas, making them perfect for taking your dog out.
- Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) – This area features a mix of villas and apartments with plenty of parks and open spaces.
- Palm Jumeirah – Certain apartments and villas are pet-friendly, and it even has the dog-friendly beach, West Beach
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
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!
You may also be interested in reading;
Ramadan in Dubai – What You Should know