Emirates Pet Policy: How to transport a pet with Emirates 2026

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Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026

Complete guide to Emirates pet transportation policy. Learn requirements for flying with dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, birds, and reptiles via Emirates SkyCargo. Includes documentation, costs, carrier specifications, and destination requirements.

In-Cabin Pet

Emirates does NOT permit pets to travel in the aircraft cabin, with the following exception:

Falcons (Limited Routes Only)

• Permitted species: Falcons only
• Eligible routes: Select flights within the Middle East region
• Maximum per passenger: 1 falcon
• Maximum per flight: 6 falcons total
• Weight limit: Not specified
• Carrier requirements: Hood and proper restraints required
• Booking deadline: Minimum 24 hours advance notice required

Animals NOT Allowed in Cabin

❌ Dogs

❌ Cats

❌ Ferrets

❌ Rodents (hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, rats)

❌ Reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles)

❌ Rabbits

❌ Birds (except falcons on specific routes)

Checked Baggage Pet Transport

Emirates does NOT allow pets to travel as checked baggage in the aircraft hold.

Alternative Required:

All pets must be transported through Emirates SkyCargo as manifest cargo, regardless of size or weight.

Affected animals:

• All dogs (all breeds and sizes)
• All cats (all breeds and sizes)
• Ferrets
• Rodents
• Reptiles
• Rabbits
• Birds (except falcons on approved routes)

Cargo Pet Transport (Emirates SkyCargo)

Emirates requires all pets (except service animals and falcons on select routes) to travel via Emirates SkyCargo as manifest cargo.

Accepted Animals

Dogs

• Age minimum: 16 weeks (4 months)
• Weight limit: Maximum 32 kg (70 lbs) per container for standard cargo
• Carrier dimensions: Must meet IATA Live Animals Regulations standards
• Booking requirement: Contact Emirates SkyCargo at least 48 hours before departure

Cats

• Age minimum: 16 weeks (4 months)
• Weight limit: Maximum 32 kg (70 lbs) per container
• Carrier dimensions: IATA-compliant container required
• Booking requirement: Minimum 48 hours advance notice

Ferrets

• Status: Accepted as cargo
• Age minimum: 16 weeks
• Requirements: Same as cats and dogs
• Additional restrictions: May be prohibited in certain countries

Rodents (Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Rats, Mice)

• Status: Accepted with restrictions
• Container requirements: Escape-proof, IATA-compliant container
• Booking requirement: 48-hour advance notice
• Country restrictions: Verify import regulations at destination

Reptiles (Snakes, Lizards, Turtles, Tortoises)

• Status: Accepted as cargo only
• Temperature requirements: Climate-controlled transport required
• Container specifications: Secure, ventilated, escape-proof containers
• Restrictions: Venomous species prohibited; CITES documentation required for protected species

Rabbits

• Status: Accepted as cargo
• Age minimum: 16 weeks
• Container requirements: IATA-compliant with adequate ventilation
• Booking deadline: 48 hours minimum

Birds (Non-Falcon Species)

• Status: Accepted as cargo only
• Container requirements: Bird-specific IATA-compliant containers
• Restrictions: Certain species require CITES permits
• Quarantine: May be subject to quarantine at destination

Documentation Requirements

Essential Documents for All Pets

1. Health Certificate

• Issuing authority: Licensed veterinarian
• Validity period: Issued within 10 days of travel
• Content requirements:
•   Pet owner’s name and contact information
•   Pet description (species, breed, age, color, weight)
•   Confirmation of good health and fitness to fly
•   Veterinarian signature and stamp
•   Vaccination records attached

2. Vaccination Records

For Dogs:

✓ Rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days before travel but within 12 months)

✓ DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)

✓ Bordetella (recommended)

For Cats:

✓ Rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days before travel but within 12 months)

✓ FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)

For Ferrets:

✓ Rabies vaccination

✓ Canine distemper vaccination

For Rodents, Reptiles, Rabbits, Birds:

• Vaccination requirements vary by destination country
• Consult with destination country’s import regulations

3. Import/Export Permits

Required for: All destinations

Obtained from: Destination country’s agriculture/quarantine department

Processing time: 2-8 weeks (varies by country)

Content: Permission to import specific animal species

4. Microchip Documentation

Requirement level: Mandatory for dogs and cats to most destinations

Chip type: ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip

Timing: Must be implanted before rabies vaccination

Documentation: Certificate showing microchip number and date of implantation

5. Additional Certifications (Destination-Dependent)

• CITES permit (for endangered species and certain reptiles)
• Tapeworm treatment certificate (required for UK and certain EU destinations)
• Titer test results (for countries requiring rabies antibody tests)
• Country-specific import licenses

Breed and Species Restrictions

Prohibited Dog Breeds

Emirates and destination countries may restrict or prohibit certain breeds:

Commonly Restricted Breeds:

• Pit Bull Terrier (all types)
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Perro de Presa Canario

Snub-Nosed Breeds (Temperature Restrictions Apply):

• Bulldogs (English, French, American)
• Pugs
• Pekingese
• Shih Tzu
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer
• Persian cats
• Himalayan cats

Temperature Restrictions: Snub-nosed breeds may be refused during summer months or when temperatures exceed 29°C (85°F) at origin, transit, or destination.

Prohibited Animals

• Venomous snakes and reptiles
• Aggressive or dangerous breeds (at airline’s discretion)
• Pregnant animals (within 30 days of delivery date)
• Animals under 16 weeks of age
• Unweaned animals

Country-Specific Prohibitions

United Arab Emirates:

• Pit bulls and crossbreeds banned
• Dangerous dog breeds prohibited

United Kingdom:

Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro prohibited

Australia:

• Strict quarantine requirements for all pets
• Minimum 10-day quarantine upon arrival

Carrier Requirements and Specifications

IATA-Compliant Container Standards

For Dogs and Cats

Size Requirements:

• Length: Pet length (nose to tail base) + 1/2 of front leg length
• Width: 2 x pet width
• Height: Pet height (floor to top of head/ears in standing position) + 5-10 cm

Container Features:

✓ Rigid plastic or metal construction

✓ Secure door with locking mechanism

✓ Ventilation on at least 3 sides (4 sides for international travel)

✓ Leak-proof bottom

✓ Food and water containers attached to door

✓ “Live Animal” labels on top and sides

✓ Directional arrows indicating upright position

✓ Your contact information label

How to Choose a Pet Travel Carrier 2026 more here…

Material Guidelines:

• Wire/mesh doors acceptable
• No wheels (or wheels must be secured/removed)
• No collapsible/soft-sided carriers

For Small Rodents

• Escape-proof solid-sided container
• Adequate ventilation holes
• Bedding material included
• Food and water provisions secured

For Reptiles

• Secure, ventilated container appropriate to species
• Temperature regulation capability
• Separate compartments for multiple animals
• Substrate material appropriate to species

For Birds

• Bird-specific IATA container
• Appropriate perch height
• Food and water containers
• Covered sides to reduce stress
• Adequate ventilation

For Rabbits

• Similar specifications to cats
• Height must accommodate upright sitting position
• Secure door mechanism
• Bedding material required

Booking and Reservations

How to Book Pet Transportation

Step 1: Advance Planning

• Timeline: Contact Emirates SkyCargo at least 48-72 hours before departure
• Peak seasons: Book 2-4 weeks in advance during holidays
• Documentation: Begin gathering required documents 8-12 weeks before travel

Step 2: Contact Emirates SkyCargo

• Phone: Contact your local Emirates SkyCargo office
• Email: Submit pet transportation request in writing
• Information needed:
  • Pet species, breed, age, weight
  • Container dimensions
  • Origin and destination
  • Proposed travel dates
  • Owner contact information

Step 3: Confirmation

• Response time: 24-48 hours for booking confirmation
• Capacity: Subject to space availability and aircraft type
• Documentation deadline: All documents must be submitted 24 hours before departure

Step 4: Payment

• When: Upon booking confirmation
• Method: Credit card, bank transfer, or cash (varies by location)
• Refunds: Subject to Emirates SkyCargo terms and conditions

Booking Limitations

Number of Pets Allowed

• Per passenger: No limit (pets travel as cargo, not with passenger)
• Per flight: Subject to aircraft capacity and cargo space availability
• Multiple pets: Each pet requires separate container (unless specific exceptions apply)

Exception for Small Animals

• 2 puppies/kittens from same litter under 6 months may share container if combined weight doesn’t exceed limit
• Maximum of 3 small animals (same species, comparable size) may share container if compatible

Cost and Fees

Pricing Structure

Variable Factors:

• Route and distance
• Pet weight (including container)
• Container dimensions
• Season (peak vs. off-peak)
• Currency fluctuations

How to Get Quote

1. Contact Emirates SkyCargo with complete pet details
2. Provide container dimensions and total weight
3. Specify origin and destination
4. Receive detailed cost estimate

Additional Fees May Apply For:

• Import/export permits
• Veterinary inspections at airport
• Customs clearance
• Quarantine services (destination-dependent)
• Specialized temperature-controlled transport

Health and Safety Requirements

Pre-Flight Preparations

24-48 Hours Before Flight

✓ Veterinary check-up

✓ Health certificate issuance

✓ Sedation consultation (generally NOT recommended)

✓ Trim nails to prevent container damage

✓ Familiarize pet with travel container

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Day of Travel

✓ Light meal 3-4 hours before departure

✓ Water available until departure

✓ Exercise before airport

✓ Arrive 3-4 hours before flight departure

✓ Have all documentation ready

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Prohibited Items in Pet Container

❌ Sedatives or tranquilizers (unless specifically required)

❌ Collars with leashes attached (choking hazard)

❌ Food in container during flight

❌ Excessive toys or bedding (can obstruct ventilation)

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Recommended Container Accessories

✓ Absorbent bedding or puppy pads

✓ Frozen water container (thaws during flight)

✓ Familiar-scented blanket or toy

✓ Emergency contact information card

✓ Feeding/medication instructions

Temperature and Seasonal Restrictions

Temperature Limits

Emirates SkyCargo monitors temperatures at origin, transit points, and destination:

Maximum Temperature: 29°C (85°F)

• Snub-nosed breeds restricted above this temperature
• All pets may face restrictions above 35°C (95°F)

Minimum Temperature: Varies by breed and species

• Short-haired breeds: 10°C (50°F) minimum recommended
• Cold-weather breeds: May tolerate lower temperatures

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Months (May-September)

• Peak restriction period for snub-nosed breeds
• Morning and evening flights preferred
• Enhanced monitoring of heat-sensitive species

Winter Months (December-February)

• Temperature checks at all points
• Additional bedding recommended
• Cold-sensitive breeds may require climate-controlled transport

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Service Animals (Guide Dogs/Assistance Dogs)

In-Cabin Travel

Eligibility:

• Recognized service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities
• Guide dogs for the blind or visually impaired
• Hearing dogs for the deaf or hearing impaired
• Psychiatric service dogs (with proper documentation)

Requirements:

✓ Advance notification: Minimum 48 hours before departure

✓ Service animal ID and training certification

✓ Health certificate and vaccination records

✓ Destination country import permit

✓ Dog must remain on floor at passenger’s feet or on lap (small dogs)

✓ Must be harnessed or leashed at all times

Accepted Breeds:

• Most breeds accepted as service animals
• Must be individually trained and certified

No Charge:

– Emirates does not charge for service animals traveling in cabin with disabled passengers

Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

Policy:

Emirates has restricted emotional support animal policies in line with many international carriers:

• ESAs are generally NOT permitted in cabin
• Must travel as cargo through Emirates SkyCargo
• Same requirements as regular pets
• Advance booking required

Documentation Not Sufficient for Cabin Travel:

• ESA letters from healthcare providers
• Emotional support animal registration
• Online certifications

Exception:

– Properly certified psychiatric service animals with documented disability accommodation may be considered on case-by-case basis.

Transit and Connecting Flights

Layovers and Connections

Short Connections (Under 4 Hours)

• Pet remains in climate-controlled cargo hold
• No unloading during transit
• Water check by ground crew (when possible)
• Emirates coordinates through-check to final destination

Long Connections (Over 4 Hours)

• Pet may be unloaded to Emirates SkyCargo facility
• Climate-controlled holding area
• Water and visual checks performed
• May incur additional handling fees

Overnight Connections

• Pet transferred to Emirates SkyCargo facility
• Climate-controlled accommodation
• Visual health checks
• Food and water provided (if owner supplies)
• Additional charges apply

Dubai Transit Considerations

• Dubai has dedicated pet facility at Emirates SkyCargo
• Temperature-controlled environment
• 24/7 monitoring
• Veterinary services available on-site
• Transit pets do not clear customs

Read more about transit rules here.

Destination-Specific Requirements

Popular Destinations

United Kingdom

• Microchip: Mandatory (before rabies vaccination)
• Rabies vaccination: Minimum 21 days before travel
• Tapeworm treatment: Required 1-5 days before entry (dogs only)
• Pet passport or health certificate: Required
• Quarantine: None if all requirements met (Pet Travel Scheme)
• Booking: Minimum 48 hours advance notice

United States

• Microchip: Recommended but not mandatory
• Rabies vaccination: Required for dogs (minimum 30 days before travel)
• Health certificate: USDA-endorsed (within 10 days of travel)
• CDC regulations: Import permit may be required
• Quarantine: None (except Hawaii: 120-day quarantine)
• State requirements: Vary by state

Australia

• Microchip: Mandatory
• Rabies vaccination and titer test: Required (6 months before travel)
• Import permit: Required from Department of Agriculture
• Quarantine: Minimum 10 days in government facility
• Pre-export preparations: Extensive (6+ months planning)
• Cost: High (quarantine and import fees exceed AUD $2,000)

European Union

• Microchip: Mandatory (ISO standard)
• Rabies vaccination: Required (21 days before entry)
• EU Pet Passport: Required from EU countries
• Health certificate: Required from non-EU countries
• Tapeworm treatment: Required for certain countries
• TRACES notification: Required 24 hours before entry

United Arab Emirates

• Microchip: Mandatory
• Rabies vaccination: Required (30 days to 12 months before travel)
• Import permit: Required from Ministry of Climate Change and Environment
• Health certificate: Issued within 10 days of travel
• Breed restrictions: Pit bulls and dangerous breeds prohibited
• Quarantine: May be required at authority’s discretion

Prohibited Routes and Restrictions

Countries with Pet Import Bans or Severe Restrictions

• Singapore: Strict quarantine requirements
• New Zealand: Minimum 10-day quarantine
• Iceland: Extended quarantine periods
• Jamaica: Complex import procedures
• Malaysia: Restricted breeds and long processing times

Emirates Route Restrictions

• Some destinations may have limited cargo capacity
• Certain aircraft types cannot accommodate pets
• Temperature restrictions may affect availability
• Political or health situations may temporarily suspend pet transport

What to Expect: Timeline and Process

1. Research destination country requirements
2. Consult with veterinarian about vaccinations
3. Apply for import permits (if required)
4. Obtain microchip (if not already done)
5. Begin gathering required documentation

4-6 Weeks Before Travel

1. Ensure all vaccinations are up to date
2. Order IATA-compliant travel container
3. Begin acclimating pet to container
4. Apply for CITES permits (if applicable)
5. Confirm import permit processing

2-3 Weeks Before Travel

1. Contact Emirates SkyCargo to book space
2. Confirm all documentation requirements
3. Schedule pre-travel veterinary examination
4. Finalize container preparation
5. Make payment arrangements

1 Week Before Travel

1. Veterinary health check
2. Health certificate issuance
3. Confirm booking with Emirates SkyCargo
4. Prepare container with labels and accessories
5. Review all documentation

24-48 Hours Before Travel

1. Final health check
2. Reconfirm flight and booking
3. Prepare pet identification tags
4. Pack emergency contact information
5. Light feeding schedule begins

Day of Travel

1. Arrive at cargo facility 3-4 hours before departure
2. Present all documentation
3. Complete customs/agricultural inspection
4. Pet is loaded onto aircraft
5. Receive tracking information

Upon Arrival

1. Clear customs and agricultural inspection at destination
2. Collect pet from cargo facility
3. Immediate health check
4. Comply with quarantine requirements (if applicable)
5. Allow adjustment period for pet

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Emirates flights?

No, Emirates does not allow dogs in the aircraft cabin. All dogs must travel as cargo through Emirates SkyCargo, regardless of size.

Can I bring my cat as carry-on luggage?

No, cats cannot travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. They must be transported as cargo via Emirates SkyCargo.

Are there any animals allowed in the cabin?

Yes, but only falcons on select routes within the Middle East region, and properly certified service animals for passengers with disabilities.

How much does it cost to transport my pet on Emirates?

Costs vary based on route, pet weight, container dimensions, and season. Contact Emirates SkyCargo for a specific quote.

Can I visit my pet during a layover in Dubai?

Generally, no. Pets remain in the climate-controlled cargo facility during layovers. Short connections do not allow access, but arrangements may be possible for extended layovers with advance notice.

What happens if my pet is denied boarding due to temperature?

If temperatures exceed safety limits, the flight will be rescheduled. Contact Emirates SkyCargo to rebook at no additional charge (subject to airline policy).

Can I sedate my pet for the flight?

Sedation is generally NOT recommended by veterinarians and airlines due to altitude and pressure changes. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.

What if my pet’s flight is delayed or cancelled?

Emirates SkyCargo will care for your pet in climate-controlled facilities and rebook on the next available flight. You will be notified immediately.

How do I track my pet’s journey?

Emirates SkyCargo provides an airway bill number for tracking. Contact their customer service for updates throughout the journey.

Can two pets share a container?

Generally, no, unless they are small puppies/kittens from the same litter under 6 months of age, or with special approval for compatible small animals.

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Important Reminders and Tips

Essential Tips for Safe Pet Travel

Before Booking

✓ Research destination country requirements thoroughly

✓ Start planning 2-3 months in advance

✓ Consider your pet’s health, age, and temperament

✓ Consult with veterinarian about fitness to fly

✓ Factor in costs: transport fees, documentation, quarantine

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Container Preparation

✓ Purchase IATA-compliant container well in advance

✓ Acclimate pet to container over several weeks

✓ Label container clearly with contact information

✓ Attach copies of health documents to container

✓ Include absorbent bedding

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Health and Comfort

✓ Schedule vet appointment close to travel date

✓ Ensure all vaccinations are current

✓ Trim nails to prevent injury

✓ Do not feed heavily before travel

✓ Provide frozen water that thaws during flight

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Documentation

✓ Make multiple copies of all documents

✓ Carry originals in clear plastic folder

✓ Keep digital copies on phone/email

✓ Translate documents if traveling to non-English speaking country

✓ Include veterinarian’s 24-hour contact number

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Day of Travel

✓ Arrive 3-4 hours early

✓ Exercise pet before departure

✓ Remain calm (pets sense anxiety)

✓ Bring extra leash and supplies

✓ Have destination veterinarian contact ready

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Contact Information

Website: Emirates SkyCargo

General Inquiries: Contact local Emirates SkyCargo office

Regional Offices (Examples)

Dubai, UAE:

• Phone: +971 4 299 1111
• Email: cargo@emirates.com

Before You Call

Have ready:

• Pet species, breed, age, weight
• Container dimensions
• Travel dates and route
• Specific questions about requirements

Additional Resources

IATA Live Animals Regulations

Pet Travel Scheme (UK)

USDA APHIS (USA)

Destination country agriculture/quarantine department

Conclusion

Traveling with pets on Emirates requires careful planning and adherence to strict regulations. While Emirates does not permit pets in the cabin or as checked baggage (except falcons on select routes and certified service animals), their SkyCargo service provides professional, climate-controlled transport for pets traveling as cargo.

Key Takeaways:

1. Plan ahead: Start preparations 8-12 weeks before travel

2. Documentation is critical: Ensure all paperwork is complete and current

3. IATA compliance: Use only approved containers meeting all specifications

4. Book early: Contact Emirates SkyCargo at least 48 hours in advance (preferably earlier)

5. Destination research: Know your destination country’s specific requirements

6. Health first: Ensure your pet is healthy and fit to fly

Remember: Each country has unique import requirements. Always verify current regulations with the destination country’s agricultural or quarantine department before travel.

For the most current and detailed information, always consult Emirates SkyCargo directly and your destination country’s official import requirements.

*Disclaimer: Pet transportation policies are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with Emirates SkyCargo before booking. This guide is for informational purposes and does not replace official airline or government requirements.

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