Etihad Airways Pet Policy: How to transport a pet in 2026

Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026

Etihad allows cats and dogs to fly right at your feet (or in their own seat!). Unlike many airlines, they even welcome pets in Business and First Class, provided you follow the “Rule of 8.”

In the Cabin: The “Royal” Guest

Who’s Invited? Cats and dogs at least 16 weeks old.
The Weight Limit: Your pet + their carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
The Cost: A standard fee of $200 USD (or 29,000 Etihad Guest Miles) per pet, per flight segment.
Extra Space? If you want your pet to have more legroom, you can purchase an adjacent seat. This increases the allowable carrier size and ensures your pet is right next to you!

Approved Carrier Sizes (2026 Update)

Under the Seat: Max 40 x 40 x 22 cm (L x W x H).
On an Extra Seat: Max 50 x 43 x 50 cm (L x W x H).
The “Comfort” Rule: Etihad gate agents are strict. Your pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally without touching the top of the carrier.

The “Mission: Possible” Booking Process

Booking a pet on Etihad isn’t as simple as clicking a button. Follow this “hack” to ensure you aren’t grounded:

Check Before You Book: Call Etihad Support first to confirm there is a pet slot available on your desired dates.
The “Flex” Ticket: Buy a ticket with an open or flexible date just in case your pet’s paperwork takes longer than expected.
The Booking Form: At least 7 days before departure, fill out the official Etihad Pet Booking Form.
Confirm the Slot: If you don’t get an email confirmation within 24 hours, email pets@etihad.ae with your booking code to lock in that slot.
The 72-Hour Deadline: All documents must be emailed to the “Pets” team no later than 72 hours before takeoff.

Documentation & Health Requirements

You’ll need a folder full of “paws-port” papers. Make sure you have:

Microchip: Must be ISO-compliant.
Rabies Vaccination: Must be valid and administered at least 21 days before travel.
Rabies Titer Test: Mandatory if you are traveling from a “high-risk” country.
Health Certificate: A government-accredited veterinary certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
Import Permit: If flying into Abu Dhabi, you need a permit from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).

🛑 The “No-Fly” List (Banned Breeds)

For safety and health reasons, Etihad does not accept certain breeds, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities or aggressive tendencies:

Restricted Dog Breeds: Pit Bulls, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, Mastiffs (all types), and Japanese Tosa.
Brachycephalic Note: While some snub-nosed breeds can fly in the cabin (under 8kg), they are strictly prohibited from traveling in the cargo hold.

💡 Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Flight

The “Allergy” Rule: If a passenger on board has a certified animal allergy, the guest who booked their reservation first gets priority. Book early to ensure you aren’t bumped!
Dry Food Only: You can carry dry pet food in your cabin bag, but it must be in a sealed, odor-proof container.
Absorbent Mats: Line your carrier with extra-thick pads. Etihad requires the pet to stay inside the carrier for the entire duration of the flight.

Read here how to transport a dangerous breed of dog to another country. But keep in mind that not all countries accept dangerous breeds of dogs. Read more about which countries ban the import of such dogs here.

Official page with rules for transporting pets