Key step It blocks other steps, or costs money if you miss it.

How to export your pet from the UAE

Start with your destination’s import rules: some countries need a rabies antibody test and waiting periods that take months. On the UAE side you need a valid microchip and rabies vaccine, and a MOCCAE veterinary health certificate, issued after a check of your pet at the airport a few days before the flight.

When
4 months to 2 months before your flight
Time
Several vet visits
Cost
Vet, MOCCAE certificate (AED 100 for one or two pets), crate and flight

Do it on MOCCAEThe official page, in a new tab

Have ready

  • Vaccination card
  • Microchip number
  • UAE PASS
  • Payment receipt for the MOCCAE application

How to do it

  1. Check the import rules of your destination country first (microchip, rabies, titre test, tapeworm, waiting period).
  2. Confirm the pet is microchipped and the rabies vaccine is valid on the travel date. Destinations set their own wait after vaccination, often 21 to 30 days, and many ask for an ISO 15-digit chip.
  3. Ask your airline how the pet can travel (cabin, checked baggage or cargo), or use a relocation company; buy an IATA-approved crate.
  4. A few days before travel, apply on the MOCCAE website with UAE PASS for the veterinary health certificate for exporting live animals, and pay online. Then take the pet, its vaccination book and the payment receipt to the MOCCAE vet at the airport, at least 48 hours before the flight. The vet checks the pet and issues the certificate.
  5. Carry printed copies of everything to the airport.

Watch out

  • The MOCCAE health certificate is valid for 30 days, but your destination may want it issued closer to the flight. Check before you book the airport visit.
Short on time?What to do if you’re starting late

Call a pet relocation company today; if your destination needs a titre test, your pet may have to follow later.

Questions people ask

How long does it take to export a pet from the UAE?

The UAE side takes days; your destination’s rules decide the rest, and some need months for a rabies antibody test.

How long is the MOCCAE health certificate valid?

30 days from issue. Your destination may set a shorter window.

How much does the MOCCAE certificate cost?

AED 100 per certificate for one or two pets travelling with their owner, AED 400 otherwise, plus vet, crate and flight costs.

Sources

Official: MOCCAE export and import services

Also checked against: Cabinet Resolution 152 of 2025: MOCCAE fees · Khaleej Times: MOCCAE certificate, 30-day validity and airport check

Outro is an independent guide, not a government service or legal advice. If an official page says something different, follow it and .