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Bringing a cat from the USA to the UAE: rules 2026

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Taking a cat from the USA to the UAE requires an import permit from the UAE MOCCAE but no titer test and no quarantine. Cats have no breed restrictions in the UAE, making this a manageable route for expat cat owners.

From the origin country. From the USA: No titer test required for cats from the USA entering the UAE. You need: ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (within the last 12 months), an import permit from the UAE MOCCAE, and an official health certificate endorsed by USDA APHIS.

Destination requirements

  1. Import permit FIRST (MOCCAE portal; valid 30 days — some sources say 90, verify).
  2. ISO microchip — the rabies vaccination must come strictly AFTER the chip.
  3. Age ≥15 weeks at import; vaccinate at ≥12 weeks; ≥21 days after the vaccine before travel.
  4. Titer (RSNT) — from non-controlled countries; ≥0.5 IU/ml. Exempt: UK, Germany, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Sweden, NZ, Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal (verify the full list).
  5. Other vaccines: dogs — distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis; cats — panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus. Parasite treatment within 14 days.
  6. Limit: 2 cats / 2 dogs / 1+1 per person per year.
  7. Breed ban: Pit Bulls, mastiffs (Fila, Dogo Argentino), Tosa, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Presa Canario, Boxers and crosses.
  8. Cargo only (not cabin). No quarantine if requirements are met.

Official sources

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FAQ

Do I need a titer test to bring a cat from the USA to the UAE?

No. The UAE does not require a titer test for cats from the USA.

Are there breed restrictions for cats in the UAE?

No. The UAE's pet breed restrictions apply to dogs, not cats.

How do I get the UAE import permit for a cat?

Apply through the UAE MOCCAE portal. You need the cat's microchip number, vaccination records and owner details. Allow 2–4 weeks.

Is there quarantine for cats from the USA in the UAE?

No quarantine for cats with a valid import permit, microchip, rabies vaccination and health certificate.

Related

Full UAE requirementsDog from USA to UAECat from USA to Germany

We provide information only and do not offer relocation services. Rules change — always confirm with the official source above.

Updated 2026-06-20