Flying with your pet in-cabin into the UAE? It's true!

We ♥️ Etihad.

The UAE previously only accepted animals arriving as manifest cargo on commercial airlines. All that changed when Etihad introduced the option to fly with your pet, in cabin, into Abu Dhabi International Airport.

This means that owners of pets under 8kg can book space for them to accompany them on their flight. It's worth noting that it doesn't apply to all routes so you will need to check before you book. It has given a much needed option to the owners of small snub nose cats and dogs who often find it hard to find airlines who will take their pets as cargo.

This does not however mean that you can arrive with pets as in-hold or in-cabin with other airlines and hefty fines still apply if you try to do this. Keep up-to-date with the latest developments by following us on social media or getting in contact before you plan to travel.

You must submit your request to fly with your pet in the cabin at least 7 days in advance and remember there is no guarantee that there will be space so book as early as you can to avoid disappointment. This is a highly popular service!

Paperwork and customs clearance.

Do not try to enter or re-enter the UAE without the appropriate paperwork, your pet could be sent back to the airport that you travelled from

You must secure an import permit before entering the UAE and you must have an official government/ministry vet in the country you are travelling from certify a health certificate in the format set out by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Some countries have an agreed Health Certificate (e.g. United Kingdom) otherwise the format should follow the MOCCAE model and will contain vital information about your pet's vaccination history.

Is your dog or cat over 8kg?

Flying with your pet in the cabin is still possible through shared pay-per-seat charters or completely private jets. Companies like K9 Jets, SkyNine, Skye Pet Travel and BarkAir allow you to fly with your pet in the cabin, regardless of the size of your pet. Please email us for more details on the latest schedules or check out our charter page.