Emirates Pet Policy (2025): Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Planning to travel with your pet on Emirates? Whether you have a small pet, a service animal, or need to transport your pet as cargo, understanding Emirates’ pet policy is essential for a smooth journey. This guide covers cabin pet travel, cargo transport, breed restrictions, and international travel regulations to help you prepare.

Emirates Pet Policy

1. Carry-On Pet Policy (In-Cabin Travel)

Emirates does not allow pets to travel in the passenger cabin. The only exception is for recognized service dogs, which are permitted to fly in the cabin for free on select routes.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Rules

✔ Allowed Pets: Only fully trained service dogs are allowed in the cabin.
✔ Pet Carrier Restrictions: Not applicable, as no pets (except service dogs) are allowed in the cabin.
✔ Pet Fee: Service dogs travel free, but require pre-approval and proper documentation.
✔ Flight Restrictions: Service dogs are only allowed on specific routes, such as flights to and from the USA and Canada.

How to Book a Service Dog Reservation

✔ Advance Booking: Passengers must notify Emirates at least 48 hours before departure when traveling with a service dog.
✔ Pet Limit: One service dog per passenger is allowed.
✔ Approved Routes: Service dogs can travel to and from the U.S. and Canada in the cabin but must travel as cargo on other international routes.

📌 Tip: Emirates requires official training certification and health documentation for service dogs.

2. Checked Pet Travel & Emirates SkyCargo

Since Emirates does not allow pets in the cabin, all pets (except service dogs) must travel as cargo through Emirates SkyCargo.

Checked Pet Travel Rules

✔ Eligible Pets: Cats, dogs, falcons, and other approved pets can travel as cargo.
✔ Kennel Requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved, hard-sided kennel with proper ventilation.
✔ Temperature Restrictions: Emirates follows strict climate control procedures, but pet travel may be restricted during extreme temperatures.
✔ Booking Requirements: All pet cargo bookings must be made directly through Emirates SkyCargo and at least 72 hours before departure.

Checked Pet Fees

✔ Fees Vary: The cost depends on the size, weight, and route of travel—contact Emirates SkyCargo for pricing.

📌 Tip: If your pet is flying as cargo, ensure they are well-hydrated and comfortable in their crate before the flight.

3. Breed Restrictions & Special Considerations

Certain pet breeds may face restrictions due to safety concerns, particularly short-nosed breeds that are prone to respiratory issues.

Banned & Restricted Breeds

Emirates does not accept brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds for cargo transport, including:
✔ Bulldogs (English, French, and American)
✔ Pugs (all types)
✔ Boxers, Boston Terriers
✔ Persian & Himalayan Cats

Service Animals & Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

✔ Service Animals: Recognized service dogs can fly for free in the cabin on approved routes.
✔ Emotional Support Animals: As of 2021, Emirates no longer accepts ESAs—they must travel as cargo.

📌 Tip: If traveling with a service dog, ensure you submit all required documentation in advance.

4. International Pet Travel Guidelines

Emirates has strict regulations for pets traveling internationally, with many destinations requiring specific entry requirements, quarantine rules, and vaccinations.

Country-Specific Pet Policies

✔ United Arab Emirates (UAE): Pets arriving in the UAE must have a microchip, valid rabies vaccination, and an import permit.
✔ European Union: Requires microchip identification, rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or health certificate.
✔ United States & Canada: Pets must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel and proof of rabies vaccination.
✔ Australia & New Zealand: Strict quarantine rules apply—pets must meet import regulations and may be subject to quarantine upon arrival.

📌 Tip: Research the destination country’s pet import laws well in advance to avoid travel delays or denied entry.

5. How to Prepare Your Pet for Air Travel

Before Your Flight

✔ Confirm Airline & Cargo Requirements: Ensure your pet meets all size and breed regulations.
✔ Visit the Veterinarian: Obtain a health certificate and ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.
✔ Book Early: Emirates SkyCargo has limited pet spaces available, so reserve as early as possible.

Day of Travel

✔ Arrive Early: Check-in for pet cargo travel should be at least 3 hours before departure.
✔ Exercise Your Pet: Allow your pet to walk and relieve itself before check-in.
✔ Use an Absorbent Liner in the Carrier: Helps keep your pet comfortable during travel.

📌 Tip: Place a familiar blanket or toy in the crate to reduce stress and anxiety.

Final Thoughts on Emirates’ Pet Policy

Emirates provides safe and secure pet transport via Emirates SkyCargo, but does not allow pets in the cabin (except service dogs). If you plan to fly with your pet, be sure to check all cargo transport requirements, book early, and confirm international travel regulations.

Key Takeaways

✔ Pets are not allowed in the cabin (except service dogs).
✔ All non-service pets must travel as cargo through Emirates SkyCargo.
✔ Short-nosed breeds are restricted from cargo transport.
✔ International pet travel requires proper documentation and may involve quarantine.
✔ Service dogs fly for free on select routes with valid documentation.

📌 Plan ahead, book early, and ensure your pet meets all airline requirements for a smooth travel experience!