What Is the Abu Dhabi Pet Registration Law?

In 2026, Abu Dhabi introduced a mandatory pet registration requirement for all domestic animal owners in the emirate. Under this regulation, every cat, dog and other registered domestic animal must be officially registered through the Abu Dhabi government's digital services platform, TAMM. The law applies to both UAE nationals and expatriate residents, and non-compliance can result in financial penalties.

The regulation is part of a broader effort by the Abu Dhabi government to improve responsible pet rehoming standards, reduce abandonment, and create a traceable record of domestic animals in the emirate. It aligns with international best practices in responsible pet ownership.

What Does TAMM Pet Registration Require?

To register your pet through TAMM, you will need the following:

A valid Emirates ID (for UAE residents) or passport (for visitors)
A microchip implanted in your pet — this is mandatory and must be done by a licensed veterinarian
A valid vaccination record, including rabies vaccination
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinary clinic in Abu Dhabi
Proof of ownership or adoption documentation

The registration is completed online through the TAMM portal at tamm.abudhabi. Once registered, your pet receives an official registration number linked to their microchip, which is stored in the Abu Dhabi government's central animal registry.

How Much Does Pet Registration Cost in Abu Dhabi?

The TAMM registration fee varies depending on the type and number of animals. As of 2026, registration fees are set by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA). The microchipping procedure, if not already done, is an additional cost and must be carried out by a licensed veterinary clinic. Pawspact Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi offers microchipping, neutering/spaying, vaccinations and health certificates as part of their comprehensive veterinary services.

What Happens If You Don't Register Your Pet?

Unregistered pets in Abu Dhabi are subject to fines under the 2026 regulation. In cases where an animal is found without a microchip or registration, the owner may be required to register immediately and pay a penalty. Repeated non-compliance can result in higher fines. The regulation is enforced by ADAFSA and municipal authorities.

How Refqan Helps With Pet Registration

One of the key benefits of adopting through Refqan is that every pet listed on the platform has already been vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered or spayed by Pawspact Veterinary Clinic before being listed. Caregivers who list pets on Refqan provide full documentation — including vaccination records, microchip numbers, and neuter/spay certificates — so that the new owner can complete the TAMM registration transfer smoothly.

The small adoption fee charged through Refqan goes entirely toward the cost of this veterinary care — vaccinations, microchipping, neutering or spaying, and welfare while in care. It is not a profit — it is a contribution to responsible pet rehoming that ensures every pet is fully prepared for its new home and compliant with Abu Dhabi law from day one.

Pawspact Veterinary Clinic, the organisation behind Refqan, provides full registration support as part of their veterinary services. If you adopt a pet through Refqan and need assistance with TAMM registration, you can book an appointment at Pawspact to complete the process with professional guidance.

Registering a Pet You Have Already Adopted

If you have recently adopted a pet and have not yet completed TAMM registration, the process is straightforward. You will need to visit a licensed veterinary clinic to have your pet microchipped (if not already done) and obtain a health certificate. You can then complete the registration online through TAMM. The entire process typically takes one to two business days once all documentation is in order.

Registering a Pet You Are Rehoming

If you are listing a pet for adoption on Refqan, it is a requirement that your pet is vaccinated, microchipped, and neutered or spayed before listing. This protects the welfare of the animal, ensures compliance with Abu Dhabi law, and makes the adoption process faster and easier for the new owner. Refqan's listing form includes fields for microchip number, vaccination status, neuter/spay status and TAMM registration status so that potential adopters can see the full picture before applying.

Key Dates and Deadlines

The 2026 pet registration requirement applies to all pets currently owned in Abu Dhabi. Pet owners who have not yet registered their animals are advised to do so as soon as possible to avoid penalties. New pets acquired after the regulation came into effect must be registered within 30 days of acquisition.

Need Help? Contact Pawspact

Pawspact Veterinary Clinic is a licensed veterinary practice in Abu Dhabi that specialises in pet health, welfare and adoption support. If you have questions about TAMM registration, microchipping, neutering/spaying, or the 2026 pet law, you can visit pawspactvet.com or contact the clinic directly. For pet adoption in Abu Dhabi, visit refqan.ae.

Abu Dhabi Pet Registration Law 2026: Everything You Need to Know