Pet Registration in Abu Dhabi: Complete Guide 2026

If you live in Abu Dhabi and own a dog or cat, pet registration with Abu Dhabi Municipality is mandatory. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the pet registration process in Abu Dhabi.

Why Register Your Pet in Abu Dhabi?

Pet registration in Abu Dhabi is required by law under Abu Dhabi Municipality regulations. Registration helps:

Reunite lost pets with owners through microchip databases
Track vaccination records and prevent disease outbreaks
Ensure responsible pet ownership across the emirate
Facilitate emergency response if your pet is found injured

Legal Requirement: All dogs and cats in Abu Dhabi must be registered within 30 days of acquisition or birth.

Abu Dhabi Pet Registration Requirements

To register your pet with Abu Dhabi Municipality, you need:

1. Microchip

ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip implanted by licensed veterinarian
Microchip number must be recorded on all documents
Cost: AED 50-150 at veterinary clinics

2. Rabies Vaccination

Valid rabies vaccination certificate
Must be administered by licensed veterinarian in UAE
Annual renewal required
Cost: AED 80-150

3. Owner Identification

Emirates ID (original and copy)
Proof of residence in Abu Dhabi (Ejari certificate or title deed)
Contact phone number and email

4. Pet Information

Pet species (dog/cat)
Breed
Age and date of birth
Color and distinguishing marks
Recent photograph

Abu Dhabi Pet Registration Process

Online Registration (Recommended)

Step 1: Visit the Abu Dhabi Municipality website (www.am.gov.ae)

Step 2: Navigate to Services → Pet Registration

Step 3: Create an account or log in with UAE Pass

Step 4: Complete the online registration form with:

Owner details (Emirates ID, contact information)
Pet details (microchip number, breed, age, photo)
Vaccination certificate upload (PDF or image)

Step 5: Pay registration fee online (AED 100 for first year)

Step 6: Receive registration certificate via email within 3-5 business days

In-Person Registration

Visit any Abu Dhabi Municipality Customer Service Center:

Main Centers:

Al Bateen Customer Service Center
Khalidiya Customer Service Center
Mohammed Bin Zayed City Center
Al Ain Municipality Centers

Required Documents:

Emirates ID (original)
Proof of residence
Veterinary vaccination certificate (original)
Pet microchip certificate
Passport-size photo of pet

Processing Time: Same day (certificate issued immediately)

Pet Registration Fees in Abu Dhabi

Initial Registration: AED 100 per pet per year
Annual Renewal: AED 100 per pet per year
Microchipping: AED 50-150 (at veterinary clinic)
Rabies Vaccination: AED 80-150 (at veterinary clinic)
Late Registration Penalty: AED 200-500

Payment Methods: Credit/debit card, cash (in-person only)

Annual Renewal Requirements

Pet registration must be renewed annually. You will receive renewal reminders via SMS and email.

Renewal Process:

Update rabies vaccination (if expired)
Log in to Abu Dhabi Municipality portal
Select pet renewal option
Upload updated vaccination certificate
Pay AED 100 renewal fee
Receive updated certificate

Renewal Deadline: 30 days before expiration to avoid penalties

Penalties for Non-Registration

Failure to register your pet in Abu Dhabi can result in:

First Offense: AED 200 fine
Repeat Offense: AED 500 fine
Unvaccinated Pet: Additional AED 500 fine
No Microchip: Additional AED 300 fine

Special Considerations

Multiple Pets

Each pet requires separate registration. Discounts are not available for multiple pets.

Moving to Abu Dhabi

If relocating from another emirate, register within 30 days of moving. Previous registration from Dubai or other emirates does not transfer.

Adopted Pets

When adopting through Refqan or other rescue organizations, ensure the pet is microchipped and vaccinated before registration. Most rescue organizations provide these services before adoption.

Dangerous Dog Breeds

Certain breeds require additional permits. Contact Abu Dhabi Municipality for breed-specific regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I register my pet before microchipping?
A: No. Microchipping must be completed before registration.

Q: What if I lose my registration certificate?
A: Request a duplicate through the online portal for AED 50.

Q: Do indoor cats need registration?
A: Yes. All cats in Abu Dhabi require registration regardless of indoor/outdoor status.

Q: Can tourists register pets temporarily?
A: Temporary registration is not available. Only UAE residents can register pets.

Contact Abu Dhabi Municipality

Customer Service: 800-555
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.am.gov.ae
Working Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Adopt a Registered Pet Through Refqan

When you adopt a pet through Refqan, many rescue caregivers provide pets that are already microchipped and vaccinated, making the registration process simpler. Browse available pets in Abu Dhabi on Refqan today!

Ready to adopt? Visit Refqan.ae to find your perfect companion and start the registration process with confidence.