EU pets: The UAE is not in the EU, so an EU pet passport alone is not enough. All visitors need a MOCCAE import permit (Ministry of Climate Change and Environment), an ISO microchip implanted before the rabies shot, a current rabies vaccination given at least 21 days before travel, core vaccinations and an official health certificate. EU and other low-risk-country residents (Germany, France, UK, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and similar) are generally exempt from the rabies titer blood test.
Non-EU pets: Residents of higher-risk countries, notably the USA, also need the MOCCAE import permit, ISO microchip, rabies vaccination, core vaccinations and health certificate, plus a rabies titer (blood) test done at least 21 days after vaccination and within the required window before travel. Several breeds are banned from import (pit bull types, American Staffordshire, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa and others). Most pets arrive via Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi, not the small RAK airport. Check the official MOCCAE rules before booking.
Emergency contacts:- Vets24 Veterinary Clinic, Ras Al Khaimah (24/7 emergency line): +971 7 243 6600 / +971 50 487 6041
- RAK Animal Welfare Centre (RAKAWC) clinic: +971 7 243 3184
- Modern Vet, Al Wasl Hospital, Dubai (24h, ~1h drive): 800-82
- Police / ambulance / general emergencies: 999 / 998
