Emirates allows cats and dogs to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage on most flights, but strict rules, fees, and booking requirements apply. You must reserve your pet’s travel at least 48 hours before departure, and acceptance depends on the destination, aircraft type, and the pet’s size and breed.
Background: How Emirates Handles Pet Travel
Emirates operates one of the largest international networks in the world, and its pet policy is designed to meet both airline safety standards and international animal transport regulations. The airline does not treat pets as ordinary cargo; instead, they are carried in the temperature-controlled baggage hold (as checked baggage) or, for small cats and dogs, in the cabin on certain routes. Emirates does not accept pets as excess baggage—they are always booked as a separate item with a dedicated fee.
Emirates SkyCargo handles animals that travel as freight, but that is a separate service from passenger pet travel. For passenger flights, the pet travels on the same aircraft as you, but in the hold unless it qualifies for cabin travel.
Which Pets Can Travel and Where
Emirates accepts only domesticated cats and dogs. No other animals (birds, rabbits, reptiles, etc.) are allowed in the cabin or as checked baggage on passenger flights. The main distinction is between cabin and checked baggage:
- Cabin travel: Allowed for cats and small dogs weighing up to 8 kg (including the carrier) on most flights. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you (max dimensions 55 x 38 x 23 cm). Only a limited number of pets are allowed in the cabin per flight, so early booking is essential.
- Checked baggage: For pets over 8 kg or when cabin space is unavailable. The pet travels in a pressurized, temperature-controlled hold. The carrier must be IATA-compliant and large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down.
Some destinations have restrictions. For example, flights to the UK, Ireland, and Hong Kong generally do not allow pets in the cabin. Always check Emirates’ specific destination rules before booking.
How to Book and What It Costs
Booking a pet on Emirates is not done through the standard online booking flow. You must contact Emirates directly (via phone or a local office) at least 48 hours before departure. The airline will confirm availability and add the pet to your reservation. You cannot add a pet to an existing booking online.
Fees vary by route and are non-refundable if you cancel. As a general guide:
- Cabin pet fee: typically USD 115–150 per pet for short-haul flights, and up to USD 500 for long-haul intercontinental flights.
- Checked baggage pet fee: similar range, but can be higher for very large dogs.
These are estimates; the exact fee is quoted when you book. The fee covers the pet’s travel, but not any required health certificates or import permits.
Health, Documentation, and Carrier Requirements
Emirates requires that all pets be at least 16 weeks old (for dogs) and 12 weeks old (for cats) to travel. You must provide a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, plus proof of rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old). Some countries require additional vaccinations or blood tests—for example, the UK requires a rabies titer test.
The carrier must be hard-sided or soft-sided, leak-proof, and well-ventilated. It must have a secure latch and a absorbent lining. For checked baggage, the carrier must be IATA-approved and have food and water dishes attached inside. You cannot feed your pet within 4 hours of departure, but water should be available until check-in.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
One of the most frequent issues is booking too late. Because only a few pets are allowed per flight, especially in the cabin, last-minute requests are often rejected. Another issue is incorrect carrier size—if the pet cannot stand or turn, Emirates may refuse carriage at check-in.
Breed restrictions also catch owners by surprise. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats are banned from checked baggage on Emirates due to high risk of respiratory distress. Some short-nosed breeds may be allowed in the cabin if they fit, but many airlines, including Emirates, discourage it. If you have a flat-faced pet, you may need to use a specialized pet transport service.
Transit and layovers are another common problem. If you have a connection, your pet may be transferred to another airline or held in a quarantine facility. Emirates will not accept pets on codeshare flights operated by other airlines unless that airline also accepts pets. Always confirm the entire itinerary is pet-friendly.
Comparing Emirates to Other Airlines
Emirates is more restrictive than some airlines but more accommodating than others. For example, Lufthansa allows pets in the cabin on long-haul flights, and Air France is known for accepting pets in the cabin on many routes. On the other hand, budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet do not accept pets at all (except service dogs). Emirates’ checked baggage service is generally reliable, but its cabin pet allowance is limited to small pets and only on certain aircraft.
One unique aspect of Emirates is that it does not allow pets to travel as excess baggage—they are always booked as a separate item. This is similar to Qatar Airways and Etihad, but different from some US airlines where pets can be added as excess baggage.
Safety and Comfort Tips
To make the journey as safe and comfortable as possible:
- Use a carrier that is approved by IATA and the airline. Write “Live Animal” on the top and sides.
- Attach a photo of your pet and your contact details to the carrier in case the label is lost.
- Do not give sedatives unless prescribed by your vet—sedation can cause breathing problems at altitude.
- Line the carrier with absorbent padding and include a familiar toy or blanket.
- Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure to allow time for check-in and any inspections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my pet fly in the cabin with me on Emirates?
Yes, but only if your pet is a cat or small dog weighing up to 8 kg (including carrier) and your flight allows cabin pets. The carrier must fit under the seat. Many long-haul flights to the US, Canada, and Australia allow cabin pets, but some destinations like the UK do not. You must book by phone and confirm availability.
What is the maximum pet size for Emirates checked baggage?
There is no strict weight limit, but the carrier must be large enough for the pet to stand, turn, and lie down. The total weight (pet + carrier) cannot exceed 75 kg for checked baggage. For larger animals, you would need to use Emirates SkyCargo freight service.
Are flat-faced dogs allowed on Emirates?
No, brachycephalic breeds (e.g., pugs, bulldogs, boxers, shih tzus) are not accepted in checked baggage due to breathing risks. Some may be allowed in the cabin if they fit under the seat, but Emirates may still refuse for safety. Check with the airline before booking.
How much does it cost to fly a pet with Emirates?
Fees vary by route and are set per pet. For short-haul flights, expect around USD 115–150 for cabin pets. For long-haul flights, fees can be up to USD 500. Checked baggage fees are similar. The exact amount is quoted when you book by phone.
Can I take my pet on an Emirates codeshare flight?
No, Emirates’ pet policy applies only to flights operated by Emirates itself. If your itinerary includes a codeshare flight operated by another airline, that airline’s pet policy applies. You must check with the operating carrier and ensure they accept pets.
Emirates Pet Travel Checklist Template
| Item | Details | Done |
|---|---|---|
| Book pet with Emirates by phone | At least 48 hours before departure | |
| Health certificate | Issued within 10 days of travel | |
| Rabies vaccination | At least 30 days old | |
| Carrier size | IATA-approved, fits under seat (cabin) or allows standing/turning (hold) | |
| Destination import permit | Check with embassy/consulate | |
| Label carrier with “Live Animal” and contact info | Attach photo of pet |
Sample (fictional): For a 6 kg cat flying from Dubai to London on 15 March, the owner booked by phone on 10 March, obtained a health certificate on 12 March, and used a soft carrier 50x35x25 cm. The cat’s rabies shot was given on 1 February. The UK import permit was obtained via the government website.