Learn · updated 2026-10-23
How long does it take to move a dog out of the UAE?
Anything from about 10 days to more than 7 months, depending on where you are going and whether your dog's rabies vaccine is already valid. Australia and New Zealand need the longest runway.
Minimum lead time by destination
| Destination | From scratch | Already vaccinated | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | about 25 days | about 10 days | 21-day wait after rabies vaccine; health certificate within 10 days |
| European Union | about 25 days | about 10 days | 21-day wait; EU health certificate within 10 days |
| Russia | about 21 days | about 14 days | Rabies vaccine at least 20 days before; vet exam within 14 days |
| Canada | about 30 days | about 7 days | Rabies certificate needed; no official wait found, so we plan a buffer |
| United States | about 58 days | about 28 days | UAE is CDC high-risk: titer test at least 28 days before arrival |
| New Zealand | about 6+ months | about 6+ months | Official microchip check at least 6 months before shipment |
| Australia | about 7 months | about 6 months | Export at least 180 days after the rabies blood sample reaches the lab |
The mistake that costs the most time
Starting late on a long route. For Australia and New Zealand the clock is set by the rabies blood test and official checks, and nothing can speed it up. If there is any chance you will move there, start the vet steps as soon as you can.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Bringing your pet to Great Britain
- European Commission: Bringing a pet into the EU from a non-EU country
- CDC: Foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries
- DAFF: Rabies vaccination and tests
- MPI: Import Health Standard Cats and Dogs 2026
Rules change. Confirm your plan with your vet and the destination authority before booking.