If you have a cat or a dog in Dubai, pet microchipping is not optional. Dubai Municipality requires cats and dogs to be microchipped, vaccinated and registered, and the registration has to be renewed every year. The good news is that the whole process is quick and is done through a licensed vet clinic. This guide explains what a microchip is, how pet registration in Dubai works, what to bring to your appointment and how to keep your pet's details up to date.
What is a pet microchip?
A pet microchip is a tiny electronic chip, about the size of a grain of rice, placed under the skin between the shoulder blades. It holds a unique number that a vet or shelter can read with a scanner. That number links to your contact details, so a lost pet can be identified and returned to you.
The chip has no battery and does not track your pet's location. It only works when someone scans it, which is why keeping your contact details up to date matters just as much as the chip itself.
Is microchipping mandatory in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai Municipality requires cats and dogs to be microchipped, vaccinated and registered, with the licence renewed every year. The microchip number is what links your pet to its registration record. Without a chip, your pet cannot be registered, and you may also run into problems if you ever want to travel with your pet.
Microchipping and registration are also needed for travel. Pets leaving or entering the UAE should be microchipped and registered in the approved system, with up to date vaccinations and a veterinary health certificate.
Does microchipping hurt my pet?
Microchipping feels similar to a routine vaccination for most pets. The chip goes in with a needle in a few seconds and no anaesthetic is usually needed. Your pet may feel a short pinch and then carry on as normal. Many owners choose to have it done during a vaccination visit or while their pet is already under anaesthesia for a procedure such as neutering.
How do I register my pet with Dubai Municipality?
To register your pet in Dubai, visit a licensed vet clinic with your pet, your Emirates ID or passport with a valid residence visa, and your pet's vaccination card. The vet scans or places the microchip, confirms the vaccinations are current and submits your pet's details to Dubai Municipality. You then receive the registration record for your pet.
What documents do I need to register my pet?
You will usually need your Emirates ID or passport with a valid UAE residence visa, your pet's vaccination card or record, and your pet's details such as name, breed, age and microchip number. If your pet came from abroad, bring any import or travel documents too. Your vet will tell you if anything else is required.
Emirates ID or passport with a valid residence visa, your pet's vaccination card, and your pet's name, breed, age and microchip number. Add any import or travel papers if your pet came from abroad.
How often do I need to renew pet registration in Dubai?
Pet registration in Dubai is renewed every year. Renewal is a good moment to bring your pet in for its annual check-up and booster vaccinations at the same time, because current vaccinations are part of the registration. Set a reminder a few weeks before the renewal date so it never lapses.
Not sure which vaccinations are due? Our guides to the dog vaccination schedule in Dubai and cat vaccinations in the UAE explain what your pet needs and when.
What should I do if I move or change my phone number?
If you move house or change your phone number, update your pet's microchip and registration details as soon as possible. A chip only helps if the number it links to is correct. Ask your vet to update the record for you, and keep a photo of your pet's registration and microchip number on your phone.
What happens if my pet gets lost?
If your pet gets lost, contact local vet clinics, animal shelters and Dubai Municipality straight away, and share your pet's photo and microchip number. When someone finds a pet and brings it to a clinic, the chip is scanned and the owner is contacted using the registered details. Up to date details make a fast reunion far more likely.
Where can I get my pet microchipped in Jumeirah?
You can get your cat or dog microchipped at Alpha Vet on 2nd December Street, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Our vets can microchip and vaccinate your pet in one appointment and check that the chip reads correctly. Book a visit online or call the clinic to choose a time that suits you.
Read more about vaccinations at Alpha Vet or book an appointment online.
Frequently asked questions
Do cats need to be microchipped in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai Municipality requires both cats and dogs to be microchipped, vaccinated and registered, with the registration renewed every year.
At what age can a puppy or kitten be microchipped?
Puppies and kittens can usually be microchipped at their first vaccination visits. Your vet will advise on the right time for your pet.
Can a microchip track my pet's location?
No. A microchip has no battery and no GPS. It only shares its ID number when scanned by a vet or shelter.
How long does a microchip last?
A microchip is designed to last for your pet's whole life. Your vet can scan it at check-ups to make sure it still reads correctly.