Saudia Airlines, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, allows pets to travel both in the cabin and as checked baggage, but their rules differ significantly from many Western airlines.
The most critical point to know upfront: dogs are not permitted in the cabin at all.
Only cats and small birds can travel with you under the seat. For all other pets, including dogs, the only option is the aircraft hold. This guide breaks down the Saudia pet policy, fees, and process to help you navigate it smoothly.
Quick Reference: Saudia Pet Travel at a Glance
- In-Cabin Pets: Cats and small birds only (with permits). Dogs are not allowed.
- Weight Limit (Cabin): 5 kg (11 lbs) pet and carrier combined.
- Carrier Dimensions (Cabin): Maximum 52.5 cm x 32.5 cm x 40 cm (21 in x 13 in x 16 in).
- Fees (Domestic/International excl. US/Canada): $100 USD cabin, $300 USD checked baggage.
- Booking Method: Phone only via Saudia sales office or call center at +966 9200 22222.
- Breed Restrictions: Saudi Arabia prohibits English Bulldog, Boxer, Rottweiler, all Terrier breeds, Akita, Japanese Spitz, and select small breeds from import.
In-Cabin Pet Policy on Saudia Airlines
If you plan to have your pet in the cabin with you on Saudia, your options are limited to cats and small birds. The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs).
This is a strict limit enforced at check-in. Only one pet per passenger is allowed, and it must remain in its carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.
Carrier Requirements and Specifications
Your pet’s carrier must meet specific requirements. It must be leak-proof, well-ventilated on multiple sides, and have secure fasteners. A waterproof bottom with an absorbent pad is mandatory. Both soft-sided and hard-sided kennels are acceptable as long as they meet the following maximum dimensions: 52.5 cm long x 32.5 cm wide x 40 cm high (21 in x 13 in x 16 in).
Given the tight weight budget, a lightweight, soft-sided carrier is often the best choice to maximize the weight available for your actual pet. Ensure it is sturdy and clearly labeled.
Pro Tip: With an 11 lb total limit, your actual pet’s weight is closer to 7-8 lbs once you account for a decent carrier. Weigh everything before you call to book. There is no wiggle room at the airport.
How to Book Your Pet on Saudia Flights
You cannot add a pet online. Saudia requires you to book pet travel by phone while making your own reservation, as space for pets is limited.
- Contact Saudia when booking your ticket: Call the Saudia call center at +966 9200 22222 or your nearest Saudia sales office. Inform them immediately that you will be traveling with a pet.
- Confirm space availability: The agent will check if there is space for a pet on your desired flights. Not all aircraft or routes accommodate pets.
- Provide pet details: Specify the type of pet (cat or bird), approximate weight, and carrier dimensions.
- Get booking confirmation: Ensure your booking reference notes the pet reservation. Request written confirmation if possible.
- Prepare required documentation: Gather health certificate, vaccination records, and Saudi import permit (NAAMA registration) well in advance.
- Arrive early at the airport: Check in at the ticket counter at least 3 hours before international departure. Present all documents and pay the pet fee.
Pro Tip: Call during Saudi business hours for the shortest hold times. Have your travel dates, flight numbers, and pet details written down before you dial. This process can take considerable time.
Saudia Pet Fees: Cabin, Checked Baggage, and Cargo
Saudia charges flat rates for most routes, excluding flights to and from the United States and Canada. Fees are paid at the airport during check-in.
| Travel Type | Route Category | Fee (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Cabin | Domestic & International (excl. US/Canada) | $100 | Flat fee per one-way segment. Cats and birds only. |
| Checked Baggage (Hold) | Domestic & International (excl. US/Canada) | $300 | Flat fee per one-way segment. Dogs, cats, birds. |
| Manifest Cargo | All Routes | Contact Saudia Cargo | For unaccompanied pets or large shipments. Fee based on weight and destination. Call +966 92000 3111. |
| Service Dogs | All Routes | Free | For blind or deaf passengers only. Must travel in hold on international flights. 48-hour advance notice required. |
Fees for travel to and from the United States and Canada are listed separately by the airline. Contact Saudia directly at +966 9200 22222 to confirm current pricing for these routes before booking.
Checked Baggage and Cargo Travel for Pets
This is the only option for dogs and for any pet exceeding the cabin’s 5 kg (11 lbs) limit. Pets traveling as checked baggage fly in a pressurized, temperature-controlled compartment. The kennel requirements follow IATA (International Air Transport Association) live animal regulations.
Crate Specifications
- Materials: Must be an IATA-compliant, rigid kennel made of fiberglass, metal, hard plastic, or solid wood.
- Door: Spring-loaded locking door mechanism required.
- Floor: Waterproof floor with absorbent material.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation holes on all sides.
- Wheels: No wheels permitted on the crate.
- Labeling: Must be clearly marked “LIVE ANIMAL” with arrows indicating upright position. Attach feeding instructions and a photo of your pet.
For brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds, Saudia requires a crate that is one size larger than the standard IATA recommendation for the animal’s dimensions to ensure adequate airflow.
Temperature and Seasonal Restrictions
Saudia will not accept pets for travel if the ground temperature at any point on the itinerary exceeds 29.4°C (85°F) or falls below 7.2°C (45°F). For travel in colder conditions between 7.2°C and -6.6°C (45°F and 20°F), an acclimation certificate signed by a veterinarian is mandatory. Travel is prohibited if temperatures are forecast to be below -6.6°C (20°F). Plan your travel outside of extreme summer and winter months to avoid embargoes. Verify current temperature restrictions with Saudia before booking.
Saudi Arabia Import Rules and Breed Restrictions
Saudia’s own policy does not list specific banned breeds. However, Saudi Arabian import regulations prohibit many breeds from entering the country.
Since you must comply with destination laws, these restrictions effectively apply to your Saudia flight if you are entering Saudi Arabia.
Breeds prohibited from import to Saudi Arabia include: English Bulldog, Boxer, Rottweiler, Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, all other Terrier breeds, Akita, Japanese Spitz, Affenpinscher, Griffon Bruxellois, Hovawart, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, and Chihuahua. Note that some small breeds may be accepted at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh but not at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah or King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam.
If you are flying a dog to Saudi Arabia, you must verify its breed eligibility with Saudi authorities through the NAAMA platform well before booking your flight. This is separate from the airline’s policy and is strictly enforced at entry.
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals
Service Dogs
Saudia accepts trained guide or hearing dogs for blind or deaf passengers. Documentation, including a health certificate and destination permits, is required with 48 hours’ advance notice. While there is no fee, service dogs are not permitted in the cabin on international flights and must travel in a crate in the aircraft hold. For flights to and from the United States, you must submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and Relief Attestation Form at least 48 hours before departure.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Saudia does not recognize emotional support animals. Following changes to US DOT regulations, ESAs are treated as regular pets. This means they are subject to all standard pet fees, carrier or crate requirements, and travel restrictions. Since dogs cannot travel in the cabin, an ESA dog would need to travel in the hold as checked baggage with the $300 USD fee (for routes excluding US/Canada).
Required Health Documents and Check-In Process
Documentation Checklist
- Valid Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian. Timing requirements vary by destination, typically within 10 days of travel. Must state the pet is fit to fly and free of contagious diseases.
- Rabies Vaccination Proof: Must be current. Some destinations require a rabies titer test.
- Import Permit for Saudi Arabia: Register on the NAAMA platform and obtain an import permit. The health certificate requires attestation by the Saudi embassy or consulate in your country of origin.
- Acclimation Certificate: Required for hold travel when ground temperatures are between 7.2°C and -6.6°C (45°F and 20°F).
- Ministry Permits for Birds: Birds entering Saudi Arabia require special permits from the Saudi Ministry.
Airport Check-In Process
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight. You must check in at the ticket counter. Online check-in is not available when traveling with a pet. Present all documents for inspection. An agent will examine the carrier or crate, collect the pet fee, and provide a baggage tag for the kennel. Expect the process to take extra time.
Route and Aircraft Restrictions
Not all Saudia flights can accommodate pets. Pets are not permitted in the cabin on flights to Bahrain (cargo only). Birds require special permits from the Saudi Ministry to enter the Kingdom. Pets are not accepted in the hold on certain aircraft types, including the Airbus A330-300, MD-90, and some Boeing 737 configurations. This is why confirming availability when you book is absolutely critical. Call Saudia at +966 9200 22222 to verify your specific flight can accommodate your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions: Saudia Pet Policy
Can I bring my pet in the cabin on Saudia Airlines?
Yes, but only cats and small birds are allowed in the cabin. The combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs). Dogs are not permitted in the cabin under any circumstances. Advance booking by phone is required.
How much does Saudia charge for pets?
For domestic and international routes excluding the US and Canada, Saudia charges $100 USD for in-cabin pets and $300 USD for pets traveling as checked baggage in the hold. Fees for US and Canada routes must be confirmed directly with Saudia. Manifest cargo fees vary by weight and destination.
What are Saudia’s pet carrier size requirements?
For in-cabin travel, the maximum carrier dimensions are 52.5 cm x 32.5 cm x 40 cm (21 in x 13 in x 16 in). The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated on multiple sides, have secure fasteners, and include a waterproof bottom with an absorbent pad. For hold travel, crates must meet IATA live animal regulations.
Does Saudia allow emotional support animals?
No. Saudia does not recognize emotional support animals. ESAs are treated as regular pets and are subject to all standard pet fees, carrier requirements, and travel restrictions. Since dogs cannot travel in the cabin, an ESA dog would need to travel in the hold.
What documents do I need to fly with my pet on Saudia?
You need a veterinarian-issued health certificate, proof of current rabies vaccination, and for entry into Saudi Arabia, an import permit obtained through the NAAMA online platform. The health certificate must be attested by the Saudi embassy or consulate. Birds require additional permits from the Saudi Ministry. Start this documentation process weeks in advance.
Can I book my pet on Saudia online?
No. You must contact Saudia by phone via their call center at +966 9200 22222 or a sales office to add a pet to your reservation. This must be done while booking your ticket, as space for pets is limited.
This article is for informational purposes only. Airline pet policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Saudia Airlines before booking.
