Emirates Pet Policy 2026: Fees, Breed Restrictions & Booking

Yes, Emirates allows pets to fly, but with significant and important restrictions.

The airline does not permit pets in the cabin on most international flights. Instead, the vast majority of animal travel is handled through its cargo division, Emirates SkyCargo. In-cabin travel is an extremely limited option available only on select regional routes, primarily UAE domestic flights. This guide breaks down the complex Emirates pet policy, including exact fees, crate requirements, and the specific booking process you must follow.

Emirates operates out of Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the busiest global hubs with extreme summer temperatures reaching 40°C+ (104°F+). These conditions directly impact pet travel policies, particularly during May through September when heat embargoes are in effect.

Emirates In-Cabin Pet Policy: Extremely Limited Availability

Let’s be clear upfront: if you’re flying internationally with Emirates from or through Dubai, your pet will almost certainly travel as cargo. The airline’s policy explicitly prohibits pets in the cabin on flights to and from major destinations including the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, Brazil, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates itself.

In-cabin pet travel is available only on select regional routes, primarily UAE domestic flights. Even on these routes, your pet must meet strict requirements: maximum weight of 6 kg (13.2 lbs) including the carrier, minimum age of 4 months, and travel in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat. The carrier’s total dimensions (length + width + height) cannot exceed 300 cm (118 in).

For routes where in-cabin travel is permitted, maximum transit time in Dubai cannot exceed 6 hours. If your connection is longer, your pet must be transferred to cargo.

Pro Tip: If having your pet in the cabin is non-negotiable, you may need to consider an alternative airline for your long-haul journey. Emirates’ model is built around its world-class cargo facilities in Dubai, not cabin pet travel.

In-Cabin Carrier Requirements

For the limited routes where cabin travel is available, your carrier must be:

• Soft-sided and able to fit completely under the seat in front of you
• Escape-proof and leak-proof
• Ventilated on at least three surfaces
• Lined with absorbent material

Emirates does not publish specific under-seat dimensions. Contact Emirates at 1-833-534-2451 to verify carrier dimensions for your specific aircraft type before purchasing a carrier.

Emirates Cargo Pet Travel: The Standard Method

Most pets traveling on Emirates fly as cargo through one of two methods: checked baggage (excess baggage program) or manifest cargo (Emirates SkyCargo). The method depends on your pet’s size, weight, and destination.

Checked Baggage vs. Manifest Cargo

Checked baggage is available for smaller pets whose combined weight (pet + crate) does not exceed 32 kg (70.5 lbs) and whose total crate dimensions do not exceed 300 cm (118 in). If your pet exceeds these limits, they must travel as manifest cargo via Emirates SkyCargo.

IATA Crate Requirements for Cargo Travel

All pets traveling in cargo must use hard-sided plastic or fiberglass crates that meet IATA Live Animals Regulations standards. Soft-sided carriers are not permitted for cargo travel.

The crate must be large enough for your pet to stand naturally, turn around completely, and lie down in a natural position. Emirates uses the IATA formula to calculate minimum crate size:

• Length: Nose-to-tail length + ½ height at elbow
• Width: Shoulder width × 2
• Height: Height to ear tip (or top of head when erect) + bedding thickness

For brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds that are not banned, add 10% additional space to these measurements for improved airflow. However, note that all brachycephalic breeds are currently banned from Emirates travel year-round.

Crate construction requirements include:

• Smooth interior walls with no sharp edges or protrusions
• Secure locking bolts (not plastic snap locks)
• Handles on both sides for safe handling
• Removable or lockable wheels
• Ventilation openings on at least three sides
• Maximum opening size: 25 mm for dogs, 19 mm for cats

Emirates Pet Fees: Complete Breakdown by Route and Weight

Emirates pet fees vary significantly based on travel method, route, and pet size. Unlike many airlines, Emirates does not publish a simple online fee calculator. Exact pricing requires phone confirmation.

Checked Baggage Fees (Published Rates)

Pet + Crate Combined Weight	Maximum Total Dimensions	Fee (USD)
Up to 23 kg (50.7 lbs)	Up to 150 cm (59 in)	$500 USD
24-32 kg (52.9-70.5 lbs)	150-300 cm (59-118 in)	$650 USD
Over 32 kg (70.5 lbs)	Up to 300 cm (118 in)	$800 USD
Any weight	Over 300 cm (118 in)	Must ship as manifest cargo (see below)

Manifest Cargo Fees (SkyCargo)

For pets exceeding checked baggage limits or traveling on routes requiring manifest cargo, pricing is custom-quoted by Emirates SkyCargo. Based on typical routes, expect fees in the range of $1,500-$5,000+ USD depending on:

• Origin and destination airports
• Total weight of pet and crate
• Crate dimensions
• Season and demand

Contact Emirates SkyCargo directly for exact pricing. There is no published rate card for manifest cargo pet shipments.

In-Cabin Fees (Phone Quote Required)

For the limited routes where in-cabin travel is available, fees are not published online. Based on regional airline standards, expect fees in the range of $200-$600 USD, but you must call 1-833-534-2451 for exact pricing on your specific route.

Pro Tip: When budgeting for international pet relocation via Emirates, treat the cargo fee as a separate major expense. For families moving overseas, pet transport costs can rival the cost of human tickets.

How to Book Pet Travel on Emirates: Step-by-Step Process

You cannot book pet travel through the standard Emirates passenger reservation system. The airline uses a dedicated multi-step process:

1. Submit Online Pet Request Form: Visit https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/forms/pets-travel/ at least 1 week before departure. Provide passenger details, pet species/breed/age/weight, carrier dimensions, routing, and any special requests. This is an inquiry, not a confirmed booking.
2. Await Emirates Contact: Emirates SkyCargo will review your request and contact you within 24-48 hours via email or phone to discuss feasibility and provide initial guidance.
3. Finalize Booking by Phone: Call 1-833-534-2451 to receive your exact fee quote, confirm space availability, and make payment. This phone call is mandatory. You cannot complete the booking online.
4. Receive Email Confirmation: Emirates will send booking confirmation with your pet reservation details, carrier requirements, and documentation checklist.
5. Prepare Required Documentation: Gather all health certificates, vaccination records, import permits, and microchip documentation (see section below).
6. Arrive Early for Check-In: For cargo travel, arrive at the Emirates SkyCargo facility (not the passenger terminal) 4-6 hours before departure. For in-cabin travel (if available on your route), arrive at the passenger terminal 3-4 hours before international flights.
7. Present Pet and Documentation: Airline staff will inspect your pet, carrier, and all required documents. Missing or incorrect paperwork will result in denied travel.
8. Carrier Inspection: Staff will verify the carrier meets IATA standards for proper ventilation, size, and safety features.
9. Pet Loading: For cargo travel, your pet will be moved to a temperature-controlled holding area before being loaded onto the aircraft. For in-cabin travel, you will board with your pet during your assigned boarding group.
10. Collection at Destination: For cargo travel, collect your pet at the Emirates SkyCargo facility at your destination airport, not at passenger baggage claim. Allow 2-4 hours after flight arrival for cargo processing.

Required Documents for Emirates Pet Travel

Emirates enforces strict documentation requirements. Missing or incorrect paperwork will result in denied travel at the airport, with no refund of fees.

Veterinary Health Certificate

A licensed veterinarian must issue a health certificate stating your pet is healthy, fit to fly, and free from infectious diseases. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel. Certificates older than 10 days will not be accepted.

Vaccination Records

Rabies vaccination is mandatory for all dogs and cats:

• Dogs: Rabies vaccine must be administered at least 21 days before arrival at the destination country
• Cats: Rabies vaccine must be administered at least 14 days before arrival at the destination country

You must provide the original vaccination certificate showing the vaccine type, date administered, and veterinarian signature.

Microchip Documentation

All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. The microchip number must appear on all health certificates and vaccination records. Provide documentation showing:

• Microchip number
• Date of implantation
• ISO standard compliance

Destination Country Import Permit

Most countries require an import permit for pets. This is your responsibility to research and obtain. Emirates will not allow your pet to fly without the required import permit for your destination. Countries with particularly strict requirements include:

• Australia (requires 30+ days quarantine)
• United Kingdom (post-Brexit import requirements)
• Japan (strict import documentation)
• New Zealand (quarantine and import permit required)

Contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country to determine specific import requirements.

Acclimation Certificate (Cargo Travel Only)

For cargo travel when temperatures are forecast to be between 7.2°C and 20°C (45°F and 68°F) at any point during the journey, a veterinarian must sign an acclimation certificate. This document attests that your pet is accustomed to colder temperatures and can safely travel in those conditions.

Emirates Service Dog Policy

Emirates allows properly trained service dogs to travel in the cabin free of charge on routes where service animals are permitted, including some routes where pets are otherwise banned from the cabin. Only dogs are accepted as service animals. Emirates does not recognize cats, miniature horses, or other species as service animals.

Service Dog Documentation Requirements

You must notify Emirates at least 48-72 hours before departure and provide:

• U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (for flights to/from the United States)
• Veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
• Proof of rabies vaccination
• Microchip documentation
• Import permit for destination country (if required)

The service dog must be harnessed or leashed at all times and remain at your feet or in your lap without blocking aisles or emergency exits. Emirates reserves the right to refuse transport if the animal is disruptive, aggressive, or not under control.

Service Dog Fees

Service dogs travel free of charge in the cabin. This complies with the U.S. Department of Transportation Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) for flights to/from the United States.

Emotional Support Animals: Not Recognized by Emirates

Emirates does not recognize emotional support animals (ESAs) as service animals. This policy has been in effect since 2021, following the U.S. Department of Transportation’s revision of the Air Carrier Access Act.

If you have an emotional support animal, it must travel as a standard pet subject to:

• Full pet fees ($500-$5,000+ USD depending on route and method)
• Extremely limited in-cabin availability (select regional routes only)
• Cargo travel requirements for most international flights
• All breed restrictions and documentation requirements

There are no exceptions to this policy. ESAs receive no special accommodation or fee waiver.

Breed Restrictions: Complete Banned Breed List

Emirates has one of the most comprehensive breed restriction lists in the airline industry. The following breeds are banned from both cabin and cargo travel year-round with no exceptions:

Banned Dog Breeds

• Affenpinscher
• American Cocker Spaniel
• American Bulldog
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all types)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all types including English Bulldog and French Bulldog)
• Bullmastiff
• Bully Kutta (Alangu Mastiff, Indian Mastiff)
• Cane Corso
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chihuahua (apple-headed)
• Chow Chow
• Dogo Argentino
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• Japanese Chin
• Japanese Tosa
• King Charles Spaniel
• Lhasa Apso
• Lowchen
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Newfoundland
• Pekingese
• Perro de Presa Canario (Canary Mastiff)
• Pit Bull Terrier
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all types)
• Shar-Pei
• Shih Tzu
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Banned Cat Breeds

• British Longhair
• British Shorthair
• Burmese
• Exotic Fold (Foldex)
• Exotic Shorthair
• Himalayan
• Persian
• Scottish Fold
• Selkirk Rex

If your pet is any of these breeds or a mix containing these breeds, you cannot fly them on Emirates under any circumstances. There are no exceptions for service animals, cargo travel, or specific routes.

Temperature Restrictions and Seasonal Embargoes

Due to extreme heat at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Emirates enforces strict temperature-based embargoes that significantly impact pet travel, particularly during summer months.

General Temperature Limits

Pets cannot be accepted for cargo travel if ground temperatures are forecast to be:

• Below 7.2°C (45°F) at any point during the journey
• Above 29.4°C (85°F) at any point during the journey

For brachycephalic breeds (which are already banned year-round), the upper threshold would be lower at 24-26.7°C (75-80°F) if they were permitted to travel.

Summer Embargo: May Through September

During peak summer months (May 1 through September 30), Dubai temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). During this period:

• All brachycephalic breeds face a complete embargo (though they are already banned year-round)
• Cargo pet transport may be suspended for all breeds on days when temperatures are forecast to exceed 29.4°C (85°F)
• Last-minute cancellations are common due to temperature spikes

If you must travel during summer months, in-cabin travel (if available on your specific route) may be your only option. However, in-cabin availability is extremely limited to select regional routes only.

Pro Tip: Book pet travel during cooler months (October through April) whenever possible. Summer travel through Dubai carries significant risk of last-minute cancellation due to heat, even for non-restricted breeds.

Winter Temperature Considerations

For travel during colder months when temperatures may fall between 7.2°C and 20°C (45°F and 68°F), your veterinarian must provide an acclimation certificate attesting that your pet is accustomed to cold temperatures and can safely travel in those conditions.

Route-Specific Restrictions

In addition to breed and temperature restrictions, Emirates prohibits in-cabin pet travel on specific routes regardless of pet size or breed:

Routes Where In-Cabin Pet Travel Is NOT Allowed

• United Kingdom (all airports)
• South Africa (all airports)
• Brazil (all airports)
• Australia (all airports)
• Hong Kong
• United Arab Emirates (domestic flights within UAE)

On these routes, all pets must travel as cargo via Emirates SkyCargo, regardless of size or weight.

Transit Restrictions

For in-cabin pets transiting through Dubai or Abu Dhabi, maximum connection time is 6 hours. If your layover exceeds 6 hours, your pet must be transferred to cargo facilities, which may require additional fees and documentation.

Codeshare Flight Limitations

Pet bookings are often not available on codeshare flights operated by Emirates partner airlines. Verify pet acceptance at the time of booking by calling 1-833-534-2451. Do not assume that a flight marketed as Emirates will accept pets if it is operated by a partner carrier.

Check-In and Airport Procedures

For Cargo Travel

You will not check in your pet at the regular passenger terminal. Instead:

1. Arrive at the Emirates SkyCargo facility at Dubai International (DXB) or Al Maktoum International (DWC) at least 4-6 hours before flight departure
2. Present your pet, crate, and all required documentation to SkyCargo staff
3. Staff will inspect the crate for IATA compliance and verify all health certificates and import permits
4. Your pet will be moved to a temperature-controlled holding area
5. Pets are loaded onto the aircraft separately from passenger baggage
6. At your destination, collect your pet at the SkyCargo cargo facility, not at passenger baggage claim
7. Allow 2-4 hours after flight arrival for cargo processing and customs clearance

For In-Cabin Travel (Limited Routes Only)

If your route permits in-cabin pet travel:

1. Arrive at the passenger terminal 3-4 hours before international flights
2. Check in at the designated pet/special baggage counter (not standard check-in)
3. Present your pet, carrier, and all required documentation
4. Staff will inspect the carrier to ensure it fits under the seat and meets ventilation requirements
5. Board during your assigned boarding group with your pet in the carrier
6. Keep your pet in the carrier under the seat for the entire flight

Emirates Pet Travel: Practical Tips and Alternatives

Flying a pet on Emirates requires significant advance planning and preparation. Start the process at least 4-6 weeks before your trip, not the minimum 1 week required by the airline. This gives you time to:

• Obtain all required health certificates and import permits
• Purchase or modify a crate to meet IATA specifications
• Acclimate your pet to the crate
• Arrange backup plans in case of temperature-related cancellations

Given the high costs ($1,500-$5,000+ USD for most international cargo shipments), extremely limited in-cabin availability, and comprehensive breed restrictions, consider whether Emirates is the best option for your pet travel needs. If in-cabin travel is important to you and your pet qualifies, other airlines may offer more flexible policies for long-haul routes.

Verify every requirement directly with Emirates before booking. Policies change frequently, and destination country requirements vary. Call 1-833-534-2451 to confirm current policies for your specific route and travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions: Emirates Pet Policy

Can I bring my dog in the cabin on Emirates?

In-cabin pets are extremely limited on Emirates. Cabin travel is available only on select regional routes, primarily UAE domestic flights. It is NOT available on intercontinental routes or flights to/from the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Australia, Hong Kong, or within the UAE. Most international flights require cargo transport. Dogs must be under 6 kg (13.2 lbs), at least 4 months old, and travel in approved soft-sided carriers. Booking requires submission of a pet request form at least one week in advance and phone confirmation at 1-833-534-2451.

How much does Emirates charge for pet transport?

Fees vary significantly by travel method and route. Checked baggage fees are $500 USD (up to 23 kg/50.7 lbs), $650 USD (24-32 kg/52.9-70.5 lbs), or $800 USD (over 32 kg/70.5 lbs). Manifest cargo via Emirates SkyCargo typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000+ USD depending on route, pet size, and crate dimensions. In-cabin fees (for the limited routes where available) are estimated at $200-$600 USD but require phone confirmation. Exact pricing requires calling Emirates at 1-833-534-2451 as fees are not available online.

What dog breeds are banned on Emirates?

Emirates bans all brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds and several aggressive breeds from both cabin and cargo year-round. Banned breeds include: Affenpinscher, American Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Boxer (all types), Bulldog (all types including English Bulldog and French Bulldog), Bullmastiff, Bully Kutta, Cane Corso, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua (apple-headed), Chow Chow, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Japanese Chin, Japanese Tosa, King Charles Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Lowchen, Neapolitan Mastiff, Newfoundland, Pekingese, Perro de Presa Canario, Pit Bull Terrier, Presa Canario, Pug (all types), Shar-Pei, Shih Tzu, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Tibetan Spaniel. There are no exceptions.

Does Emirates accept emotional support animals?

No. Emirates does NOT recognize emotional support animals (ESAs) as of 2021. ESAs must travel as standard pets, subject to full pet fees ($500-$5,000+ USD), limited in-cabin availability (select regional routes only), and cargo restrictions. Only trained service dogs with proper documentation are exempt and travel free in the cabin. This policy aligns with the 2021 U.S. Department of Transportation Air Carrier Access Act revision.

Can I fly my cat on Emirates?

Yes, cats are allowed but face the same restrictions as dogs. In-cabin travel is extremely limited to select regional routes only. Breed restrictions apply to snub-nosed cats including Persian, Himalayan, British Shorthair, British Longhair, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, Exotic Fold, Scottish Fold, and Selkirk Rex (these breeds are banned year-round). Cats must be at least 4 months old, weigh under 6 kg (13.2 lbs) for cabin travel, have valid health certificates issued within 10 days of travel, and rabies vaccination administered at least 14 days before arrival. Most international flights require cargo transport. Exact fees require phone booking at 1-833-534-2451.

What documents do I need to fly my pet on Emirates?

Required documents include: (1) Veterinary health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel, confirming your pet is fit to fly and free of infectious diseases. (2) Rabies vaccination records showing vaccination administered at least 21 days before arrival for dogs or 14 days before arrival for cats. (3) Microchip documentation showing ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip with ID number matching all health documents. (4) Destination country import permit (required by UK, Australia, Japan, and many other countries). (5) Pet declaration form submitted at https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/forms/pets-travel/ at least 1 week before departure. For cargo travel in temperatures between 7.2°C and 20°C (45°F and 68°F), an acclimation certificate from your veterinarian is also required.

Does Emirates have summer heat embargoes for pets?

Yes. During peak summer months (May through September), Dubai’s extreme temperatures (regularly exceeding 40°C/104°F) trigger heat embargoes preventing pet transport. All brachycephalic breeds face a complete embargo during these months (though they are already banned year-round). For non-restricted breeds, cargo transport may be suspended on any day when ground temperatures are forecast to exceed 29.4°C (85°F). Last-minute cancellations are common during summer. Plan travel during cooler months (October through April) whenever possible. During summer, in-cabin travel (if available on your specific route) may be your only option, but in-cabin availability is extremely limited to select regional routes only.

Last Verified: February 2026. This article references the official Emirates pet policy page at https://www.emirates.com/us/english/help/faqs/traveling-with-pets/ and Emirates SkyCargo documentation at https://www.skycargo.com/. IATA Live Animals Regulations standards are cited for international crate requirements. Policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Emirates at 1-833-534-2451 before booking.

This article is for informational purposes only. Airline pet policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Emirates before booking.