The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is vast with exciting developments happening consistently. How easy is it to travel to Saudi with pets?
Saudi Arabia is becoming increasingly pet friendly, with an expat community from all over the world opting to relocate with their animals. What do you need to know about moving to Saudi Arabia with dogs and cats?
Saudi Arabia will allow the import of dogs for a "purpose" which can get confusing as a pet owner! For most of us they are snuggle bugs and useless at anything else. But don't worry, family pets can still be imported.
If you are the pet parent to any of the following breeds then sadly they cannot enter Saudi Arabia:
Small breeds are allowed but permission is not always granted, pictures must be submitted of any dog at the time of import permit application; approval is subject to the approval of the veterinary authorities.
Bengal Cats should 5th gen and have breed certificate and will require National Wildlife Commission approval in advance of any import permit being issued
There are a few things to have in place before an import permit can be secured:
You will also need to have a Saudi Iqama (residency) to be allowed to have an import permit. The permit allows for 2 pets to be imported
Saudi will allow the entry of pets as cargo, in the cabin, as checked baggage and also by road (handy for neighbouring GCC countries). Where possible we recommend flying with your pets as accompanied baggage and be mindful of the temperature, summers get HOT in Saudi and are unsuitable for pet travel, plan for any movement to happen in the winter.
Whilst no one wants to think about leaving before they have arrived, if you are taking pets to Saudi Arabia it's really important that you consider the next posting you are likely to go to. Saudi Arabia is seen as high risk for rabies by many popular expat countries and this creates complications when moving. Even when going to Europe and the United Kingdom your pets will need a rabies titre test (blood test) in order to travel. These tests require a wait period after the blood has been drawn so you must plan well in advance and speak to an IPATA agent, like ourselves, who can advise you on the latest regulations.
More questions? Send us an email and we'll add to this article for the benefit of everyone.