Emirates Airlines Pet Policy: Exclusive Perks You Need to Know
- ToursN TravelPro
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Taking your furry companion along on vacation involves a great deal of planning, especially when it comes to international air travel. Knowing Emirates Airlines Pet Policy guarantees your pet’s flight will be safe and anxiety-free at no cost. Whether within the UAE or outside the UAE, Emirates provides a set of guidelines relating to in-cabin, cargo, carrier sizes, breed restrictions, and documentation requirements.
If you have questions or need expert assistance with booking and following these rules, call us anytime at +1-866-679-5070 for quick help and hassle-free pet travel arrangements.
Overview of Emirates Airlines Pet Policy
In contrast to other airlines that have policies allowing the transportation of small pets in the cabin, the Emirates Airlines Pet Policy does not favor pets that have to be transported in the cargo hold in most cases. To maintain the safety of the pets and their comfort, the airline provides pressurized long-distance flights and filters the temperature. Nevertheless, there are some limiting conditions under which service dogs are allowed in the cabin.
In-Cabin Pet Policy with Emirates Airlines
Emirates does not allow pets in the passenger cabin, except for recognized service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities. This means cats, dogs, birds, and other animals must travel as manifested cargo in the aircraft hold.
Key Points:
Only service dogs can travel in the cabin free of charge.
Emotional support animals are not accepted on Emirates flights.
Service dogs must remain at the passenger’s feet during the journey.
Emirates Airlines Pet Travel Policy for Cargo
Most pets flying with Emirates must travel as cargo under Emirates SkyCargo’s Live Animals service. This policy ensures animals are transported safely with proper ventilation and temperature control.
Important Details:
Pets must be booked at least seven days before departure.
Animals must be healthy and fit to travel, with proper vaccinations.
The cargo hold is pressurized and climate-controlled to prevent stress.
Carrier Size and Crate Requirements
To comply with the pet policy of Emirates Airlines, carriers must meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. This ensures pets have enough space to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.
Crate Guidelines:
Must be sturdy, escape-proof, and well-ventilated on all sides.
Food and water containers should be accessible from outside.
The crate size depends on your pet’s dimensions (length, height, and width).
A common example: For a medium dog (up to 32 kg), the crate might measure 81 x 56 x 59 cm.
Tip: Always check Emirates’ official size guidelines, as they may vary for large breeds.
Breed Restrictions on Emirates Airlines
Emirates places restrictions on certain breeds for safety and health reasons. For instance:
Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats are not allowed due to breathing difficulties in high altitudes.
Some dangerous dog breeds, like Pit Bulls and Tosas, are prohibited.
Pregnant animals and puppies under 12 weeks are generally not accepted.
Always confirm breed eligibility before booking to avoid last-minute surprises.
Pet Fees and Cost Calculation
Pet travel fees on Emirates depend on the combined weight of the pet and its crate:
Up to 23 kg: Approximately $500.
24–32 kg: Around $650.
Above 32 kg: Charged as cargo at a higher rate.
Example: A Labrador weighing 28 kg with its crate would fall into the 24–32 kg category, costing roughly $650 for the journey.
Documentation Required for Pet Travel
Emirates Airlines Pet Policy requires travelers to provide certain documents for both domestic and international routes:
Health Certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Vaccination Records, including rabies and other region-specific shots.
Import Permits for the destination country (mandatory for most international routes).
Microchip details, if required by the destination.
Pro Tip: Some countries have strict quarantine rules—verify before booking.
International Pet Travel with Emirates Airlines
The Emirates Airlines Pet Policy international guidelines are crucial for passengers flying across borders. Emirates adheres to country-specific regulations, meaning additional steps may include:
Blood tests (for rabies antibody levels) for destinations like the EU.
Quarantine periods in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
Additional documentation, such as airline declarations and owner’s contact details.
Plan at least one to two months in advance for international travel to avoid delays.
Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel on Emirates
Book early through Emirates SkyCargo to secure space.
Acclimate your pet to the travel crate at least two weeks before departure.
Attach clear labels with the pet’s name, feeding instructions, and your contact details.
Include absorbent bedding and a favorite toy for comfort.
Avoid sedating pets unless prescribed by a veterinarian, as sedation can cause complications during the flight.
Final Thoughts on Emirates Airlines Pet Policy
By considering the Emirates Airlines Pet Policy, an experience of traveling with pets will not be that stressful. With regulations on cargo travel and international flight documentation, Emirates can be depended on by the pet owners.
For personalized guidance and quick bookings, call our travel experts at +1-866-679-5070 and make your pet’s journey as stress-free as possible.
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