Flying with pets made easy with Etihad and Emirates

Travelling with pets has often been a stressful experience for pet parents, especially with aeroplanes, but UAE carriers are all set to make it easier. Two of the UAE's biggest airlines, Etihad Airways and Emirates, have introduced new services that make it much easier for passengers to fly with their furry companions. The move is being welcomed by pet lovers across the world, as it brings comfort, safety and convenience to pet travel while meeting global standards of care.

For many years, flying with pets meant complicated paperwork, long procedures and very limited options. Many owners had to leave their pets behind or face high costs and uncertain rules when planning international journeys. Now Etihad and Emirates are offering clear guidelines, transparent fees and special facilities so that pets can travel comfortably on their flights. This change is expected to help pet owners who often travel for work, relocation or vacations and do not want to be separated from their animals.

Etihad Airways has recently announced services that allow cats and dogs to fly with their owners in the cabin, provided they meet size and weight requirements. The airline has created a simple booking process where owners can apply in advance and get approval before the journey. Pets that are larger or heavier can still travel safely in the cargo hold, where temperature and conditions are carefully monitored. The airline assures passengers that pets will be well cared for throughout the flight, which helps reduce the anxiety many owners feel.

Emirates has also taken major steps to improve its pet travel options. The airline is known worldwide for its luxury service, and now it is extending that quality to animals as well. Emirates provides dedicated guidance for owners, helping them prepare documents such as vaccination records, health certificates and permits required by destination countries. By streamlining these steps, Emirates makes the process less stressful and ensures pets can fly without unnecessary delays. The airline has also improved its cargo facilities, offering secure and climate-controlled spaces for pets that cannot travel in the cabin.

The introduction of these services reflects a growing demand for pet-friendly travel. In many parts of the world, people increasingly see pets as family members rather than animals. Owners are willing to spend more to make sure their pets are safe and comfortable, and airlines are responding by offering better choices. For the UAE, where international travel is common, the move also strengthens the country’s position as a global travel hub that cares about passenger needs.

Travel experts believe these steps will encourage more people to consider flying with pets instead of leaving them behind. For families moving abroad, expats returning home, or tourists planning extended stays, the ability to bring pets easily is a major advantage. It also opens up new opportunities for the tourism sector, as pet-friendly travel becomes a trend around the world. By leading in this area, Etihad and Emirates are setting an example for other airlines to follow.

Pet owners are advised to plan in advance to make the most of these services. Airlines recommend booking early, confirming pet eligibility, and preparing all required documents before the journey. Health and vaccination certificates are usually mandatory, and some destinations may have quarantine rules that owners must follow. With proper planning, however, the process is now much smoother compared to the past.

The changes by Etihad and Emirates highlight how travel is evolving to meet modern expectations. Flying with pets is no longer a rare or difficult task but an option that many passengers can now consider without fear. By making pet journeys easy and safe, these airlines are not only winning the loyalty of pet owners but also showing that comfort, care and innovation are central to their service. For anyone planning to fly with pets, Etihad and Emirates are now among the best choices in the sky.