India Relaxes Pet Import Rules for UAE and Middle East Residents

India has announced a one-time relaxation of pet import rules, allowing its citizens returning from the Middle East, including the UAE, to bring their pets home under eased conditions.

The decision was issued on March 12, 2026, by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, citing extraordinary circumstances in conflict-affected parts of the region that have made it difficult for travellers to complete standard procedures.

The relaxation applies to pet dogs and cats travelling with their owners, particularly in situations where documentation or pre-export formalities could not be completed before departure.

Under normal regulations, importing pets into India requires advance approvals, strict vaccination timelines, and compliance with quarantine protocols, often taking several weeks. The temporary measure introduces flexibility while maintaining core animal health safeguards.

Key Rules Under India’s Relaxed Pet Import Policy

• Pets must have been with the owner for at least one month before travel
• Owners must provide available vaccination records or pet passport
• Delayed vaccinations (up to 15 days) may still be accepted
• Pets without vaccination proof can be vaccinated for rabies at the airport
• All pets will undergo document checks and clinical examination on arrival
• Quarantine will only apply if health concerns are detected, with costs borne by the owner

The government has clarified that this is a temporary and situation specific measure, introduced to support Indian nationals returning from the Middle East during a period of uncertainty. It will not be treated as a permanent change to pet import regulations.

For residents in the UAE and across the region, the move provides important relief, as strict import procedures have historically made it difficult to relocate pets on short notice.

By allowing conditional flexibility, authorities aim to ensure that families can return to India with their pets while still maintaining essential animal health and safety standards.

Pet owners planning to travel are advised to carry all available documentation and check requirements with relevant authorities before departure, as final clearance will be granted after inspection at the port of entry.