For many travelers, pets are beloved family members, and leaving them behind during a trip is not an option. As a result, pet travel policies have become an important factor when selecting an airline. Emirates, one of the world’s leading international carriers, has established clear guidelines for transporting animals, whether they are cats, dogs, falcons, or other species. However, unlike some airlines that allow small pets in the cabin, Emirates has a different approach, with specific requirements for how animals can travel depending on their size, species, and destination.
This article provides a detailed, comprehensive, and well-structured explanation of Emirates’ pet travel policy. It will cover eligibility rules, cabin policies, cargo arrangements, kennel requirements, destination-specific restrictions, costs, and practical tips for preparing your pet for a journey with Emirates. By the end, you will have a thorough understanding of what to expect when booking pet travel with the airline.
An Overview of Emirates’ Pet Travel Approach
Emirates is known for its extensive international network and high-quality service, but its pet travel policy is more restrictive compared to some carriers. Unlike airlines that allow small pets to travel inside the passenger cabin under the seat, Emirates generally requires animals to be transported in the aircraft hold as manifested cargo, except in very limited circumstances.
The main exceptions are falcons, which are permitted in the cabin on certain routes, and guide dogs, which can travel free of charge with visually impaired passengers. Cats, dogs, rabbits, and other domestic pets, however, are not allowed in the passenger cabin.
Instead, Emirates provides two primary options for pet transport:
- As Cargo in the Aircraft Hold – This applies to most pets, including cats and dogs.
- Through Emirates SkyCargo Services – A dedicated service for transporting animals under specialized conditions, often used for long journeys or when regulations require.
Traveling with Falcons
One of the unique aspects of Emirates’ pet policy is the allowance for falcons in the cabin. This rule reflects cultural traditions in the Middle East, where falconry is a long-practiced heritage sport. Falcons may be accepted in the economy-class cabin on specific flights, usually within the Gulf region and certain Middle Eastern destinations.
However, even falcon transport comes with conditions: they must be properly hooded, securely tethered, and accompanied by the required permits. Emirates has become known for this rare service, which demonstrates its sensitivity to regional culture while still prioritizing safety.
Service and Guide Dogs
Emirates makes exceptions for trained service animals, particularly guide dogs for visually impaired passengers. These dogs are allowed to travel in the passenger cabin free of charge. The airline requires documentation proving the animal’s training and service status.
Guide dogs must remain harnessed throughout the flight and sit in the designated floor space near the passenger’s seat. While they are not permitted to occupy a passenger seat, Emirates ensures that reasonable accommodations are made to keep both the passenger and service animal comfortable.
Other types of assistance dogs may be accepted, but this depends on the regulations of the destination country, so travelers must check local laws as well as airline requirements.
Transporting Pets as Cargo
For all other animals, Emirates requires transport in the aircraft hold as manifested cargo. This is not the same as checked baggage; instead, pets travel in a pressurized, temperature-controlled section of the cargo hold designed for animals.
Emirates SkyCargo, the airline’s dedicated cargo division, manages these arrangements. SkyCargo’s animal transport service, called Emirates Pets, is equipped to handle a wide range of animals, from domestic pets to exotic species. The service is designed to ensure safety, comfort, and regulatory compliance.
Key Points of Cargo Transport:
- Temperature Control: The cargo hold where pets travel is air-conditioned and pressurized, maintaining conditions similar to those in the passenger cabin.
- Handling Staff: Emirates employs trained personnel to handle live animals, ensuring their well-being during loading, transit, and arrival.
- Direct Routes Preferred: Whenever possible, direct flights are recommended to reduce stress and avoid layovers. Emirates’ extensive network helps minimize transfers.
Kennel and Container Requirements
To ensure safety, Emirates enforces strict rules on pet containers. These kennels must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.
General Kennel Requirements:
- Size: The kennel must be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Material: Hard-sided plastic or wood is typically required. Soft carriers are not accepted for cargo transport.
- Ventilation: At least three sides of the kennel must have ventilation holes.
- Door Security: The door must be metal and lock securely to prevent accidental escape.
- Absorbent Material: The bottom of the kennel must contain absorbent material, such as a blanket or pet pad, but straw is not allowed.
Owners are advised to get pets accustomed to the kennel before travel to reduce stress. Emirates also recommends labeling the kennel with the pet’s name, the owner’s details, and handling instructions.
Health and Documentation Requirements
When transporting pets internationally, regulations are complex. Emirates requires passengers to comply with both airline rules and the entry regulations of the destination country.
Typical requirements include:
- Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian within a specified period before travel.
- Vaccination Records: Proof of rabies vaccination and others, depending on the destination.
- Import Permits: Some countries require government-issued permits for animal entry.
- Microchip Identification: Certain destinations, such as those in the European Union, require pets to be microchipped.
- Special Quarantine Rules: Countries like Australia and New Zealand have very strict animal quarantine requirements.
Failure to comply with documentation rules can result in denial of boarding or quarantine upon arrival.
Destination-Specific Restrictions
Because Emirates flies to over 150 destinations worldwide, pet transport rules vary depending on the country. Some countries prohibit the entry of certain species, while others impose quarantine periods.
For example:
- Australia and New Zealand: Do not allow pets to travel directly in passenger flights with Emirates. Pets must be transported through specialized quarantine-approved routes.
- United Kingdom: Strict entry requirements under the Pet Travel Scheme, including microchipping and rabies vaccination, apply.
- India and other Asian nations: Often require government permits and health certifications.
It is the passenger’s responsibility to research and prepare for these requirements in advance. Emirates’ SkyCargo staff can assist by advising on the necessary documentation.
Costs of Traveling with Pets on Emirates
The cost of transporting pets on Emirates depends on several factors, including:
- The weight of the animal plus the kennel.
- The size of the kennel.
- The travel route and distance.
Charges are generally calculated by weight and dimensions, following cargo pricing standards. Unlike checked baggage fees, pet transport costs are often higher because they involve special handling.
For falcons in the cabin, fees vary depending on the route and number of birds. Guide dogs, however, are transported free of charge when accompanying a passenger with disabilities.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
Air travel can be stressful for animals, so preparation is crucial. Here are some tips to help your pet have a safer, calmer journey:
- Visit the Veterinarian: Schedule a health check before travel to ensure your pet is fit to fly. Obtain all necessary vaccinations and certificates.
- Acclimatize to the Kennel: Introduce the kennel weeks before departure, allowing your pet to get comfortable inside it.
- Avoid Sedation: Most airlines, including Emirates, discourage sedating pets because it can interfere with their ability to adjust to cabin pressure.
- Hydration: Provide water before departure, and attach a water bottle or bowl to the kennel.
- Feeding: Feed pets a few hours before the flight rather than immediately before departure to prevent nausea.
- Exercise: Give your pet exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax during the journey.
Emotional Considerations for Pet Owners
Traveling with pets is not just about rules and logistics; it is also an emotional experience. Many owners worry about how their pets will cope with being separated in the cargo hold. While Emirates has strong animal handling practices, owners must decide whether the journey is essential for their pet or whether alternative care arrangements at home might be less stressful.
For short-term trips, it may be kinder to leave pets in trusted care rather than subject them to the stress of air travel. For relocations, however, Emirates provides a viable option for safe pet transportation.
Alternatives and Special Cases
Sometimes, pets cannot travel on the same passenger flight as their owners due to route restrictions or animal size. In such cases, Emirates SkyCargo provides specialized animal transport flights under the Emirates Pets service. This option is frequently used for relocations, show animals, and breeders.
SkyCargo facilities include climate-controlled animal handling centers and trained veterinary staff in certain locations, providing an extra level of care during transit.
Practical Checklist for Pet Travel with Emirates
To summarize, here is a checklist to follow if you are planning to transport a pet with Emirates:
- Confirm whether your pet can travel as a falcon in cabin, guide dog, or must go as cargo.
- Contact Emirates or SkyCargo well in advance to request a quotation and booking.
- Secure an IATA-approved kennel that meets Emirates’ specifications.
- Obtain veterinary health certificates, vaccination records, and any required import or export permits.
- Research the destination country’s animal entry rules, including quarantine requirements.
- Pay the deposit or charges as instructed by Emirates.
- Acclimate your pet to the kennel and prepare for the journey.
- Arrive early at the airport for check-in and handling procedures.
Final Thoughts
Emirates does not allow pets such as cats and dogs to travel in the passenger cabin, with the exceptions of falcons on certain routes and guide dogs for passengers with disabilities. For most animals, transport is arranged through the airline’s cargo system, which ensures safety and comfort in temperature-controlled conditions.
While the process requires planning, documentation, and added expense, Emirates’ policy provides a reliable framework for moving pets across its global network. By understanding kennel requirements, preparing necessary paperwork, and consulting with Emirates’ dedicated animal transport team, pet owners can ensure a smoother experience.
In the end, whether you are relocating permanently, embarking on a long-term assignment abroad, or honoring cultural traditions with falconry, Emirates offers a structured and professional way to travel with pets. Careful preparation and adherence to both airline and destination regulations are the keys to ensuring your pet’s well-being throughout the journey.