Emirates Airlines Pet Policy: Cabin Travel for Pets
Planning to travel with your furry companion on Emirates Airlines? It's essential to understand the airline's pet travel policy before booking your flight. Unlike some airlines that permit small pets in the cabin, Emirates strictly prohibits pets in passenger cabins.
General Pet Policy on Emirates
Emirates Airlines does not allow cats, dogs, or other pets to fly in the cabin, regardless of size or weight. Instead, pets must be checked as cargo via Emirates SkyCargo. The only exceptions to this rule are trained service dogs, which may be permitted under strict regulations if traveling with passengers who have a documented disability.
Options for Traveling with Your Pet
If you're flying Emirates and plan to bring your pet, you have the following options:
- Manifest Cargo: Pets travel in a temperature-controlled compartment in the aircraft via Emirates SkyCargo.
- Transit Restrictions: Emirates does not permit animals to transit through Dubai unless specific import/export permits and quarantine arrangements are in place.
- Travel to/from Destinations: Some countries may have additional restrictions or requirements, such as rabies titers and detailed veterinary documentation.
Important Regulations and Documentation
To book your pet's travel as cargo, you'll need:
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued close to travel date
- Microchip documentation for identification
- Possibly a titers test result depending on your destination
- IATA-compliant crate
Service Dogs on Emirates Flights
While regular pets are not allowed in the cabin, Emirates makes an exception for service dogs. These dogs must be:
- Professionally trained to assist individuals with disabilities
- Leashed and under control during the entire flight
- Registered and documented with completed forms as per Emirates’ criteria
Even in this case, the dog must fit in the space at the passenger’s feet, and some routes may not accommodate service animals in the cabin due to local regulations.
Emirates SkyCargo: The Only Option for Pets
For non-service pets, Emirates SkyCargo provides a dedicated animal care service that meets international travel standards. Key features include:
- Climate-controlled hold areas in the aircraft
- Experienced live animal transport handlers
- Compliance with IATA Live Animal Regulations
Breed and Weather Considerations
Like many airlines, Emirates enforces breed restrictions due to health and safety concerns. Short-nosed breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs) and powerful-jawed breeds (e.g., Rottweilers, Mastiffs) may be subject to additional travel limitations or may not be accepted for transport at all.
Additionally, Emirates may decline pet travel in extreme temperatures at departure or arrival airports to ensure animal welfare.
Planning Ahead
Because Emirates requires all pets—other than service dogs—to fly as cargo, you must plan well in advance. Here are a few tips:
- Contact Emirates SkyCargo early to secure your spot
- Complete all required veterinary documentation
- Get your pet comfortable in their travel crate
- Arrange for pickup and drop-off logistics with airport regulations in mind
Alternatives to Emirates for In-Cabin Pet Travel
If you prefer to keep your pet with you in the cabin and you're open to other carriers, consider airlines such as:
- Lufthansa and Air France – Accept pets under 8 kg including carrier
- Air Canada – Small pets accepted in-cabin
- JSX – Allows larger dogs in-cabin with purchase of an extra seat
Conclusion
Emirates does not allow pets in the cabin, aside from trained service dogs meeting specific guidelines. For all other pets, owners must arrange for cargo transport through Emirates SkyCargo with the required documentation and equipment. While this may require extra planning and cost, Emirates ensures safe and professional animal transport services. Before booking, always verify the latest rules and consult with a pet travel specialist if needed.
