Pet Import Regulations in Saudi Arabia

Relocating pets to Saudi Arabia requires an import permit from Saudi National Authority for Protection of Wildlife and Development. All animals must arrive in the country with a microchip compatible with international standards (ISO 11784/11785).

Other necessary documents for pet relocation are a Veterinary Health Certificate (from the exporting country) and a cover letter addressed to Director of Customs of Saudi Arabia signed by the vet. The certificate must state the animal has up to date vaccinations, is free from rabies and other diseases. Note that both documents need to be translated in Arabic, attested by the relevant government ministry of the exporting country, and authenticated by the local Saudi Arabian embassy or consulate in one's home country.

Only dogs classified as watch dogs, hunting dogs, seeing-eye dogs (for the blind persons) and hearing dogs (for deaf persons) are allowed to be imported. Veterinary certificates should indicate the purpose of the pet. Dogs not classified as working dogs are not allowed to enter Saudi Arabia, unless granted incidental exemptions.

Importations of cats require two veterinarian health certificates and a rabies inoculation certificate (indicating inoculation is between 12 months and 30 days prior to arrival).

Due to the outbreak of Avian Flu, importation of birds is restricted with the exemption of one day-old chicks and hatching eggs. It is prohibited to bring live chickens, turkeys, pigeons, ducks, geese and parrots.

All animals are to be collected from Saudi Cargo depot. A customs declaration form must be completed. In Saudi Arabia, a vet authority can declare the animal needs quarantine for six months if the paperwork is not in order.

Expats are advised to use a professional international pet relocation company to Saudi Arabia. However, it will still depend on the preference of the owner; pet transport can either be through an airline accompanied by the owner, or through pet relocation services to Saudi Arabia. Pets can travel free through Saudi Arabian Airlines if accompanied by the owner on the same flight. Check their website for more information.