Adopt, Don’t Shop – Change a Life, Gain a Best Friend

Pet Adoption in the UAE

Every year, countless animals are left homeless, abandoned, or mistreated. Rescue organizations work to save, rehabilitate, and find them loving homes. Adopting pets not only gives them a second chance but also helps stop unethical breeding practices.

Adoption fees support vet care, food, and shelter for rescued animals. Plus, many organizations offer guidance to ensure a smooth transition for both pets and owners.

Adopting a pet can change your life for the better, as it adds joy and companionship while also rescuing an animal in need. More and more people are beginning to understand the value of adopting abandoned and rescued animals, and so dog adoption in the UAE seems to be progressing. 

Why Adopt Instead of Buying?

Here’s a list of reasons why adopting a furry friend is a lot better than simply purchasing one. It is the more ethical, compassionate route to take.

• Prevention of Euthanasia: Shelters are often overcrowded, and animals face euthanasia if they aren’t adopted by a certain date. While adopting, you give animals a better chance at life.
• Affordability: Adoption fees are usually set lower than that of a breeder or pet shop.
• Homeless Animals: Adopting helps shelters reduce the number of animals in their homes while simultaneously battling overpopulation.
• Mental and Physical Health: Pets improve the quality of life by bringing pleasure and helping to reduce stress.

Where to Adopt a Pet in The UAE

The UAE has a variety of credible shelters and centers for adoption. There are some of the most suitable places to get your new furry friend.

Top 11 Pet Adoption Shelters in Dubai

1. K9 Friends

• Location: Jebel Ali Industrial Area 1, Dubai, UAE​
• Specialties: Dogs and puppies​
• Website: K9 Friends
• Adoption Process:
  • Complete an adoption application on their website.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the dogs.
  • Undergo a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,250) to cover vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.
• About: Established in 1989, K9 Friends is a leading UAE dog rescue organization, saving and rehoming stray and abandoned dogs. They also support cat welfare, ensuring both dogs and cats find loving homes.

2. 38 Smiles

• Location: Dubai, UAE​
• Specialties: Cats and kittens​
• Website: 38 Smiles
• Adoption Process:
  • Fill out an adoption form, which is available on their website.
  • Participate in an interview to ensure a suitable match.
  • Pay an adoption fee that includes vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering.
• About: Founded in 2011, 38 Smiles is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned dogs and cats. They provide medical care, shelter, and rehabilitation while actively promoting dog adoption and cat adoption to help these animals find safe and loving forever homes.

3. Amanda’s Animal Rescue UAE (AAR)

• Location: Dubai, UAE​
• Specialties: Dogs and cats​
• Facebook:/supportpaws
• Instagram:/amandasanimalrescue/
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit their Facebook or Instagram page to view available animals.
  • Attend an adoption event or contact them directly to express interest.
  • Complete an adoption application and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee covering medical expenses.
• About: AAR is an organization focused on rescuing and rehoming abandoned and stray animals, including dogs and cats. They organize regular adoption events to promote dog and pet adoption, ensuring these animals find safe and loving forever homes.

4. Yanni Animal Welfare

• Location: Dubai, UAE​
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and birds​
• Facebook:/yawdubai
• Adoption Process:
  • Contact them via their Facebook page to inquire about available animals.
  • Complete an adoption application and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee that includes medical treatments and care.
• About: Yanni Animal Welfare is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing injured, abandoned, and neglected animals. They provide medical care and work to facilitate dog and pet adoption, ensuring these animals find loving and permanent homes.

5. Rescue Animals in Need (RAIN)

• Location: Dubai, UAE
• Specialties: Cats and dogs
• Website: Rescue Animals in Need (RAIN)

• Adoption Process:
  • Submit an adoption application.
  • Attend a meet-up with the fostered animal.
  • Pay an adoption fee covering veterinary expenses.
• About: Rescue Animals in Need (RAIN) is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned pets. They focus on providing care and promoting dog and pet adoption to help these animals find safe and loving homes.

6. Feline Friends Dubai

• Location: Dubai, UAE
• Specialties: Cats and kittens
• Website: Feline Friends Dubai
• Instagram:@felinefriendsdubai
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit their Instagram pages to see available cats.
  • Fill out an adoption application.
  • Complete a home check and pay an adoption fee to cover medical care.
• About: Feline Friends Dubai focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of cats and kittens. They provide a safe haven for felines in need and actively promote cat adoption to help them find loving forever homes.

7. Dubai Pet Rescue Team (DPRT)

• Location: Dubai, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs
• Facebook:DubaiPetRescueTeam
• Instagram:@dubaipetrescueteam
• Adoption Process:
  • Reach out via their social media platforms to express interest in adopting.
  • They will discuss your background and readiness for pet ownership.
  • A home assessment may be conducted to ensure suitability.
  • A fee is required to cover the pet’s medical expenses.
• About: DPRT is dedicated to locating, rescuing, and ensuring the health of abandoned and stray animals, primarily focusing on dogs. They also work to reunite lost pets with their owners and promote dog and pet adoption to find loving homes for those in need.

8. PAWTROL Highway Rescue

• Location: Dubai, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs and cats
• Instagram: @rfruae_rescue.foster.rehome
• Adoption Process:
  • Reach out via their Instagram page to express interest in adoption.
  • Complete an adoption application form provided by the organization.
  • Discuss your experience and suitability for pet adoption with a volunteer.
  • A home visit may be arranged to ensure it’s pet-friendly.
  • A fee is required to cover medical and care expenses.
• About: PAWTROL Highway Rescue is a community-driven initiative focused on rescuing stray and injured dogs and cats from highways and streets in the UAE. They provide medical care and work towards finding these animals permanent homes through dog and cat adoption programs.

9. Dubai Rescue Cats

• Location: Dubai, UAE
• Specialties: Cats
• Instagram: @dubairescuedangels
• Adoption Process:
  • Direct message via Instagram to express interest in adopting a cat.
  • Provide information about your experience with pets and the environment you can offer.
  • Discuss adoption suitability and any specific needs of the cat.
  • A fee may be required to cover medical expenses; confirm specifics during the adoption process.
• About: Dubai Rescue Cats is an individual initiative dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray cats in Dubai. Operating primarily through Instagram, they showcase cats available for adoption and share their stories to promote cat adoption and find them loving homes.

10. Pawsome Pets UAE 

• Location: Dubai, UAE

• Specialties: Cats, dogs, and small animals

• Website: Pawsome Pets UAE

• Adoption Process:

1. • Fill out an adoption form on their website.
   • Meet the animals at a foster home or adoption event.
   • Complete a home check and interview.
   • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 500–1,000).

• About: Pawsome Pets UAE is a community-driven initiative focused on rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned pets. They provide foster care, promote responsible pet ownership, and actively support dog and cat adoption to help animals find loving homes.

11. Furrballs

• Location: UAE (primarily Dubai and Sharjah, but they may assist in Ras Al Khaimah as well).
• Specialties: Cats, kittens, dogs, and puppies.
• Website: Furrballs Website 
• Facebook: /furrballs.org
• Adoption Process:
  1. Browse available animals on their Facebook page or contact them directly.
  2. Fill out an adoption application form (available on their Facebook page or via email).
  3. Attend a meet-and-greet session with the animal.
  4. Complete a home check and interview.
  5. Pay an adoption fee (varies depending on the animal and their medical needs).
• About: Furrballs is a non-profit animal rescue organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned cats and dogs in the UAE. They provide medical care, shelter, and love while promoting dog and cat adoption to help these animals find forever homes.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Abu Dhabi

1. Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi (AWAD)

• Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and other small animals.
• Website: https://www.awad.ae
• Adoption Process:

1. 1. Fill out an adoption application on their website.
   2. Attend a meet-and-greet session with the animal.
   3. Undergo a home check and interview.
   4. Pay an adoption fee (varies depending on the animal) to cover vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.

• About: AWAD is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned animals in Abu Dhabi. They focus on dogs, cats, and other small animals, promoting responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and adoption programs to help these animals find loving homes.

2. Stray Dogs Center Abu Dhabi

• Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs and puppies.
• Website: Stray Dogs Center 

1. 1. Complete an adoption application online.
   2. Visit the center to meet the dogs.
   3. Undergo a home check and interview.
   4. Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,000–1,500) to cover medical expenses.

• About: This center focuses on rescuing and rehoming stray dogs and puppies in Abu Dhabi. They provide medical care, shelter, and love to dogs in need while promoting dog adoption to help them find loving forever homes.

3. Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter

• Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and other small animals.
• Website: Animal Shelter 
  
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit the shelter to meet the animals.
  • Fill out an adoption application.
  • Undergo a home check and interview.
  • Pay a nominal adoption fee (varies).
• About: Operated by the government, this shelter provides a safe haven for stray and abandoned dogs, cats, and other small animals. They aim to find loving homes for animals in their care through adoption programs and promote responsible pet ownership.

4. Feline Friends Abu Dhabi

• Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Specialties: Cats and kittens.
• Website: Feline Friends
  
• Adoption Process:
  • Fill out an adoption application on their website.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the cats.
  • Undergo a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 500–700) to cover vaccinations and sterilization.
• About: Feline Friends is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned cats and kittens in Abu Dhabi. They promote TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs and work to find loving homes through cat adoption initiatives.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Sharjah

1. Sharjah Cat & Dog Shelter

• Location: Sharjah, UAE
• Specialties: Cats and dogs
• Website: Sharjah Cat & Dog Shelter
  
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit the shelter to meet the animals.
  • Complete an adoption application form.
  • Undergo an interview and home check.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 500–1,000) to cover vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.
• About: Operated by the Sharjah Municipality, this shelter is one of the largest and most well-known in the UAE. It focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned cats and dogs. The shelter provides a safe haven for animals, promotes responsible pet ownership, and supports dog and cat adoption programs to help them find loving homes.

2. Stray Dogs Center UAQ (Sharjah Branch)

• Location: Sharjah, UAE (with a main center in Umm Al Quwain)
• Specialties: Dogs and puppies
• Website: Stray Dogs Center UAQ
• Adoption Process:
  • Fill out an adoption application on their website.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the dogs.
  • Complete a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,000–1,500) to cover medical expenses.
• About: This center rescues and rehomes stray and abandoned dogs and puppies across the UAE. They provide medical care, and rehabilitation, and work to find loving homes through dog adoption programs.

3. Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi (AWAD) – Sharjah Outreach

• Location: Sharjah, UAE (main center in Abu Dhabi)
• Specialties: Cats, dogs, and other small animals
• Website: Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi
  
• Adoption Process:
  • Submit an adoption application online.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session.
  • Complete a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (varies depending on the animal).
• About: AWAD is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned cats, dogs, and other small animals. They work to raise awareness about animal welfare and promote adoption programs to help these animals find loving homes.

4. Feline Friends (Sharjah Outreach)

• Location: Sharjah, UAE
• Specialties: Cats and kittens
• Website: Feline Friends
  
• Adoption Process:
  • Submit an adoption application online.
  • Meet the cats at a foster home or adoption event.
  • Complete a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 500).
• About: Feline Friends is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned cats and kittens. They provide education on cat care and welfare and actively promote cat adoption to help these animals find loving homes.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Ajman

1. Ajman Animal Shelter

• Location: Ajman, UAE
• Specialties: Cats, dogs, and small animals
• Instagram: @ajmananimals
• Adoption Process:
  • Contact them via social media for available pets.
  • Complete the adoption form and provide details about your home.
  • Meet the pets and proceed with the adoption process.
  • Pay an adoption fee to help with veterinary care.
• About: Ajman Animal Shelter is a local shelter focused on rescuing and rehoming abandoned or stray cats, dogs, and small animals. They provide a safe haven for animals in need and promote adoption programs to help them find loving homes.

2. Ajman Pet Care Center

• Location: Ajman, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and small animals
• Website: Pet Care Center
• Facebook: /PetCareAE
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit their website or social media for available pets.
  • Complete an adoption application form.
  • Meet the animals and schedule a visit.
  • Pay an adoption fee to help cover medical care, vaccinations, and sterilization.
• About: Pet Care UAE is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned and stray dogs, cats, and small animals. They provide adoption, fostering, and veterinary services to ensure these animals find their forever homes and promote responsible pet ownership.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Umm al-Quwain

1. Stray Dogs Center Umm Al Quwain

• Location: Umm al-Quwain, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs and puppies.
• Website: Stray Dogs Center UAE
• Facebook: /straydogscenter
• Email: operations@sdc-uaq.com
• Adoption Process:
  • Reach out via their Facebook page or email to inquire about available dogs.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the dog(s).
  • Complete an adoption application and home check.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,000) to cover vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.
• About: This volunteer-driven organization focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs and puppies in the Umm al-Quwain area. They provide medical care, shelter, and rehoming opportunities, promoting dog adoption to help these animals find loving homes.

2. Pets Oasis UAE

• Location: Umm Al Quwain, UAE  
• Specialties: Cats, dogs, and small animals
• Website: Pets Oasis UAE
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit their website to view available animals for adoption.
  • Complete an adoption application form.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the animals.
  • After a successful interview and home check, proceed with the adoption process.
  • Pay an adoption fee to cover the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.
• About: Pets Oasis is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming abandoned, lost, and stray cats, dogs, and small animals in the UAE. They provide medical care, fostering, and adoption services to help these pets find loving forever homes.

3. Umm Al Quwain Animal Welfare Society 

• Location: Umm Al Quwain, UAE
• Status: The Umm Al Quwain Animal Welfare Society is permanently closed.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Fujairah

1. Stray Dogs Center UAE (Fujairah Outreach)

• Location: Fujairah, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs and cats.
• Website: Stray Dogs Center UAE
• Adoption Process:
  • Fill out an adoption form on their website.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session.
  • Complete a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,000–1,500) to cover medical expenses.

• About: While their main center is in Sharjah, Pets Oasis frequently conducts outreach programs and adoption drives in Fujairah. They actively rescue and rehabilitate stray dogs and cats, providing them with the care and support needed for a better life.

2. Emirates Animal Welfare Society – EAWS (Fujairah Chapter)

• Location: Fujairah, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and small animals.
• Website: EAWS
• Facebook: /eaws.uae
• Adoption Process:
  • Contact them via their website or social media.
  • Arrange a meeting with the animal.
  • Complete a home check and adoption application.
  • Pay an adoption fee (varies by animal).

• About: A non-profit organization operating across the UAE, including Fujairah, dedicated to rescuing and rehoming animals. They also advocate for spaying and neutering to help control the stray population and ensure a healthier environment for animals.

3. Fujairah Animal Rescue

• Location: Fujairah, UAE
• Specialties: Dogs, cats, and small animals
• Facebook:/FujairahAnimalRescue 
• Adoption Process:
  • Contact them via their social media platforms to inquire about available animals for adoption.
  • Fill out an adoption form.
  • Complete a meet-and-greet with the animals.
  • Pay an adoption fee to cover the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, and sterilization.

• About: Fujairah Animal Rescue is committed to rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned animals in Fujairah and nearby areas. They provide essential medical care, foster homes, and dedicated efforts to find loving, permanent homes for the animals in their care.

Pet Adoption Shelters in Ras Al Khaimah

2. RAK Animal Welfare Centre

• Location: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE 
• Specialties: Cats, dogs, and other small animals.
• Website: RAK Animal Welfare Centre
• Facebook: /RAKanimalwelfarecentre 
• Adoption Process:
  • Visit their website or social media pages to view available animals.
  • Contact them to express interest in adoption.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session with the animal.
  • Complete an adoption application and home check.
  • Pay an adoption fee (varies depending on the animal).
• About: A non-profit organization committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray and abandoned animals in Ras Al Khaimah. They provide essential care, medical treatment, and adoption services, focusing on cats, dogs, and other animals in need.

3. Stray Dogs Center UAQ (Nearby)

• Location: Umm Al Quwain, UAE (about 30-40 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah).
• Specialties: Dogs and puppies.
• Website: Stray Dogs Center UAQ

• Facebook: /straydogscenter

• Adoption Process:
  • Browse available dogs on their website or social media.
  • Fill out an adoption application form.
  • Attend a meet-and-greet session.
  • Complete a home check and interview.
  • Pay an adoption fee (approximately AED 1,000-1,500).

• About: A non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray dogs in the UAE. They work closely with communities to promote animal welfare, ensuring dogs receive the care and love they deserve.

Popular Breeds for Adoption in The UAE

Looking to adopt a furry friend? Here are some of the most popular dog breeds that make great companions.

• Labrador Retriever: Friendly, intelligent, and great with families. Medium to large (55–80 lbs), lifespan 10–12 years.
• German Shepherd: Loyal, confident, and versatile. Large (50–90 lbs), lifespan 9–13 years.
• Golden Retriever: Affectionate, adaptable, and excellent with kids. Medium to large (55–75 lbs), lifespan 10–12 years.
• French Bulldog: Playful, compact, and perfect for apartments. Small (16–28 lbs), lifespan 10–12 years.
• Bulldog: Calm, loyal, and great for small spaces. Medium (40–50 lbs), lifespan 8–10 years.

If you want to learn more about popular dog breeds for adoption, this blog is perfect for you: Most Googled Dog Breeds.

First Steps After Adopting a Cat

1. Isolate Your Cat Initially – Keep your new cat separate from other pets for at least a week to help them adjust and prevent potential health risks.
2. Set Expectations with Kids – Teach children how to respect the cat’s space and boundaries to ensure a safe and friendly relationship.
3. Schedule a Vet Appointment – Book a checkup within two weeks to ensure your cat is healthy and up to date on vaccinations.
4. Monitor Their Behavior – Observe your cat for the first month, allowing them to explore while gently guiding their actions.
5. Spend Quality Time – Dedicate daily time for bonding to make your cat feel secure and loved.
6. Start Grooming Early – Regular brushing and nail trimming help with coat health and prevent destructive scratching.
7. Establish a Routine – Maintain consistent feeding, cleaning, and play schedules to build trust and stability.
8. Experiment with Food & Litter – If your cat is picky, try different options until you find what suits them best.
9. Provide Toys for Stimulation – Cats need mental and physical exercise, so offer interactive toys and scratching posts.
10. Create Hiding Spots – Safe spaces help cats feel secure, especially in stressful situations like when guests visit.

By following these steps, you’ll create a comfortable and loving environment for your new feline friend!

How Long Does It Take to Adopt a Pet?

Adopting a cat requires patience, with adaptation typically taking 2 to 5 days. Start by visiting a vet for a health check and setting up a quiet, secure space with essentials like a litter box, feeder, and bed.

In the first days, cats may feel shy or anxious, so provide hiding spots and avoid forcing interactions. Gradually allow exploration, separate rest, litter, and play areas, and add toys and scratching posts for enrichment. With love and patience, they’ll settle in smoothly!

What is the process of pet adoption?

The pet adoption process in the UAE typically involves the following steps:

1. Choose a Shelter: Research reputable shelters like K9 Friends or Animal Adoption UAE.
2. Visit and Select a Pet: Meet animals in person at shelters or adoption events.
3. Complete an Application: Fill out an adoption form with personal details and references.
4. Home Check/Interview: Some shelters may check your home for safety.
5. Pay Adoption Fee: Cover costs for vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and healthcare.
6. Vet Check: Ensure the pet is vaccinated and healthy.
7. Sign Adoption Agreement: Finalize the adoption with a contract.
8. Take Your Pet Home: Prepare your home with the necessary supplies.
9. Post-Adoption Support: Seek guidance from the shelter if needed.

Documents Required for Adoption in the UAE

Adopting a pet in the UAE requires certain documents and procedures to ensure the process is legal and the pet is healthy. Below is a list of the typical documents and steps involved:

1. Adoption Application Form

• Most animal shelters or adoption centers in the UAE will require you to fill out an adoption application form. This form typically includes personal details, your living situation, and your experience with pets.

2. Valid Emirates ID and Passport Copy

• You will need to provide a copy of your valid Emirates ID and passport as proof of identity and residency.

3. Proof of Residence

• A tenancy contract or utility bill showing your current address is often required to confirm that you live in a pet-friendly environment.

4. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Landlord

• If you are renting, you may need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your landlord or property management company, confirming that pets are allowed in your residence.

5. Vaccination and Medical Records

• The pet you are adopting should have up-to-date vaccination records and a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This ensures the pet is healthy and free from contagious diseases.

6. Microchipping

• In the UAE, it is mandatory to microchip your pet. The microchip should be registered with the local municipality (e.g., Dubai Municipality or Abu Dhabi Municipality).

7. Pet Passport (if applicable)

• If the pet is being adopted from another country, it may require a pet passport or import permit, along with proof of vaccinations and health checks.

8. Adoption Fee Receipt

• Most shelters charge an adoption fee to cover the cost of vaccinations, microchipping, and other care. You will need to keep the receipt as proof of payment.

9. Municipal Registration

• After adoption, you must register your pet with the local municipality. This usually involves submitting the pet’s microchip number, vaccination records, and your personal details.

10. Home Visit (if required)

• Some shelters may conduct a home visit to ensure your living environment is suitable for the pet.

11. Pet Insurance (Optional but Recommended)

• While not mandatory, it is recommended to get pet insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Giving Your Pet for Adoption

When & Why to Rehome a Pet

Unfortunately, some life situations can force you to give away a pet such as relocating, having an allergy, money problems, or personal decisions.

Responsible Pet Rehoming

Make sure that your pet is placed in the right caring hands by posting on genuine websites or taking them to a well-reputed shelter.

Legal Guidelines for Giving a Pet for Adoption

The legal guidelines for giving a pet for adoption in the UAE are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, as the text primarily discusses the legalities of child adoption in the UAE.

 However, here are some general legal guidelines and considerations for pet adoption in the UAE:

1. Ownership Transfer: Ensure that the ownership of the pet is legally transferred to the new owner. This may involve signing a transfer of ownership document.
2. Microchipping: In the UAE, pets must be microchipped. Ensure that the microchip information is updated with the new owner’s details.
3. Vaccination and Health Records: Provide the new owner with all relevant health records and vaccination certificates. This is crucial for the pet’s ongoing care and for compliance with local regulations.
4. Adoption Agreements: Some organizations or individuals may require an adoption agreement to be signed, outlining the responsibilities of the new owner.
5. No Abandonment: It is illegal to abandon pets in the UAE. Ensure that the pet is handed over to a responsible individual or a reputable adoption agency.
6. Breed-Specific Regulations: Be aware of any breed-specific regulations that may apply, especially for certain dog breeds that are considered dangerous.
7. Export/Import Regulations: If the pet is being adopted by someone who plans to take the pet out of the UAE, ensure compliance with international pet travel regulations, including vaccinations, health certificates, and quarantine requirements.
8. Animal Welfare Laws: The UAE has animal welfare laws that protect animals from cruelty and neglect. Ensure that the new owner is aware of and committed to these laws.

Getting a pet is one of the most important decisions anyone can ever make, and it is especially remarkable for the love, joy, and companionship it brings to a household. Adopting a pet is not just acquiring a pet; it is a chance to save an animal and foster change. Playful dogs, cuddly cats, and other furry companions are just waiting to be sensed, and there are various organizations and shelters in the UAE that are willing to help you choose the ideal one for you.