Oman (OM)
Oman is one of the most welcoming and stable expat destinations in the Middle East, offering a unique blend of ancient Arabian heritage, dramatic natural landscapes, and a rapidly modernising economy.
Bringing Pets to Oman
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Quarantine duration: Quarantine duration depends on the origin country and is communicated with the import permit from MAFWR. Up to 6 months of quarantine may be imposed even when all documentation requirements are met, depending on your pet's country of origin. Pets from Western Europe, UK, USA, Canada, and Australia typically experience shorter or no quarantine, but this is not guaranteed — confirm the expected quarantine period when receiving your import permit. Use a local relocation agent to assist at customs.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
Import permit: OMR 20–50. Veterinary health certificate: USD 100–300 (home country). Airline pet transport fee: OMR 100–500+ depending on size/airline (Emirates, Oman Air, British Airways all carry pets under certain conditions). Oman customs clearance: OMR 10–30. Local vet registration: OMR 15–30. Total: OMR 200–800+ estimated.
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
No national annual dog tax in Oman. Dog ownership is legal and common. Dogs must be kept on leash in public areas. Some residential areas/compounds have pet restrictions — check lease before bringing dog.
Find a licensed veterinarian in Muscat (Al Qurum Veterinary Clinic, Muscat Vet Centre, German Vet Clinic, PetVet Oman). Annual vaccinations OMR 30–80. Microchip registration in Oman database recommended. Pet food available at Lulu, Sultan Center, and pet shops.
📋 Relocation Process
Step 1: 4+ weeks before — apply for Oman MAFWR Import Permit online or via embassy/agent (permit takes 2–3 weeks). Step 2: 3 weeks before — complete rabies vaccination if not done (must be >21 days before travel). Step 3: 10 days before — get veterinary health certificate from licensed vet + government endorsement from home country agriculture ministry (USDA APHIS, DEFRA, etc.). Step 4: Within 10 days — apply approved tick/flea treatment. Step 5: Travel — present import permit + health certificate + vaccination records to customs at Muscat airport. Step 6: In Oman — register with local veterinary clinic within 30 days.
Oman's climate is harsh for many pets — extreme summer heat (45°C+) means pets should not be outside midday. Ensure accommodation allows pets (many rentals do not). Alcohol and pork restrictions affect some pet foods — check ingredients. Arabic-speaking veterinary staff may be challenging; seek English-speaking clinics in Muscat expat areas. Bringing pets from UK, USA, Australia, Canada, EU is common among expats — process is straightforward if started early. Note: the microchip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standard (15-digit). Check current restricted breeds list with MAFWR as it may be updated; restricted breeds may be denied entry.