Saudi Arabia (SA)
Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and the world's leading oil producer — a rapidly transforming absolute monarchy embarking on an ambitious Vision 2030 diversification agenda that has already delivered entertainment venues, mixed-gender events, a booming tourism sector, and the Riyadh Metro.
Bringing Pets to Saudi Arabia
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
MOAM (Ministry of Agriculture) import permit application: SAR 200–500. Veterinary health certificate (home country government vet approval): USD 50–200 depending on country. Airline cargo fees for pets: SAR 500–3,000 depending on size and airline. Saudi customs inspection: sometimes an additional fee. Quarantine (if required in exceptional circumstances): variable. Post-arrival MOA inspection: included in permit fee. Total estimated cost for one dog (medium-sized): SAR 2,000–6,000 all-in.
📋 Relocation Process
Step 1 (8–12 weeks before travel): Apply for MOAM (Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources) import permit at the MEWA (Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture) portal (mewa.gov.sa). Step 2 (6–8 weeks before): Get ISO 15-digit microchip implanted (if not already done). Step 3 (after microchip, at least 30 days before travel): Administer rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinarian. Step 4 (within 10 days of travel): Obtain a health certificate from your home country government-accredited veterinarian — must certify microchip, vaccines, and health status. Step 5: Have the health certificate endorsed by your home country's agriculture/veterinary authority (e.g., APHIS for US, APHA for UK). Step 6: Present all documents at arrival airport — pets enter via the cargo section. Step 7: Veterinary inspection at Saudi entry point by MOA inspector. Step 8: Register with a Saudi veterinarian within the first 2 weeks.
CRITICAL — Saudi Arabia officially classifies all dogs as working animals. Dogs must be imported under one of three categories: hunting dog, guard dog, or guide/assistance dog. The function must appear on the veterinary certificate; supporting documentation (hunting licence, security company letter, disability certificate) strengthens the application. Cats are imported as pets without this restriction and face much less scrutiny. Small or companion dog breeds (Chihuahuas, toy breeds, non-working type dogs) are frequently refused — consult MEWA and a specialist pet relocation agent before committing to bringing a small dog. Maximum import: 2 dogs and 2 cats per individual every 6 months. Cats generally have an easier import process than dogs — same documentation requirements but less scrutiny for common breeds. Saudi Arabia has strict customs inspections — do not attempt to bypass the process. Pigs are completely prohibited with no exceptions. Some compounds do not allow pets — confirm your housing situation before bringing a pet. Summer heat (45–50°C) is dangerous for pets — do not exercise dogs between 09:00–18:00 in summer; never leave pets in vehicles; ensure adequate water and shade. Saudi Arabia has limited wildlife compared to other countries — pets need to be protected from desert environment hazards including scorpions and occasional snakes in some areas. When leaving Saudi Arabia, pets require an export permit from MEWA — apply 4–6 weeks before departure.