Bringing Your Pet to Saudi Arabia: Rules & Process

Relocating to Saudi Arabia or returning from a trip abroad with your dog or cat is entirely possible, but it requires planning well ahead of your travel date. Pet imports are regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) through its dedicated Anaam electronic platform, and the process centers on obtaining an official import permit before you fly. This Saudi Living guide walks you through who can apply, what your pet needs, and how to prepare so arrival day goes smoothly.

Who can bring a pet into the Kingdom

The import permit is issued to the pet owner, so eligibility matters before anything else. To qualify, you generally need to:

• Hold Saudi residency (Iqama) or a national ID — visitors on tourist visas are not authorized to import pets.
• Be at least 30 years old.
• Have access to national e-services such as Absher, so your ID and residency details can be linked when you apply through a service provider.

Keep in mind that each import permit typically covers up to two pets, and each importer can obtain only one permit every 180 days. Plan accordingly if you have several animals.

The import permit through Anaam

The single most important step is securing an import permit via the MEWA Anaam portal before you travel. A few essentials to note:

• The permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, so time your application close to your travel dates.
• It specifies the exact entry port or city — your pet must arrive through the port named on the permit.
• Import is only allowed from countries listed within Anaam, so confirm your country of origin is eligible.
• Processing takes around 10 working days, which is why early application is strongly advised.

Microchip and identification

Both dogs and cats must be identified with an electronic microchip. The standard is an ISO-compliant 15-digit chip, which international scanners can read at the border. For cats especially, the microchip must be implanted before vaccinations are given, so the vaccination record ties clearly to the animal. Make sure the chip number matches every document you submit.

Vaccinations and health requirements

Your pet must be healthy and up to date on its core vaccinations. Requirements for cats typically include:

• An ISO-compliant microchip implanted before any vaccinations.
• A rabies vaccination given at least 30 days before travel, and usually no more than 6–12 months before, with several months of validity remaining at the time of import.
• An FVRCP vaccination (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and panleukopenia) that is valid and administered at least two weeks before export.

Dogs follow the same logic of microchip-first identification and current rabies protection. Always have your veterinarian confirm the latest requirements before booking, as timing is strict.

Documents you'll need to apply

When submitting your import application through Anaam, prepare clear copies of the following:

• A health certificate from an accredited veterinary clinic.
• The pet passport or vaccination record showing the microchip/identification number.
• The owner's national ID, passport, or residence permit (Iqama).
• A clear photograph of the pet.
• Any invitation to participate, if the pet is entering for an event or race.

Traveling out and coming back with your pet

If you're leaving the Kingdom temporarily and your pet is traveling with you, you can obtain an exit and return permit from the Anaam platform. One key condition applies: the return period must not exceed 60 days. This route is useful for short holidays or trips home when you intend to bring the same animal back.

Practical tips for a smooth arrival

• Start the process at least a month before travel to absorb the roughly 10 working-day processing time and any vet appointment scheduling.
• Double-check that your chip number is identical across the health certificate, vaccination record, and application.
• Book your flight to arrive at the exact port or city named on your permit.
• Keep printed and digital copies of all documents to present on arrival.

Because specific fees and detailed conditions can change, always confirm the current rules and any charges directly on the official MEWA Anaam platform before you finalize your travel plans. With the paperwork done correctly and in advance, bringing your companion to Saudi Arabia can be a straightforward part of your move.

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