Animal Health and Welfare in the UAE refers to the framework of laws, regulations, and practices aimed at ensuring the proper care, treatment, and management of animals. It encompasses animal protection, veterinary health, and compliance with international standards for animal health.
Why is Animal Health and Welfare Required?
Public Health and Safety
To prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases (diseases that can transfer from animals to humans) and ensure food safety.
Animal Protection
To safeguard animals from abuse, neglect, or exploitation and promote ethical treatment.
Trade and Export Compliance
To meet international health standards for importing/exporting animals and animal products.
Biodiversity Conservation
To protect native species and ecosystems.
Global Standards
To align with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) guidelines.
Process for Compliance
Veterinary Inspection
- Animals must undergo veterinary checks to ensure they are free from infectious diseases.
- Regular inspections are conducted for farms, zoos, and pet shelters.
Licensing and Permits
- Businesses involved in breeding, selling, or transporting animals must obtain licenses.
- Veterinary clinics and hospitals must comply with regulations and obtain approval.
Adherence to Standards
- Compliance with specific handling, housing, and transportation standards.
Awareness Programs
- Training for staff in handling and caring for animals.
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In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) oversees various services related to animal health and welfare. Below is a summary of the government fees associated with these services:
Veterinary Health Certificate
Purpose
- Ensures animals are free from diseases before export, import, or transport within the UAE.
Government Fees
- AED 400: Veterinary Health Certificate for commercial purposes.
- AED 100: Veterinary Health Certificate for personal purposes (not exceeding two animals).
Documents Required
- Animal vaccination records (e.g., rabies).
- Veterinary inspection report.
- Transport details (if applicable).
- Emirates ID copy (for individuals).
- Trade license (for companies dealing with animals).
Validity
- 30 days from the date of issuance.
Process
- Submit an application on the MOCCAE online portal or visit an approved veterinary center.
- Attach the required documents.
- Pay the fees.
- Receive the Veterinary Health Certificate.
License for Veterinary Clinics and Hospitals
Purpose
- Required for operating a veterinary clinic or hospital in the UAE.
Government Fees
- AED 2,000: Issuance or renewal of a license.
Process
- Apply through the MOCCAE portal or local municipality.
- Submit the required documents.
- Schedule an inspection for approval.
- Pay the fees.
- Receive the license.
Documents Required:
- Trade license copy.
- Facility inspection report.
- Proof of qualified veterinary staff (certificates and licenses).
- Emirates ID and passport copies of the applicant.
- Facility layout plan.
Validity
- 1 year, renewable annually.
Permit for Animal Shelters, Zoos, and Breeding Centers
Purpose
- Ensures ethical care and management of animals in facilities.
Government Fees
- AED 2,000: Issuance or renewal of a license.
Documents Required:
- Proof of facility ownership or lease agreement.
- Animal welfare management plan.
- Vaccination and health records of animals.
- Emirates ID and passport copies.
- Inspection report.
Process
- Submit an application through MOCCAE or local municipality.
- Provide required documents and schedule an inspection.
- Pay the fees.
- Obtain the permit.
Validity
- 1 year, renewable annually.
Animal Transport Permit
Purpose
- Regulates the movement of animals within the UAE or internationally.
Government Fees
- AED 50: Issuance of transport permit.
Documents Required:
- Veterinary Health Certificate.
- Details of transport arrangements.
- Emirates ID or trade license.
- Vaccination records of the animal(s).
Process
- Apply via the MOCCAE online portal or at an approved veterinary center.
- Attach the necessary documents.
- Pay the fees.
- Receive the permit.
Validity
- Specific to the date of transport.
Registration of Veterinary Medicines and Products
Purpose
- Required for importing or selling veterinary medicines and products in the UAE.
Government Fees
- AED 1,000–5,000 (depending on the product type and quantity).
Documents Required
- Product specifications and composition.
- Manufacturer details and certificates.
- Test results and approvals from the country of origin.
- Import/export license.
- Trade license.
Process
- Register the product through the MOCCAE system.
- Submit all required documents.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Receive the product registration certificate.
Validity
- 1–5 years, depending on the product registration.
Animal Import/Export Permit
Purpose
- Regulates the entry and exit of live animals to/from the UAE.
Government Fees
- AED 500: Issuance of import/export permit.
- Additional inspection fees may apply.
Documents Required
- Veterinary Health Certificate from the exporting country.
- Import/export application form.
- Vaccination records.
- Emirates ID or trade license.
Process
- Submit an application on the MOCCAE portal.
- Attach the required documents.
- Pay the fees.
- Obtain the permit.
Validity
- Permit is valid for one shipment.
Good Animal Welfare Practice Certificate
Purpose
- Certifies compliance with welfare standards in animal-related businesses.
Government Fees
- AED 1,000: Issuance of the certificate.
Documents Required
- Facility inspection report.
- Animal welfare management plan.
- Proof of training for staff.
- Trade license copy.
Process
- Submit the application via MOCCAE.
- Schedule a facility inspection.
- Pay the fees.
- Receive the certificate.
Validity
- 1 year.