# Can I travel with pet on Emirates Airlines? You can travel with pets on Emirates Airlines in cargo with specific rules; arrange in advance or call at 1-888-760-1051 support. When planning a journey, many travelers face the question of what to do with their pets. Some people consider leaving their furry friends with family members or boarding facilities, while others cannot imagine traveling without them. If you are considering a trip with Emirates Airlines, you may wonder whether your pet can accompany you and under what conditions. Emirates Airlines is one of the largest and most recognized international airlines, flying across continents with a reputation for service and comfort. But when it comes to pet travel, its policies are more specific and restrictive compared to some other carriers. This article explores the details of traveling with pets on Emirates Airlines. We will go step by step to understand whether pets are allowed in the cabin, in the cargo hold, or through specialized transport services. By the end, you will know exactly what options are available for cats, dogs, and other animals, as well as how to prepare if you want your pet to travel on Emirates. --- ## Understanding the Emirates Airlines Pet Policy Emirates Airlines operates a global network of flights, connecting the Middle East with Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and beyond. Because it is an international carrier, its pet travel rules are shaped by a mix of airline policy, country specific entry laws, and safety standards. Unlike some airlines that allow small pets in the cabin, Emirates does not generally allow animals to travel inside the passenger cabin. The only exception to this rule is for recognized service animals under certain conditions. For all other pets, Emirates provides transport through the cargo system, which is specially designed for animal safety. This policy may come as a surprise to travelers who are used to seeing pets under seats on other airlines, but Emirates maintains its focus on consistent safety and comfort for all passengers and animals. --- ## Are Pets Allowed in the Cabin on Emirates For most travelers, the answer is no. Emirates does not allow cats or dogs in the cabin, regardless of their size. The only animals permitted to accompany passengers inside the cabin are trained service animals, which are accepted on specific routes. Service animals, such as guide dogs for visually impaired passengers, may travel in the cabin free of charge. These animals must remain harnessed and under control during the journey, and they cannot occupy a seat. Instead, they stay at the passenger’s feet throughout the flight. Emotional support animals are not recognized in the same way, meaning they cannot travel in the cabin and are instead handled under the regular pet transport rules. --- ## Pets in the Cargo Hold Since pets are not permitted in the cabin, Emirates provides a comprehensive cargo service for animals. The airline has developed a specialized system called Emirates SkyCargo, which is recognized worldwide for transporting animals safely and efficiently. Pets traveling in the hold are placed in climate controlled, pressurized areas designed to ensure their comfort during the journey. This cargo system can handle both short haul and long haul flights, making it possible for cats, dogs, and other animals to travel across the globe. The hold is separate from passenger luggage areas and is monitored closely to maintain proper conditions. --- ## Pets as Cargo with Emirates SkyCargo Emirates SkyCargo is the dedicated division for transporting animals and goods. When pets travel with Emirates, they are processed through this service. SkyCargo handles everything from documentation to loading and unloading, with a strong emphasis on animal welfare. The service is not limited to cats and dogs. Birds, exotic animals, and even larger species can be transported through Emirates SkyCargo under international standards. However, passengers must comply with the regulations of both departure and arrival countries, which can include quarantine requirements, vaccinations, and permits. --- ## Service Animals on Emirates As mentioned earlier, Emirates makes exceptions for service animals. Trained guide dogs are accepted free of charge on certain routes, especially to and from destinations where local regulations require their acceptance. The service animal must be properly harnessed and remain under the control of the passenger at all times. Advance notification is strongly recommended, as the airline must prepare seating arrangements to accommodate the animal safely. It is important to note that emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy animals do not fall under this category. They are instead transported through the SkyCargo system as regular pets. --- ## Types of Animals Allowed Cats and dogs make up the majority of pets transported by Emirates, but other animals are also accepted through SkyCargo. These may include birds, rabbits, or exotic animals, depending on destination laws. However, Emirates may place restrictions on certain breeds, particularly snub nosed dog and cat breeds, which are more prone to respiratory issues during air travel. Passengers should always check breed restrictions before making a reservation, as certain breeds may be prohibited for safety reasons. --- ## Booking a Pet with Emirates When traveling with Emirates, booking a pet requires advance planning. Since animals cannot be added during online passenger booking, arrangements must be made separately through Emirates SkyCargo or by contacting the airline. It is important to book early, as space for animals on each flight is limited and subject to aircraft availability. The airline also needs time to verify documents, prepare kennels, and coordinate handling staff at both ends of the journey. --- ## Pet Travel Fees Transporting a pet on Emirates involves fees, which depend on the size and weight of the animal along with its kennel. Fees are calculated based on the total combined weight and the destination. Since animals travel as cargo, the cost can be higher than what passengers might expect on airlines that allow pets in the cabin. However, the cost reflects the specialized service, climate control, and monitoring that pets receive through Emirates SkyCargo. --- ## Kennel and Carrier Requirements Emirates follows the International Air Transport Association standards for animal kennels. Pets must be placed in sturdy, escape proof kennels large enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. The kennel must have proper ventilation on all sides, a leak proof base, and a secure locking system. Food and water containers must be attached inside the kennel, and labels identifying the animal and contact details of the owner should be visible. Emirates staff will check all kennels during check in to ensure they meet safety standards. --- ## Check In for Pets Unlike passenger check in, pets traveling with Emirates through SkyCargo must be delivered to the cargo terminal at the departure airport. The exact timing varies, but in most cases pets must be checked in several hours before the flight. This allows staff to complete paperwork, inspect the kennel, and ensure the animal is ready for travel. Passengers must present required documents, which may include veterinary health certificates, vaccination records, and import permits depending on the destination country. --- ## After Arrival Once the flight lands, pets traveling with Emirates are not delivered at passenger baggage claim. Instead, they are released through the cargo facility, where owners can collect them after clearing customs and veterinary checks if required. This process may take extra time, so travelers should plan accordingly and have all necessary paperwork ready. --- ## Health and Age Requirements Emirates requires pets to be in good health before travel. Animals that appear sick, aggressive, or unfit for transport may be denied. Kittens and puppies must be at least a specified age before traveling, often 16 weeks depending on vaccination requirements. Certain destinations may require microchipping, rabies vaccinations, or blood tests. Since these rules are set by governments rather than the airline, passengers are responsible for ensuring compliance. --- ## Preparing Your Pet for Emirates Travel Air travel can be stressful for pets, especially when they must travel in cargo. Proper preparation is essential for their comfort and safety. * Introduce your pet to the kennel well before the trip * Place familiar bedding or toys inside the kennel for comfort * Feed your pet lightly before travel to avoid stomach upset * Provide access to water before check in * Allow exercise before boarding to help reduce stress These steps can make the journey smoother for both pet and owner. --- ## Advantages of Emirates Pet Travel * Dedicated SkyCargo service ensures professional animal handling * Climate controlled and pressurized environment for safety * Acceptance of a wide variety of animals beyond cats and dogs * Global network allows long distance pet transport * Recognized service animals travel free of charge in the cabin on certain routes --- ## Limitations of Emirates Pet Policy * No pets allowed in the cabin except service animals * All other pets must travel as cargo, which can be expensive * Breed restrictions apply, especially for snub nosed animals * Advance booking is mandatory with limited availability * Arrival process through cargo facilities may take extra time --- ## Tips for a Smooth Experience 1. Contact Emirates well in advance to confirm pet acceptance 2. Prepare all veterinary documents and permits early 3. Use an IATA approved kennel for safety 4. Help your pet get used to the kennel before travel 5. Plan extra time at departure and arrival airports 6. Keep calm and reassure your pet during check in 7. Arrange ground transportation from the cargo facility in advance --- ## Why Emirates Pet Policy Is Unique Emirates differs from many airlines in that it does not allow pets in the passenger cabin except for service animals. While this may feel restrictive, the airline offsets it with one of the most advanced cargo systems for animals in the industry. This ensures that pets traveling long distances receive professional care and attention throughout their journey. For passengers with service animals, Emirates offers cabin travel at no additional cost, demonstrating flexibility where needed. For others, the SkyCargo system provides a reliable option for global pet transport. --- ## Final Thoughts Yes, you can travel with a pet on Emirates Airlines, but only under specific conditions. Pets such as cats and dogs cannot travel in the cabin unless they are recognized service animals. Instead, they are transported through Emirates SkyCargo in climate controlled, pressurized areas designed for animal welfare. The process involves careful planning, including booking in advance, preparing a proper kennel, securing veterinary documents, and paying the applicable fees. While this may seem complex, it ensures that pets are transported safely and in accordance with international standards. For passengers who want to bring their furry friends on long distance journeys, Emirates offers a professional solution through its SkyCargo system. With the right preparation, your pet can travel across the world alongside you, even if not in the cabin. Traveling with pets always requires extra effort, but with Emirates Airlines, you can be assured that your animal companion will be handled with care every step of the way.