Abu Dhabi Introduces Comprehensive Pet-Friendly Tourism Regulations

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has released a structured circular establishing Abu Dhabi pet-friendly regulations that require hotels to meet specific administrative, hygiene and safety standards before advertising themselves as pet-friendly. The move aims to integrate domestic animals into the emirate's tourism offering while preserving standards for all visitors.

Why Abu Dhabi is formalising pet-friendly hospitality

Officials and industry observers note rising global demand for animal-friendly accommodation, prompting Abu Dhabi to update local hospitality standards. The circular serves as a roadmap for hoteliers who want to welcome pets while ensuring uniform service quality across luxury resorts and boutique city hotels.

The primary objective of the new policy is to allow guests to travel with their animals without compromising the comfort of other visitors, positioning the emirate as a modern, inclusive destination that recognizes pets as family members.

Administrative requirements for properties

Before a hotel can market itself as pet-friendly, the DCT requires management to submit a formal notification of intent and publish a clear set of internal policies for staff and guests. Transparency at booking and check-in is mandated so expectations are managed from reservation to departure.

• Formal notification to DCT by hotel management expressing intent to host animals
• Clear internal policies displayed for staff and visitors
• Owners remain responsible for their animals' behaviour and health
• Mandatory documentation: up-to-date vaccination records and health certificates compliant with UAE law

Facility changes and hygiene protocols

Properties that accept animals will need to make physical adjustments and adopt enhanced cleaning routines. The regulations require designated animal zones and strict separation from food-preparation areas to prevent contamination and protect guest health.

• Designated pet zones and exercise/relief areas away from main restaurants and kitchens
• Use of hospital-grade disinfectants in rooms after animal occupancy to remove allergens and bacteria
• Installation of dedicated waste disposal stations to manage animal waste responsibly
• Signage to guide owners to exercise and relief zones

Safety measures and staff training

Guest safety and the comfort of non-pet guests are core to the framework. Hotels must set clear rules for animal conduct in public spaces and ensure staff are trained to handle animal interactions and emergencies.

• Dogs must be leashed or in secure carriers in public hotel areas
• Some breeds or larger animals may face additional restrictions per house rules
• Hotels may refuse animals considered a threat or substantial disturbance
• Staff training on animal interaction and emergency handling is required

Economic and product impacts on tourism

The DCT expects these standards to broaden Abu Dhabi's appeal to pet owners who previously avoided destinations with restrictive policies. Hotels adopting the framework could see higher occupancy and more ancillary spending from services tailored to animals.

• Potential uplift in occupancy from pet-owning travellers during peak and off-peak periods
• Growth in value-added services such as pet spas, animal menus and professional pet-sitting
• Increased competitiveness with global cities offering inclusive tourism products

Conclusion: What this means for travellers and the industry

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi's pet-friendly regulations provide a clear pathway for hotels to welcome domestic animals while safeguarding hygiene, safety and guest comfort. For travellers, particularly pet owners, the rules promise more predictable stays and expanded options in Abu Dhabi. For the hospitality sector, the framework creates standards that can raise service consistency, encourage new pet-related offerings and attract a broader segment of visitors.