Companion animal rules for Abu Dhabi hotel establishments

DCT Abu Dhabi Circular No. 2/2026 — Bringing Companion Animals to Tourism and Hotel Establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Issued: 13 February 2026 Authority: Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

SCOPE OF APPLICATION Applies to all licensed hotel establishments and tourist restaurants in Abu Dhabi, all outdoor areas within those establishments, and animal owners and their companions during their presence. Unfamiliar, prohibited, or dangerous animals are strictly excluded. For purposes of this circular, companion animals are limited to dogs and cats only.

CATS - Must be officially registered, microchipped, and hold a valid vaccination certificate. - Must remain inside a closed, designated carrier at all times while on the premises. - Entry to food preparation areas is strictly prohibited. - Permitted to pass through or be present temporarily only in approved zones.

DOGS - Must be officially registered, microchipped, and hold a valid vaccination certificate. - May only be accompanied in areas authorised under the approved operational requirements. - Owner bears full responsibility for controlling the animal and its behaviour throughout its stay. - Dangerous dog breeds are strictly prohibited. - Must remain leashed with an appropriate restraint at all times inside the establishment.

REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR ESTABLISHMENTS - Establishments may only receive companion animals after fulfilling the conditions approved by the competent authority; DCT may verify compliance through field inspections or documentation review. - A clear, designated area for companion animals must be defined and informational signage indicating permitted and restricted zones must be installed. - A direct external entrance must be provided to animal-designated areas within restaurants, ensuring animals do not pass through reception or food service areas. - Providing food or water to animals inside restaurants or food service areas is prohibited. - Establishments must maintain cleaning and disinfection records for animal areas.

HOTEL ROOM ACCESS - Companion animals may be accommodated in hotel rooms only in designated pet-friendly units. - Specific protocols apply for room hygiene and bedding/linen management. - The hotel must inform guests in advance of its pet policy.

SERVICE ANIMALS - Service animals accompanying persons with disabilities may not be refused entry. - Service animal provisions are set out separately in Item Ninth of the circular and are not subject to the companion animal restrictions above.

EFFECTIVE DATE AND PENALTIES - This circular takes effect from its date of issue. - Non-compliance is subject to regulatory action by DCT and the Department of Municipalities and Transport under the applicable laws and resolutions referenced in the circular.