Is It Legal to Sell Pets Online in Dubai? Here’s the Answer
By The Souq Finder
With the rise of online marketplaces and social platforms, many Dubai residents wonder:
“Is it legal to sell pets online in Dubai?”
The short answer is yes—but only if you follow specific laws and regulations.
In this guide, The Souq Finder breaks down everything you need to know about the legal status of selling pets online in Dubai, including licensing, health rules, and where you can safely advertise.
Yes, Selling Pets Online in Dubai Is Legal—Under These Conditions
The UAE allows individuals and businesses to sell pets online, but only if they meet strict animal welfare and trade laws set by:
- Dubai Municipality
- Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)
- UAE Federal Animal Welfare Law (No. 16 of 2007, updated in 2018)
Failing to meet these rules can lead to fines, penalties, or criminal charges.
Who Can Sell Pets Legally in Dubai?
🟢 Legal Sellers:
- Licensed pet shops and breeders
- Individuals rehoming their own vaccinated pets (occasionally)
- Rescue groups and shelters with proper authorization
🔴 Illegal Sellers:
- Unlicensed breeders selling pets for profit
- Individuals selling sick, unvaccinated, or underage animals
- Sellers of banned dog breeds or exotic/wildlife animals
⚠️ Always check if the pet you’re selling is legal in the UAE. Selling banned breeds or species without a permit can result in fines up to AED 500,000.
Legal Requirements Before You Sell a Pet Online
Whether you’re rehoming a cat or selling puppies from a licensed litter, these rules apply:
1. Pet Must Be Vaccinated and Microchipped
Proof of vaccinations and microchip ID is mandatory for sale or transfer.
2. Minimum Age is 8 Weeks
Selling younger animals is considered unethical and often illegal.
3. Health Certificate Required
You’ll need a recent veterinary certificate (issued within 14 days of the sale).
4. Pet Trade License for Frequent Sellers
If you’re selling pets regularly or for business purposes, you must obtain a license from MOCCAE or Dubai Municipality.
Where Can You Legally Sell Pets Online in Dubai?
Use only approved and moderated platforms:
✅ Recommended Platforms:
- TheSouqFinder.com – UAE-focused and pet-compliant
- Dubizzle (Pets section) – Popular local classifieds
- Verified Facebook rehoming groups – Ensure strict moderation
❌ Avoid:
- Random WhatsApp/Telegram groups
- International sites that don’t verify users
- Unmoderated classified platforms
🛡️ These platforms may not enforce UAE laws, putting you and your listing at legal risk.
What Not to Do When Selling Pets Online
- ❌ Don’t lie about the pet’s age, breed, or health status
- ❌ Don’t sell animals without vaccines or ID
- ❌ Don’t sell to anonymous or suspicious buyers
- ❌ Don’t post listings on unapproved or black-market sites
Final Verdict
So, is it legal to sell pets online in Dubai?
Yes—but only if you follow the rules.
Respect the law, protect the animal’s welfare, and choose responsible platforms. Doing so helps create a safer, more ethical pet community in the UAE.
The Souq Finder proudly supports safe, legal pet sales by connecting genuine sellers and buyers—while always putting animal welfare first.
