What You Need to Know Before Selling Pets Online in Dubai
By The Souq Finder
Dubai’s vibrant online marketplace makes it easier than ever to sell pets—but it also comes with serious legal and ethical responsibilities. Whether you’re a breeder, pet owner, or rescuer, there are crucial things to understand before listing your animal online.
In this article, The Souq Finder breaks down what you need to know before selling pets online in Dubai, from licensing and laws to platforms and best practices.
1. Understand the Legal Requirements
The UAE has strict animal welfare laws, and Dubai enforces them rigorously.
Key Laws You Must Follow:
- You must be licensed by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) to breed and sell pets commercially.
- Pets must be:
- Vaccinated
- Microchipped
- At least 8 weeks old before being sold
- Selling banned dog breeds or exotic animals without permits is illegal.
- It’s prohibited to list sick, injured, or malnourished animals for sale.
🛑 Selling pets illegally can result in fines, animal seizure, or a ban from classified platforms.
2. Be Honest and Transparent in Your Listings
When creating your pet listing, full transparency builds trust with potential buyers.
Include:
- Clear photos in good lighting
- Breed, age, sex, and vaccination details
- Health condition and temperament
- Reason for selling or rehoming
- Any accessories included (cage, toys, food)
🎯 Listings that are informative and genuine attract more responsible buyers.
3. Choose the Right Platform
Where you list your pet matters. Avoid shady groups or unregulated marketplaces.
Recommended Platforms:
- ✅ TheSouqFinder.com – Local, trusted, and pet-friendly
- ✅ Dubizzle Pets – Popular with UAE residents
- ⚠️ Facebook Groups – Use only verified rehoming groups with moderation
- ❌ Avoid unknown or international platforms without UAE compliance
🔒 Use platforms with strict posting rules and user verification to avoid scams.
4. Vet Your Potential Buyers
You’re not just making a sale—you’re choosing a new home for a living being.
Ask questions like:
- Have you owned this breed before?
- Do you live in a pet-friendly environment?
- Are you aware of the care, time, and expenses involved?
🧠 Responsible pet ownership starts with proper screening.
5. Finalize the Sale Ethically
When you find a suitable buyer, ensure the handover is smooth and safe.
Checklist:
- Meet in a public place or safe location
- Bring vaccination and medical records
- Explain diet, behavior, and care tips
- Accept payment securely (cash or bank transfer)
- Optional: Sign a basic pet transfer form
🚚 If needed, consider a local pet transport service for delivery.
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
To stay on the right side of the law and protect the pet’s welfare:
- ❌ Don’t post vague or misleading information
- ❌ Don’t sell underage or sick pets
- ❌ Don’t negotiate with unverified or suspicious buyers
- ❌ Don’t use platforms that don’t moderate illegal listings
Final Thoughts
Selling pets online in Dubai is a responsibility—not just a transaction. Make sure you’re compliant with UAE law, transparent in your listings, and selective about where and to whom you sell. By doing so, you’ll protect yourself legally and ensure your pet finds a safe, loving home.
The Souq Finder is committed to making responsible pet selling easy, safe, and legal for all users in Dubai and the wider UAE.
