SAMIHAH ZAMAN (ABU DHABI)
Pet owners in the emirate of Abu Dhabi must ensure that their cats and dogs are registered, in keeping with municipal regulations that come into force on Tuesday, February 3.
The guidelines, which were first announced by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in 2025, also mandate a Dh1,000 fine for unregistered pets, as well as a Dh500 fine if registration is not renewed on time.
The initiative is designed to create a centralised database of pets and their owners, with the aim of enhancing animal welfare and ensuring responsible pet ownership.
In its statement, the DMT explained that the programme also emphasises pet health through tracking annual vaccination, microchipping, and regular medical checks.
Currently, owners can complete registration procedures free of charge by visiting any veterinary clinic in Abu Dhabi and presenting the necessary documents, including the owner's Emirates ID and the pet's passport.
The pet passport, which is issued in the UAE by veterinary clinics, records microchip and vaccination details, and has thus far acted as the sole identifying documentation for cats and dogs in Abu Dhabi.
As part of the new initiative, relevant details related to pets and their owners are recorded by veterinary clinic staff on the Abu Dhabi Government's TAMM platform.
A receptionist at a veterinary clinic on Reem Island said the facility had been working with clients over the past year to ensure that the pets under its care are registered on TAMM.
Dr Fadi Daoud, head vet and managing director at Australian Veterinary Hospital, told Aletihad the clinic had seen "a massive influx" of pet owners looking to register their furry friends.
"This is a fantastic step by Abu Dhabi municipal authorities because it links pet ownership with responsibility and accountability. Not only can people rest assured now that their pets, if lost, can be easily tracked and returned, but it also guarantees safety for animals in Abu Dhabi," Daoud said.
The registration procedures are also very simple for pet owners to follow, which further ensures compliance.
"Honestly, our clients are happy to adhere to the new requirements, with many saying that they will now feel less worried if their pet does happen to wander off because it be easily traced," he added.
Pet shops in Abu Dhabi have meanwhile had to comply with an earlier deadline to register cats and dogs under their ownership; the DMT requirements released in January 2025 specified a six-month grace period for pet shops to complete registration procedures for all cats and dogs.
Within the UAE, it is also mandatory to register pets in Dubai. Dubai Municipality introduced its registration policy in 2015, and publishes a regularly updated list of accredited veterinary clinics.