Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
No more leaving furry friends at home as Abu Dhabi opens its doors to pets at hotels and restaurants.
Under new amendments approved by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), hotels and restaurants holding tourism licences can now allow owners to bring their pets, such as cats and dogs, into designated areas of their facilities.
The move comes as part of the amendments to Chairman’s Decision No. (4) of 2018, issued under Law No. (2) of 2012, which governs public health, safety and animal control.
Under Administrative Decision 23/2025, establishments choosing to admit pets must set aside specific spaces, primarily outdoor seating, balconies or patios, and may also offer suitable indoor or enclosed areas as long as health, safety and animal welfare standards are maintained.
Pet owners have welcomed the shift with enthusiasm, expressing their happiness with the decision.
“Only other pet owners would be able to understand how it feels when we leave our pets at home. This change means I can finally enjoy outings without worrying about leaving my dog Bella at home and feeling guilty,” Deema Fayed, an Abu Dhabi resident, told Aletihad.
She said that this makes everyday life feel more inclusive and less stressful, “I cannot wait to have more outings with my dog, have a good time and make memories”.
Kelly Allen, another Abu Dhabi resident, who owns a four-year-old British short-hair cat, said that she always had a hard time finding a proper cat sitter when away.
“I always hesitate to book weekend staycations because it is challenging to trust strangers with your pet, but now that I can take my cat. It changes everything and I can plan trips knowing she can be part of the experience and I will not have to worry or budget for cat sitting too,” Allen told Aletihad.
Veterinarian Omar Baddawi said that the new amendment is welcome news as the new policy further fosters connection between owners and their pets.
“Dogs are actually very social, research says that 20% of dogs suffer from separation anxiety, so this will be a solution for dogs to accompany their owners more which will help with the anxiety,” Baddawi told Aletihad.
He noted that it is important for all establishments to have clear guidelines and to offer cool areas for the pets, especially during the summer months.
“Heat can harm pets in different ways. It is also important for owners to know how to go out with their pets and what they need to do to give them comfort and keep them safe in all conditions anywhere,” Baddawi explained.
Previously, pets were prohibited in restaurants and most hospitality settings, with exceptions only for certified service animals.
The updated regulations give venues the discretion to become pet‑friendly while ensuring safety and comfort for all patrons.
Fahad Ali Alshehhi, Acting Executive Director of Municipal Services Operations Support Sector at the DMT, stressed that the amendments are part of a broader push to promote inclusivity and bolster Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leading global destination with exceptional hospitality standards, contributing to its recognition as the most liveable city in the MENA region by the Economist Intelligence Unit.
