How to Get a Pet Care License in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Are you planning to start a pet care business in Dubai? Whether it’s pet grooming, boarding, pet sitting, training, or veterinary services, securing the right license is the first and most important step toward building a legal, professional, and trustworthy operation. With Dubai’s pet industry on the rise and a growing demand for high-quality animal care, entrepreneurs have a golden opportunity to turn their passion for pets into a successful business, provided they follow the correct regulatory path.

In Dubai, all pet-related businesses must comply with guidelines set by authorities such as the Department of Economic Development (DED) and Dubai Municipality. Operating without the proper license can lead to fines, facility shutdowns, and reputational damage. A valid pet care license ensures you meet health, safety, and welfare standards while also giving you access to commercial spaces, advertising rights, and customer trust. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of obtaining a pet care license in Dubai, from choosing the right business activity to getting final approvals.

WHY A PET CARE LICENSE IS ESSENTIAL IN DUBAI

Dubai has clear and strict regulations governing pet-related businesses to safeguard animal welfare, public safety, and community hygiene. These rules are enforced by authorities such as the Dubai Municipality, Department of Economic Development (DED), and in some cases, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Operating without a proper pet care license not only puts your business at legal risk but can also result in heavy penalties, fines, forced shutdowns, and even a permanent ban on conducting animal-related services in the UAE.

A valid pet care license in Dubai ensures that your business meets the required health and safety standards, follows ethical treatment practices, and operates in an approved commercial zone. It also builds trust with customers, allowing you to advertise legally, sign commercial leases, open business bank accounts, and partner with suppliers or other service providers. Most importantly, it shows your commitment to responsible pet care, an increasingly important factor for pet owners seeking quality services. Whether you’re starting a pet grooming salon, dog daycare, or mobile veterinary clinic, having the right license gives you a competitive advantage and positions your brand as credible and compliant in a growing market.  A pet care license in Dubai ensures:

• Compliance with Dubai Municipality rules
• Trust and credibility with customers
• Access to commercial spaces and advertising platforms

TYPES OF PET CARE BUSINESSES REQUIRING A LICENSE

In Dubai, various pet-related businesses require proper licensing to operate legally. Depending on your specific services, you may need a license under one or more categories approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other relevant authorities. Each business activity has its own set of requirements, inspections, and approvals, especially if animals are being housed, groomed, transported, or treated. Here are the main types of pet care businesses that require licensing in Dubai:

• Pet Grooming Services: If you offer bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, or styling services for cats, dogs, and other pets, whether in a salon or mobile unit, you must obtain a commercial grooming license and meet hygiene standards.

• Pet Boarding & Daycare: Facilities that house pets temporarily (overnight or during the day) must comply with Dubai Municipality regulations regarding space, cleanliness, ventilation, and animal welfare.

• Pet Sitting & Dog Walking: Even freelance or home-based services like pet sitting, dog walking, or feeding require formal registration to ensure safety and legal compliance.

• Veterinary Clinics & Mobile Vet Units: Veterinary professionals must be licensed through the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) in addition to commercial licensing for the clinic itself.

• Pet Training & Behavior Services: Trainers working with pets on obedience, agility, or behavioral issues need appropriate business activity approvals under pet care or pet services.

• Pet Transportation Services: If you’re moving animals locally or internationally, you’ll need a license that ensures your vehicles and handling procedures meet government standards.

• Pet Food & Supply Retailers: Even retail shops selling pet food, accessories, or pharmaceuticals must register under specific trade activities and maintain product safety and labeling requirements.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO GETTING A PET CARE LICENSE IN DUBAI

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

The first step in getting a pet care license in Dubai is selecting the correct business activity from the list provided by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). This is a crucial decision because it determines the scope of your license, what services you’re legally allowed to offer, and which approvals you’ll need.

Start by visiting the DED website or speaking with a business setup consultant who can guide you through the process. You’ll need to match your services—such as pet grooming, boarding, veterinary services, or pet training—with the official DED activity codes. For example:

• Pet Grooming Services – Activity Code: 960906
• Animal Boarding – Activity Code: 960907
• Veterinary Clinic – Activity Code: 851901 (requires MOCCAE approval)

Choosing the wrong activity can delay the process or lead to compliance issues later, especially if you expand your services. You should also consider whether you plan to operate from a physical location (like a pet spa or boarding facility), a mobile unit, or from home, as this may impact your approval path and facility requirements. By selecting the right business activity upfront, you’ll lay a solid foundation for a smooth licensing process and future business growth.

Step 2: Select the Business Jurisdiction

Once you’ve chosen your business activity, the next important step is to decide where you want to establish your pet care business in Dubai. This choice impacts ownership options, licensing procedures, costs, and your target market. In Dubai, there are two main jurisdictions for setting up a business:

• Mainland Dubai (DED Jurisdiction): Setting up in mainland Dubai means your business will be licensed by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). Mainland licenses allow you to operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE market, including trading with government entities and working with local clients directly. Under recent laws, foreign investors can own 100% of their mainland companies without the need for a local sponsor, making it an attractive option. However, businesses in mainland Dubai must rent commercial premises that meet regulatory standards, and fees can be higher than in free zones.
• Free Zones: Dubai has many free zones such as Meydan Free Zone, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC). Setting up in a free zone offers benefits like full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simpler registration processes. Free zone licenses are ideal if you plan to operate online, export services, or want lower startup costs. However, free zone companies have limitations on trading directly within mainland Dubai and might need a local distributor or agent to sell within the UAE market.

Your choice depends on your business goals, budget, and target clientele. For example, if you want to run a physical pet grooming salon serving residents, mainland Dubai may be preferable. But if your focus is on e-commerce pet supplies or mobile pet services targeting international clients, a free zone setup could be better. Consulting with a business setup expert will help you weigh the pros and cons and select the jurisdiction that aligns best with your pet care business plan.

Step 3: Reserve Your Trade Name

Choosing and registering your business’s trade name is a vital step in the licensing process. Your trade name is the official name under which your pet care business will operate, appear on legal documents, marketing materials, and be recognized by customers and authorities alike. To reserve your trade name, you need to apply through the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) if you’re setting up in mainland Dubai, or through the relevant free zone authority if your business is located in a free zone like Meydan, DMCC, or Dubai Silicon Oasis. Here are some key points to keep in mind when selecting your trade name:

• Uniqueness: Your trade name must be unique and not identical or too similar to existing registered business names in Dubai. This avoids confusion and legal conflicts.

• Compliance with UAE Naming Rules: The UAE has specific naming conventions that you must follow. For example, trade names cannot include offensive language, religious references, or names of government entities. The name should not violate public morals or the public order of the country.

• Reflect Your Business: Choose a name that represents your pet care services, making it easier for potential customers to identify your business. For example, including words like “Pet,” “Grooming,” “Care,” or “Boarding” can help.

• No Personal Names Without Permission: Avoid using personal names or initials unless you have written approval from the person concerned.

The trade name application process is usually straightforward and can be done online through the DED or free zone portals. After submission, the authority will review your proposed name, which generally takes 1–3 working days. Once approved, your trade name is reserved for your exclusive use during the business license application process. Securing your trade name early helps prevent delays later and ensures your brand identity is protected from the start.

Step 4: Submit Initial Approval Request

After reserving your trade name and selecting your business activity, the next critical step is to obtain initial approval from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority. This initial approval is essentially the government’s preliminary green light, allowing you to proceed with the remaining licensing formalities.

The initial approval confirms that your proposed business activity, trade name, and applicant details meet the basic regulatory requirements. It does not mean your license is finalized, but it permits you to move forward with other important steps such as securing a physical location, obtaining external approvals, and preparing your legal documents. Here’s what you need to know about the initial approval process:

• Application Submission: You can submit your initial approval request online through the DED portal for mainland businesses or via the respective free zone authority’s website if you’re setting up in a free zone.

• Documents Required: Basic documents usually include a copy of your passport, Emirates ID (for residents), and a business plan summary or description of your proposed pet care activities.

• Processing Time: Typically, the initial approval is issued within 1 to 5 business days, depending on the jurisdiction and completeness of your application.

• Validity: Initial approval certificates usually have a limited validity period (e.g., 6 months), during which you must complete the rest of the licensing steps, such as finalizing tenancy contracts and obtaining external approvals.

• No Business Operations Yet: It’s important to remember that initial approval does not allow you to start operations or advertise your business. It simply authorizes you to proceed with the formal licensing process.

• Role of Business Setup Experts: If you’re unfamiliar with the process or want to save time, business setup consultants can handle the initial approval application on your behalf, ensuring all paperwork is correct and submitted promptly.

Step 5: Select a Suitable Business Location

Choosing the right physical location for your pet care business is a critical step that directly impacts your licensing approval, operational success, and customer experience. In Dubai, any commercial space used for pet-related services must fully comply with the Dubai Municipality’s regulations designed to ensure animal welfare, hygiene, and public safety. When selecting a business location, keep in mind:

• Regulatory Compliance: The premises must meet specific standards related to cleanliness, ventilation, waste disposal, and noise control to prevent any health hazards or disturbances to neighbors. This is especially important for pet boarding centers, grooming salons, and veterinary clinics where animals spend extended periods.

• Space Requirements: Adequate space must be allocated for animals to move comfortably, with separate areas for different activities such as grooming, resting, feeding, and exercise. The Dubai Municipality will inspect the layout to confirm that these standards are met.

• Facility Features: The location should have proper drainage systems, non-porous flooring, temperature control, and isolation areas for sick or aggressive animals. Safety features like secure fencing and emergency exits are also mandatory.

• Commercial Tenancy Documentation: You will need to provide a valid Ejari (tenancy contract) or proof of ownership for the property. The tenancy contract must explicitly allow the operation of a pet care business, so ensure your landlord agrees to this use.

• Inspection and Approval: Once you finalize a location, Dubai Municipality officials will inspect to verify compliance with all health and safety standards. Passing this inspection is necessary before your trade license is issued.

• Location Suitability: Besides regulatory factors, consider accessibility for your customers, parking availability, and proximity to residential areas or pet-friendly communities to maximize your business’s appeal.

Step 6: Obtain External Approvals

After securing initial approval and selecting a suitable business location, your pet care business must obtain additional clearances from relevant government authorities before your license can be finalized. These external approvals ensure that your operations meet all specific health, safety, and environmental regulations related to animal welfare and public safety. Here are the key authorities involved and when their approvals are required:

• Dubai Municipality (DM): Approval from Dubai Municipality is mandatory for all pet care businesses that involve direct handling, grooming, boarding, or veterinary care of animals. The Municipality’s Veterinary Services Department oversees compliance with hygiene standards, facility inspections, waste disposal protocols, and animal welfare regulations. This step often includes a detailed inspection of your premises to verify that it meets criteria such as cleanliness, proper ventilation, adequate space, and safe handling of animals.

• Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE): If your pet care business includes activities such as importing or exporting animals, running a veterinary clinic, or providing animal health services, you will need additional approval from MOCCAE. This ministry regulates animal health certifications, quarantine requirements, vaccination protocols, and the legal movement of pets across borders. Veterinary professionals must also be registered and licensed through MOCCAE.

• Other Possible Approvals: Depending on your business model, you might also need clearances from local health authorities or environmental agencies, particularly if your operations involve waste management or specialized animal treatments.

Why External Approvals Matter: Obtaining these external approvals ensures that your pet care business adheres to Dubai’s strict standards for animal health and public safety. It also protects your clients, staff, and animals in your care. Failure to secure these approvals can result in license denial, fines, or forced business closure.

How to Streamline the Process: The application process for external approvals can be complex, requiring detailed documentation, facility inspections, and compliance with specific regulations. Engaging a business setup consultant or licensing expert can help you prepare the necessary documents, schedule inspections, and liaise with authorities to speed up approval times.

Step 7: Submit Required Documents

Once you have obtained initial approval and external clearances, the next step is to compile and submit all the necessary documents to the relevant licensing authority, either the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or the free zone authority for businesses located within free zones. Proper documentation is essential for your pet care license application to be processed smoothly and without delays. Typical documents required include:

• Passport Copy and Emirates ID of Owner(s) and Shareholders: These government-issued identification documents verify the identities of all business owners and partners involved in the company. For expatriates, a valid residency visa and Emirates ID are mandatory.

• Tenancy Contract or Ejari: Proof of a commercial lease agreement or property ownership is required to confirm your business location. The tenancy contract should explicitly state that the premises will be used for a pet care business, and it must be registered under the Ejari system, Dubai’s official tenancy registration.

• Initial Approval Certificate: This document confirms that your business activity and trade name have been preliminarily approved by the DED or free zone authority and that you can proceed with the licensing process.

• Trade Name Reservation: Proof that your business name has been officially reserved and is unique, complying with UAE naming regulations.

• Municipality Layout Approvals (if required): For pet care businesses, Dubai Municipality often requires detailed layout plans or floor plans of the commercial premises showing compliance with hygiene, ventilation, and space standards. Approval of these layouts ensures your facility meets all regulatory requirements for animal care.

Additional documents may be requested depending on your specific business activity and jurisdiction, such as professional licenses for veterinary practitioners or health and safety certificates.

Tips for Document Submission:

• Ensure all documents are clear, valid, and up to date.
• Keep both digital and physical copies organized for easy reference.
• Submit documents through the official online portals whenever possible to speed up processing.
• Work with a business setup consultant if you want expert assistance in document preparation and submission to avoid common mistakes.

Step 8: Pay License Fees and Collect Your License

After submitting all required documents and receiving approvals from the relevant authorities, the final step in the licensing process is to pay the necessary fees and officially obtain your pet care trade license. This license legally authorizes you to operate your pet care business in Dubai. Here’s what you need to know about this step:

• License Fees: The cost of your pet care license typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000, depending on several factors including your business activity, chosen jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), and the size of your commercial premises. Additional fees may apply for external approvals, municipality inspections, and other services.

• Payment Methods: Payments can usually be made online via the Department of Economic Development (DED) portal or at the designated government service centers. Free zone authorities also provide convenient online payment options. Ensure you keep receipts and payment confirmations as proof.

• Receiving Your License: Once payment is confirmed, your Pet Care Trade License will be issued. This official document states your business name, activity, license number, and validity period. You will receive a physical or electronic copy, depending on the issuing authority.

• Validity and Renewal: Most trade licenses in Dubai are valid for one year from the date of issue. It is crucial to renew your license annually before expiration to avoid penalties or suspension. Renewal also involves updating documents, paying renewal fees, and sometimes undergoing a fresh inspection.

• Start Operating Legally: With your license in hand, you can now legally advertise your services, enter into contracts, rent commercial spaces, hire staff, and fully operate your pet care business within Dubai’s regulatory framework.

Ongoing Compliance After Licensing

Obtaining your pet care license in Dubai is a major milestone, but maintaining compliance with local regulations is essential to keep your business operating smoothly and legally. After your license is issued, there are several ongoing responsibilities you must fulfill to avoid penalties, fines, or even closure. Here’s what you need to focus on:

• Annual License Renewal: Your pet care trade license is typically valid for one year. It is mandatory to renew it before expiration by submitting updated documents and paying the renewal fees to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or your respective free zone authority. Late renewal may attract fines or suspension of your license.

• Renew Dubai Municipality Pet Facility Permits: If your business involves pet boarding, grooming salons, or veterinary services, you must regularly renew the specific permits issued by Dubai Municipality that regulate hygiene, facility standards, and animal welfare. These permits often require periodic inspections to ensure compliance.

• Maintain Hygiene and Safety Standards: Continued adherence to health, safety, and welfare standards is critical. This includes regular cleaning, proper waste disposal, maintaining ventilation systems, safe animal handling, and preventing the spread of diseases. Non-compliance can lead to fines or forced closure.

• Renew Staff Permits and Training: Ensure that all your employees, especially those directly handling animals, have valid work permits and visas. Additionally, ongoing training in pet care, safety procedures, and first aid is recommended and sometimes required by regulatory bodies to uphold service quality and legal compliance.

• Record Keeping and Reporting: Keep accurate records of animal health, treatments, incidents, and client information as required by Dubai Municipality or MOCCAE regulations. Being prepared for inspections and audits helps avoid operational disruptions.

Cost of Pet Care License in Dubai

SERVICE	APPROXIMATE COST (AED)
Trade License (Mainland)	10,000 – 15,000
Trade License (Free Zone)	8,000 – 12,000
Municipality Approval	2,000 – 5,000
Tenancy / Ejari	Based on space size

Need Help Getting a Pet Care License in Dubai?

Starting a pet business can be exciting, but navigating the licensing process may feel overwhelming. We can connect you with business setup experts in Dubai who’ll guide you through approvals, documents, and cost breakdowns—so you can focus on what you do best: caring for pets!

FAQs: Pet Care License in Dubai

Do I need a license for a home-based pet sitting business in Dubai?

Yes, even home-based pet care requires a valid trade license and may need special zoning or municipality approval.

Can expatriates own a pet grooming business in Dubai?

Absolutely! Expats can own 100% of a pet business through free zones or mainland companies under new ownership laws.

How long does it take to get the license?

Usually 1–3 weeks, depending on approvals and documentation.

Conclusion

Getting a pet care license in Dubai is a legal necessity and a great step toward building a trusted business in the booming UAE pet industry. With the right setup, approvals, and compliance, you’ll be ready to launch a successful pet care venture in no time. If you’re looking for professional guidance and a hassle-free business setup, Avantex is here to help. From licensing to compliance, our expert team ensures every step of your journey is smooth and fully compliant with Dubai’s regulations.