Most expatriate dog owners are alarmed when they get to Dubai and are told they are not allowed to walk their dogs in public. This regulation has recently become stricter, banning dogs at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). This regulation makes it harder for residents to keep dogs at home and walk them in the neighborhood. Furthermore, it is now prohibited to walk a dog on the Marina Walk, The Palm and at Dubai Marina. In areas such as Palm Jumeirah, “No Dogs Allowed” signs have even been put up in the lobbies of apartment buildings.

Some people feel that because of these new regulations they are forced to either give away their dogs or to move to a more suitable area where they can keep and walk their dogs without the risk of being fined.

While the law in place is strict, rooted in religious beliefs, Move One’s Pet Transportation department has gathered a list of safe places to ease the mind of all of you dog owners:

Nad Al Shiba: There is an area behind the camel market which is safe and far away from main roads. Though the site is about to make way for a mega horse racing project, expats can walk their pets there for now.

Al Warqa: To get here, head straight on Mirdif traffic lights (from Nad Al Hammar towards Khawaneej) and take a right at the next roundabout (Warqa II). Keep heading in a straight direction and make a left turn on the second roundabout. To your right will be a large desert-like area. This place is good for long walks and is a 7 minutes drive from Mirdif.

Jebal Ali: Expats can also walk their dogs on the beach next to Jebel Ali Resort & Spa. Although this isn’t exactly legal, many still do it.

Al Safouh Road: Opposite Dubai College on Al Safouh road is a beach. Expats do take their dogs there as well.

In Abu Dhabi, dogs are prohibited on public beaches but are allowed on ‘open water’ beaches, away from the public and stores. The Shahama Harbour is a good location to walk your pet. To get there, take the Bahia exit and head to the Harbour at Shahama, which is opposite the Yas Island development. The area is relatively quiet with just local fishermen around in the mornings and virtually no one during the day. Pets are also welcome at the beach club and bungalows at the Al Jazira Hotel near Ghantoot. While dogs are restricted to the other end of the beach by the water sports huts and are not allowed in front of or by the pool, expats however, can expect to be charged an entry fee for a day pass.

Please remember to always have your dog on a leash and make sure to pick up its poop.

If you are considering moving to Dubai and need help with the relocation of your pet, or if you have any further questions about our general pet transportation services, please make sure to contact pet@moveoneinc.com. One of our dedicated animal relocation agents will follow up with you shortly with a quote tailor-made to your needs.