Abu Dhabi Boosts Its Tourism Appeal By Welcoming Pets Into Hotels And Restaurants With New Guidelines Supporting The Growing Demand For Pet-Friendly Travel

Published on December 26, 2025

Abu Dhabi has introduced new regulations that allow cats and dogs in designated areas of hotels and restaurants, marking a significant shift in the city’s tourism landscape. This move aims to make the emirate more inclusive, catering to the growing number of pet owners who seek destinations where they can travel with their animals. By offering pet-friendly spaces, Abu Dhabi enhances its appeal as a global tourism hub while maintaining high hospitality standards, ensuring both guests and their pets can enjoy a comfortable and safe experience.

Abu Dhabi has introduced new regulations that allow hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses to welcome pets, marking a significant shift in the emirate’s animal control laws. The amendments to the animal control regulations, outlined in Chairman’s Decision No. (4) of 2018, fall under Law No. (2) of 2012, which focuses on public health, safety, and animal control in public spaces.

The new guidelines provide clear instructions for establishments wishing to admit “companion animals,” such as dogs and cats. However, venues must meet specific operational and regulatory requirements to ensure the safety and comfort of both pets and guests. One key requirement is that establishments must designate certain areas for pets, with priority given to outdoor spaces such as terraces, balconies, and patios. In some cases, indoor spaces can also be designated for pets, provided that they meet strict standards concerning health, animal welfare, and overall guest comfort.

These changes reflect Abu Dhabi’s growing focus on inclusivity while upholding high hospitality standards. The initiative is part of the emirate’s strategy to enhance its reputation as a premier global destination, contributing to its standing as one of the most livable cities in the Middle East and North Africa. The city is keen to cater to both international tourists and local residents who wish to travel with their pets, adding an extra layer of convenience and flexibility for pet owners.

Previously, pets were largely excluded from restaurants and other public venues, with exceptions only for certified service animals. The new framework offers greater flexibility by allowing venues to decide whether to become pet-friendly based on their individual facilities, clientele, and capacity to meet the necessary health and safety requirements. This marks a significant change, as pet owners can now enjoy more inclusive experiences in the city’s hospitality industry, reflecting broader global trends in pet-friendly tourism.

The updated policy is a step forward in aligning Abu Dhabi with international pet-friendly destinations. It underscores the emirate’s commitment to ensuring that all visitors, including those traveling with pets, have a positive experience. Whether enjoying a meal or staying at a hotel, pet owners can now bring their animals along without having to worry about leaving them behind.

These changes also offer new opportunities for the hospitality industry to cater to a growing market of pet owners. Many travelers seek destinations that accommodate their pets, and Abu Dhabi’s new policy could enhance the city’s appeal as a destination for pet lovers. Hotels and restaurants that choose to welcome pets may see increased footfall and bookings, as they tap into this niche market. Moreover, the presence of pets in certain areas could add to the overall atmosphere of a venue, making it more relaxed and welcoming for both human and animal guests.

While the new regulations aim to make Abu Dhabi more inclusive, they also emphasize the importance of maintaining high health and safety standards. Venues must take the necessary steps to ensure that pets do not disrupt the environment or the well-being of other guests. This could include regular cleaning, proper waste management, and ensuring that pets are kept under control at all times. Additionally, venues must provide clear guidelines for pet owners, outlining expectations for behavior and responsibility.

The move is also in line with global tourism trends that reflect a growing demand for pet-friendly travel options. Many countries, especially in Europe and North America, have long embraced the concept of pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants, and Abu Dhabi’s shift in policy positions it as an increasingly attractive destination for travelers who want to bring their pets along.

The new pet-friendly regulations in Abu Dhabi open up new possibilities for both the hospitality industry and tourists, aligning the emirate with international standards while maintaining a strong focus on health, safety, and the well-being of both pets and people. This progressive move not only enhances the emirate’s tourism offerings but also contributes to its ongoing development as a global, inclusive destination for all.