Abu Dhabi Mandates Pet Registration via TAMM

Abu Dhabi: Mandatory Pet Registration via TAMM App - A Change for Responsible Ownership

Abu Dhabi has introduced a new regulation concerning pet ownership, requiring the registration of dogs and cats through the TAMM application starting February 3. Those who fail to register may face fines of up to 1,000 dirhams. The measure aims to curb animal abandonment, improve public health, and promote responsible pet ownership, although public reactions are mixed.

Conscious Owners Welcome the Regulation

Many people welcome the decision, as they believe it will strengthen pet owners' responsibility and contribute to the well-being of pets. Registration through the TAMM system is relatively simple: an Emirates ID and a copy of the Tawtheeq lease agreement are required. Some veterinary clinics also assist with the registration process to ensure it goes smoothly.

Such a level of record-keeping helps authorities track stray or abandoned animals more easily and ensures that the animals’ medical care - vaccinations, microchips, emergency interventions - is clearly documented. While microchipping was already mandatory, the new system clearly links identification and contact information with the animal, enabling more comprehensive tracking.

The Other Side: Skeptical and Underinformed Residents

However, numerous questions and concerns have arisen among the public. Many have not heard of the regulation, and others question how authorities will effectively enforce it to identify unregistered animals. For pets kept indoors, for example, it's hard to imagine how the lack of registration would be detected, unless veterinary services, community reports, or even direct inspections are linked to the system.

Many worry that this regulation will only apply to compliant residents, while others may evade it. There is particular concern among those who have been keeping dogs or cats for years and find it difficult to navigate the new digital regulation. The use of the TAMM system - especially for older or less technologically savvy individuals - might be an additional barrier to compliance.

Public Health and Cleanliness

Among the supporters of the decree, many highlight the improvement of urban cleanliness. It is a common complaint among dog owners that many do not pick up their pet's waste during walks, leading to significant hygiene issues. With mandatory registration, city management hopes that pet ownership will become more disciplined, and those who violate the rules can expect to be fined.

Beyond public health considerations, the regulation could also contribute to fewer abandoned animals on the streets in the long run. The obligation to register and the associated financial responsibility may act as a deterrent to those who previously might have easily discarded an unwanted pet.

How Does the System Work?

During registration via the TAMM app, owners must provide basic information about the pet - such as species, name, age, microchip number - and attach certain supporting documents. Registration is free, but related veterinary costs - such as chipping, vaccinations - may incur charges.

The advantage of the system is that it is digitally accessible at any time, and city offices can easily verify the status of registered pets. The information helps identify dangerous or sick animals, and authorities can more readily contact owners if needed.

What to Expect in the Coming Months?

As the February 3 deadline approaches, authorities are likely to actively provide further information to enable as many people as possible to fulfill their obligations. The key to implementing the regulation lies in communication, ensuring digital accessibility, and collaborating with veterinary services. It is important for registration to appear not just as a punitive measure but as a tool for improving urban quality of life, enhancing animal well-being, and encouraging owner responsibility.

The coming months will reveal how effective the registration requirement is in enhancing pet ownership culture in Abu Dhabi. It is certain that this step can be a milestone in the region's animal protection policy and may even set an example for other emirates, including Dubai, where similar issues also exist.

Summary

The compulsory pet registration introduced by Abu Dhabi marks an important step towards responsible pet ownership, animal protection, and city hygiene. While many support it, others remain unsure or unaware of it. The key to success will be transparent communication, easily accessible digital services, and coordinated practical execution - and, of course, the willingness of pet owners to cooperate.