Mandatory Pet Registration Begins in Abu Dhabi

Mandatory Pet Registration in Abu Dhabi: Fines Begin on February 3

Abu Dhabi is entering a new era in responsible pet ownership: from February 3, 2026, registration of all dogs and cats will become mandatory within the emirate. Anyone failing to comply with this requirement could face a fine of up to 1,000 dirhams. The goal is clear: Abu Dhabi Municipality aims to establish a well-organized, transparent, and humane pet ownership system, where every pet is registered, identifiable, and protected.

Why has registration become mandatory?

Registering animals is not just a matter of administration but part of community life and public safety. Abu Dhabi's city administration is creating a central database through the TAMM platform, containing the data of owners and their animals, including microchip information. This system will make it easier to identify lost animals, track diseases, and reduce the number of stray animals.

Furthermore, registration allows for the official inclusion of pets in the so-called "Family Space" system, which aims to make the pet ownership structure transparent and strengthens the role of pets within the family.

End of the grace period

Individuals have been given a 12-month grace period to register their pets, but this ends on February 3. After this date, anyone without a valid registration can expect a 1,000 dirham fine. Those with existing registrations who fail to renew on time will also face fines – in this case, 500 dirhams.

Interestingly, institutions and companies that own dogs or cats were given only a 6-month deadline for registration – meaning the compliance rules were even stricter for them.

How does registration take place?

The registration process can be fully completed digitally through the TAMM platform. Owners must log in using the UAE Pass and apply for pet registration by uploading the required documents.

Required documents:

microchip data,

veterinary health report,

commercial license (only for institutions),

reference identifier (occasionally).

If the animal meets all conditions – being over 12 weeks old and having all necessary vaccinations – it will receive an "animal registration certificate." This document is valid for one year and aligns with the validity period of vaccinations.

If the pet has not yet reached 12 weeks, only a provisional "animal personal file" will be prepared, which later becomes a full registration once the age and vaccinations are in order.

Why is all this important?

The measure aims to be felt on multiple levels in Abu Dhabi's daily life. On the one hand, it helps reduce the number of stray animals, and on the other, it strengthens animal protection, which is a priority under UAE law. For example, those who abandon their pet can expect a 2,000 dirham fine. Anyone who abuses or neglects an animal can face penalties up to 5,000 dirhams under Article 471 of the UAE Penal Code.

Advantages of the TAMM system

Over recent years, the TAMM platform has become one of the most reliable public service systems in the emirate. It offers unified access for citizens and residents to various processes – from address changes to vehicle administration to pet ownership permits. The pet registration service operates as part of this system, offering a fast, efficient, and paperless process through digital solutions.

Responsible pet ownership in Abu Dhabi

With mandatory registration, not only are the rules enforced on pet owners, but it also encourages the development of a conscious, community-focused mindset. A pet is not a toy, not merely a decoration but a sentient being for which we bear responsibility – this is the message the new regulation sends to every resident.

These types of digital registries contribute to making the emirate an even safer and more livable place – not only for people but also for pets.

Summary

As of February 3, every dog and cat in Abu Dhabi must have official registration. Registration through the TAMM platform is free and helps protect animals while providing a transparent system for pet owners. Failure to do so can result in heavy fines. The system is a step towards a future where pet ownership is not only a right but a serious responsibility – Abu Dhabi sets an example for the entire region.

img_alt: Cat resting on a cat tower.