Abu Dhabi is pet-friendly, but not careless. You can own pets here — legally, safely, and comfortably — if you understand the rules, the real costs, and where to buy from certified, approved pet shops.

This guide is verified, research-backed, and practical. No myths. No Instagram fantasy. Just facts that protect your money, your pet, and your residency.

🧠 First — What Pets Are LEGALLY Allowed in Pet Shops in Abu Dhabi?

Let’s kill the confusion immediately.

✅ Allowed Pets on Pet Shops in Abu Dhabi (Legal & Common)

✔ Cats
✔ Dogs (approved breeds only)
✔ Birds (parrots, budgies, canaries)
✔ Fish (freshwater & saltwater)
✔ Rabbits
✔ Hamsters & guinea pigs
✔ Turtles (small, non-endangered species)

🚫 Banned or Restricted Pets (Do NOT Risk It)

❌ Wild animals (monkeys, foxes, raccoons)
❌ Dangerous reptiles (snakes, crocodiles, large lizards)
❌ Exotic endangered species
❌ Aggressive dog breeds (restricted list enforced)

⚠ Owning banned animals can result in heavy fines, confiscation, and legal action. No exceptions.

🐕 Dog Ownership in Abu Dhabi — Reality Check

Dogs are allowed, but:
✔ Must be registered
✔ Must be microchipped
✔ Must be vaccinated
✔ Must follow municipality breed rules

Some breeds are restricted or banned — don’t “assume” your dog is fine. Always verify officially.

🐾 Best Pet Shops in Abu Dhabi (Trusted & Certified)

Below are well-known, licensed pet stores residents actually use — not shady sellers.

🏪 The Pet Shop Abu Dhabi

📍 Locations: Khalidiya, Al Raha, Yas Island
🐶 Pets: Cats, dogs (limited), birds, fish
💰 Prices (approx):

• Cats: AED 1,500 – 4,000
• Dogs: AED 3,000 – 12,000
• Fish: AED 20 – 800

✔ Trusted chain
✔ Vet-approved suppliers
✔ Accessories, food, grooming

🏪 Pets Delight

📍 Location: Multiple UAE branches (delivery to Abu Dhabi)
🐾 Focus: Accessories, food, grooming products
💰 Prices:

• Pet food: AED 80 – 400/month
• Beds & toys: AED 50 – 600

✔ Official supplier
✔ Good value for long-term owners

🏪 German Pet Corner

📍 Location: Mussafah
🐕 Focus: Dogs, cats, premium breeds
💰 Prices:

• Dogs: AED 4,000 – 15,000
• Cats: AED 2,000 – 6,000

⚠ Premium pricing — quality focused
✔ Health documentation provided

🏪 Animalia Pet Store

📍 Location: Al Bateen
🐾 Focus: Exotic birds, fish, small mammals
💰 Prices:

• Birds: AED 300 – 5,000
• Aquariums: AED 500 – 10,000+

✔ Good for bird & aquarium lovers
✔ Knowledgeable staff

🏪 Adoption Centers (Strongly Recommended)

📍 Multiple rescue groups & shelters
💰 Cost: Often FREE or minimal adoption fees

✔ Ethical
✔ Vaccinated
✔ Saves lives
✔ Lower cost

This is the smart choice, not the flashy one.

💸 Real Cost of Owning a Pet in Abu Dhabi from Pet Shops in Abu Dhabi (Monthly)

Let’s talk money — honestly.

🐱 Cat (Monthly)

• Food & litter: AED 150 – 300
• Vet fund: AED 50 – 100
• Grooming (optional): AED 50 – 150
  ➡ Total: AED 250 – 500/month

🐶 Dog (Monthly)

• Food: AED 250 – 600
• Vet & vaccines: AED 100 – 200
• Grooming/walking: AED 150 – 400
  ➡ Total: AED 500 – 1,200/month

🐦 Birds / Fish

• Maintenance: AED 50 – 300/month

Cheap upfront — still responsibility.

🏥 Veterinary Care — What to Expect

✔ Vet visit: AED 200 – 400
✔ Vaccination: AED 150 – 350
✔ Emergency care: AED 800+

Pet insurance exists but is limited — most owners pay out-of-pocket.

🧠 Insider Tips Most People Learn Too Late

💡 Ask for health certificates — always
💡 Avoid street sellers — illegal & risky
💡 Choose pet-friendly buildings
💡 Budget long-term, not just purchase day
💡 Adoption beats impulse buying

A pet is not decoration. Abu Dhabi authorities take animal welfare seriously

🏁 Final Verdict — Is Abu Dhabi Good for Pet Owners?

Yes — if you’re responsible.

Abu Dhabi offers:
✔ High-quality Pet Shops in Abu Dhabi
✔ Excellent veterinary care
✔ Clear laws
✔ Safe environment

But this city punishes ignorance. Follow the rules, buy from certified shops, and budget realistically.

Do it right — and your pet will thrive 🐾✨