United States
1-877-Pet-Move (738-6683)
International
Relocating CAT to United Arab Emirates
What Type of Pets Do You Have?:
CAT
How was your experience finding pet care in your new country?:
This was all rather easy (vet, food, etc.). Dubai has only a couple of hotels/extended stays that allow cats. Plus, with the steady schedule of conferences, finding a room here can often be a nightmare. So, I suggest to research and book very early if you want your pet to stay with you while in temporary housing. We’ve never been comfortable boarding our cats, so we were lucky to have another company employee offer to house Taylor, our cat.
Any other suggestions?:
This was all rather easy (vet, food, etc.). Dubai has only a couple of hotels/extended stays that allow cats.
How was your pet(s) reaction to the new environment?:
We’re fortunate with Taylor. He always adapts well. Right out of the carrier he was ready to eat, drink, and explore. The second day, he was cohabitating with a strange dog.
What's your favorite local hotspot that you've discovered?:
The Montgomerie Golf Club (for golf, a meal, and socializing after the round).
What are some things you miss the most about where you came?:
We miss the Steak Houses and Barbeque Restaurants from Texas. And we miss grass (lawn grass). Other than that, you can get much of what you are accustomed to over here.
What was the best/worst part of your pet relocation?:
See the carrier issue above. Also, when Taylor arrived he smelled of urine (which was expected since he probably had to lie on the puppy pad). After the stress of flying, giving him a bath is the last thing we would do. I’m sure this has been brought up before, and safety plays a big part in it, but I’d love to see a carrier with a false bottom to allow the puppy pad to be placed below. Stability, comfort, and good drainage would take a good deal of thought though
How long do you plan to stay in your new country?:
3 years and after that, we do not know!
Any other suggestions or helpful tips for pet owners living in your new country?:
- I would advise others to try to get a local mobile phone before they arrive in the UAE. Pay-as-you-go plans are more prevalent here, so it’s easy even for visitors to buy phones. The setup process here is an absolute nightmare. Having a local phone makes things a little easier.
- This may be off target, but you also need to be cautious with your pet when delivery or maintenance people are in your residence. Communication barriers are present, and some of the local workers don’t grasp the concept of keeping the doors closed to prevent pets from getting out. Keep an eye on them or lock them up if possible (the pets, not the workers).
- If you don’t know many people here before you move, take advantage of the Duty Free shop to purchase alcohol when you arrive. Permits can take three weeks to a month. If you’re a wine lover, I’m sure it would be frustrating.
