New Pet Registration Rules in Abu Dhabi: What Cat & Dog Owners Need to Know 

As of February 3, Abu Dhabi now requires all cats and dogs to be officially registered under a new initiative led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT). 

If you haven't registered your pet yet, you can still do so—the registration process remains free at the moment. 

This initiative supports longterm goals around animal welfare, safety, and responsible pet ownership across the emirate. 

Give your beloved companion the protection they deserve with MetLife Pet Insurance in the UAE!  

Why Pet Registration Matters 

If your pet is already microchipped, you’ll still need to register them through the new system to avoid potential penalties in the future. The process will be available through the TAMM portal, with registration completed at participating veterinary clinics. 

The initiative aims to build a centralised database for all pets in Abu Dhabi—strengthening health tracking, improving safety, and supporting responsible ownership. 

Here’s what the new system helps achieve: 

1. Reducing stray animal populations 
   Proper registration helps authorities better track owned pets—resulting in fewer stray animals on the streets. 
2. Tracking essential health records 
   Vaccinations, microchip IDs, medical history, and wellness checks can be managed in one unified system. 
3. Faster identification of lost pets 
   A registered pet with a documented microchip has a higher chance of being returned to its owner quickly. 
4. Better overall pet welfare
   The programme highlights the importance of annual vaccinations, routine check‑ups, and preventive care—key factors in long-term pet wellbeing. 

What Pet Owners Should Do Next 

• Visit a participating veterinary clinic to register your pet 
• Ensure your pet’s microchip number and vaccination card are up to date 
• Keep an eye on announcements through TAMM or DMT for next steps 

This is also a good time to revisit your pet’s health routines, ensure their vaccination status is current, and schedule any overdue vet appointments. 

Why Registration + Pet Insurance Matter 

While registration protects your pet in the public system, pet insurance protects them medically—and protects you financially. 

A comprehensive pet insurance plan can help cover: 

• Unexpected accident or illness expenses 
• Emergency treatments 
• Surgeries and medications 
• Diagnostics like X-rays and bloodwork 
  

Pet registration makes it easier for pets to be identified and cared for, while pet insurance gives you peace of mind during unexpected situations. 

If your pet is already family, it’s time to protect them like one. 

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