Why Every Pet in Abu Dhabi Needs a Microchip — And How to Get One

If you live in Abu Dhabi with a dog or cat, microchipping is not optional — it is a legal requirement under UAE federal law. But beyond compliance, a microchip is one of the most important things you can do to protect your pet. This guide explains everything you need to know: what a microchip is, why the UAE requires it, how the procedure works, and how to get your pet chipped at Pawspact.

What Is a Pet Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny electronic device — roughly the size of a grain of rice — that is implanted just beneath your pet's skin, typically between the shoulder blades. Each chip carries a unique 15-digit ISO code that is registered in a national or international database alongside your contact details. When a lost pet is found and scanned at a vet clinic, shelter, or animal control facility, that code identifies the owner immediately.

Unlike a collar or tag, a microchip cannot fall off, be removed, or fade over time. It is a permanent form of identification that lasts the lifetime of your pet.

Is Microchipping Mandatory in the UAE?

Yes. Under UAE Federal Law No. 18 of 1993 and subsequent MOCCAE (Ministry of Climate Change and Environment) regulations, all dogs and cats kept as pets must be microchipped and registered. Abu Dhabi Municipality enforces this requirement, and failure to comply can result in fines.

Beyond the legal obligation, microchipping is required for several key activities:

• Obtaining or renewing your pet's Abu Dhabi licence
• International pet travel and export documentation
• Claiming a lost pet from a shelter or municipality
• Registering with a veterinary clinic for ongoing care

How Does the Microchipping Procedure Work?

The procedure is quick, safe, and causes minimal discomfort — comparable to a routine vaccination. Here is what to expect at Pawspact:

1. Consultation: Your veterinarian confirms your pet is healthy and reviews any existing identification records.
2. Implantation: The microchip is inserted using a sterile needle under the skin between the shoulder blades. No anaesthetic is required. The entire process takes under 30 seconds.
3. Scanning: The chip is immediately scanned to confirm it is reading correctly and that the unique code is active.
4. Registration: Your details — name, phone number, address — are linked to the chip's code in the UAE's pet registration database.
5. Documentation: You receive a certificate confirming the microchip number, which you will need for licensing and travel.

Is It Safe? Are There Side Effects?

Microchipping is one of the safest veterinary procedures available. Serious complications are extremely rare. Some pets experience minor, temporary tenderness at the injection site for a day or two, but the vast majority show no reaction at all.

When Should I Microchip My Pet?

The earlier, the better. Puppies and kittens can be microchipped from 8 weeks of age, and we recommend doing it at the same time as their first vaccination visit. For adult pets that have not yet been chipped, there is no age limit — it can be done at any routine appointment.

If you have recently moved to Abu Dhabi with a pet that was microchipped in another country, bring their existing chip documentation. We can scan the chip to confirm it is ISO 11784/11785 compliant and help you register it in the UAE system.

Microchipping at Pawspact Abu Dhabi

At Pawspact, microchipping is available every day from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (until 11:00 PM Thursday through Sunday). We use ISO-standard chips and handle the registration process for you — so you leave with everything you need for licensing and travel documentation.

Same-day appointments are available. Call us at 02 622 7260 or book online through Digitail.