Finding a home in a new country can be a daunting task. But for expats with pets, the process can be even more difficult and sometimes downright overwhelming.
But in the UAE, the situation is a little better. The country offers modern living, world-class amenities, and a growing lifestyle for expats.
Keep in mind that not every building or landlord is welcoming to tenants with pets. From unclear building codes to breed restrictions and additional fees, many pet owners face unexpected obstacles when searching for the right home.
But the good news is that renting with pets in the UAE is possible when you know which platform to search on. Some cities, neighborhoods, and property types are much more welcoming to pets than others, and understanding these patterns can save you time, money, and stress.
We aim to be there for you in this guide, helping you, expats and long-time residents of Dubai, navigate the market with confidence and avoid common mistakes. With a little effort and care, you can find pet-friendly apartments in the UAE. That way, your home will suit both your lifestyle and your little furry friends.
Why Finding Pet Friendly Apartments in the UAE Can Be Challenging
Finding pet friendly housing in the UAE can be more complicated than many expats expect. Well, there are various challenges along the way, but the main ones usually stem from building-level regulations, landlord preferences, and inconsistent enforcement of pet policies.
Building Rules and Landlord Restrictions
In many UAE communities, homeowners’ associations (HOA) set the rules. So it’s not just landlords who do it individually. Even if the landlord verbally agrees to pets, the building management may prohibit them altogether or place restrictions on certain types of animals.
This is why it’s so important to have written permission in your rental agreement. Verbal approvals are common but can get you into trouble and management may even object later. They are not legally enforceable.
Breed and Size Limitations
Another major obstacle is breed and size restrictions, especially for dogs. Certain breeds that are large and aggressive are often prohibited from entering homes and living there, and many buildings do not allow small or medium-sized pets. Some properties also limit the number of pets per unit, regardless of size, which can be a problem for families with more than one animal.
Additional Deposits and Fees
Even when pets are allowed, tenants may face additional fees. These fees can include refundable pet deposits (usually AED 1,000 to AED 3,000) or non-refundable cleaning and maintenance fees.
So make sure to check first if the fees are refundable or not. This will help you understand under what circumstances you can avoid settling disputes when you move out. It will also help you budget more accurately and better.
UAE Cities With the Most Pet Friendly Apartments
When it comes to pet friendly apartments in the UAE, it’s important to note that not all cities in the UAE offer the same level of flexibility.
Upon closer inspection, we find that Dubai and Abu Dhabi are more flexible when it comes to pet friendly apartments. Let’s explore more.
Dubai
Dubai offers the widest range of pet friendly apartments in the UAE, and most applicants are usually expats.
Neighborhoods like JVC, Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai (select buildings), and parts of Jumeirah are more pet friendly. However, you should be aware that policies are usually building-specific, not an area of Dubai.
Many towers allow pets, but have restrictions on size, leash rules, and more. Remember, written approval is almost always required.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a bit more conservative than Dubai, but still offers some great options for pet friendly apartments in the UAE. Especially in areas like Yas Island, Al Reem Island, and Saadiyat Island.
Regulations in Abu Dhabi are generally stricter, with a greater emphasis on social norms and family life. When comparing Abu Dhabi to Dubai, fewer high-rise buildings allow dogs, but those that do often offer better access to outdoor spaces.
Sharjah and Other Emirates
Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah are good areas to find more affordable rentals in Dubai. However, pet friendly listings are less common.
If you’re one of the renters choosing Sharjah and Other Emirates to live in, you can expect stricter enforcement, less pet-focused amenities, and limited flexibility. Please note that prior confirmation of your pets’ arrival will be necessary before signing any contract.
Best Areas for Pet Friendly Living in the UAE
The best areas for pet friendly apartments in the UAE usually have flexible building policies, allowing you to walk your pet in walkable areas, have easy access to open spaces, and make the most of veterinary services.
Now, let’s take a look at some of the top places that are consistently popular with pet-owning expats in Dubai.
Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC)
JVC is widely considered to have the most pet-friendly apartments in the UAE.
The low-rise buildings in this neighborhood of Dubai and the residential layout make it a more pleasant place to live.
This makes it easier for you to take your pet for a daily walk. Many landlords in this area are used to tenants with pets. However, one thing to note is that pet policies vary from building to building, but small to medium-sized pets are generally accepted.
The area also has veterinary clinics, pet stores, and numerous open green spaces, making it a practical choice for long-term pet owners.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is a favorite among expats. This area of Dubai is truly unique and charming, popular for its beachside lifestyle and walking trails, which are ideal for dog owners.
Fortunately, many towers allow pets, but the rules vary considerably from building to building.
Some buildings do impose restrictions on the size of the animals, but the main advantage here is convenience. Veterinarians, grooming services, and pet-friendly cafes are all available, so you won’t have to worry about this.
Business Bay
Business Bay is perfect for pet owners who prefer a more urban and central lifestyle. The area is generally well-maintained with high-end buildings. However, be aware that some modern buildings have strict guidelines for pets. There are also good walking trails in the area.
Yas Island
Most people who love Abu Dhabi love Yas Island. On Yas Island you can provide a good life for your pets. Here you will have good access to family-friendly surroundings, beaches, parks and wide walkways. That means you will have everything that is ideal for pets. The townhouses and low-rise apartments here are especially suitable for larger dogs and certain breeds.
What to Check Before Renting a Pet-Friendly Apartment
Before signing a lease, pet owners should carefully consider a few important points when choosing pet-friendly apartments in UAE to avoid future disputes or unexpected expenses. Ignoring these checks is one of the most common mistakes that tenants in the UAE make, and the clearer the terms, the easier it will be to choose the right home.
First, always make sure that the written permission to keep pets is clearly stated in the rental agreement.
Simply relying on verbal assurances from real estate agents or landlords can land you in a lot of trouble in the future. The contract should specify whether pets are allowed or not, and any restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets should be mentioned in your contract. Without this clause, the building management could later challenge your right to keep a pet, so keep these important points in mind when searching for pet-friendly apartments in UAE.
Next, confirm the pet deposit and refund terms. Ask if the deposit is refundable. Also ask under what circumstances it will be deducted and whether a professional cleaning is required upon vacating.
Remember, being clear about the terms at every stage of the contract will help prevent disputes after the lease ends.
Finally, evaluate the building’s amenities and surrounding green spaces. Check for elevators that are pet-friendly, as well as designated walking areas. It’s also important to take the time to check out nearby parks and access to veterinary clinics. These factors directly impact the day-to-day comfort and long-term well-being of both you and your pet.
Pet-Friendly Apartment Types in the UAE
When we look at different sources, we find that policies regarding pet-friendly apartments in the UAE can vary significantly depending on the type of property.
Studio apartments are often the most affordable option and can be a great option for owners of cats or small dogs.
Their main advantage is lower rent and easier approval in certain buildings. However, it is important to note that these places have limited space and can be challenging for some pets.
Some landlords may be hesitant about allowing dogs in very compact units.
One-bedroom and family apartments, however, have a different set of requirements. They usually offer a better balance of space and comfort. These units are more suitable for tenants with pets, especially if the apartment has a balcony or is in a low-traffic building. In general, one-bedroom and family apartments are ideal for medium-sized pets and long-term stays.
When comparing townhouses versus apartments, townhouses typically offer more space for tenants, less noise is transmitted to neighbors, and easier access to the outdoors. These amenities will be more ideal for larger dogs. Apartments, although located in the city center, often have stricter building codes and their common spaces require stricter compliance.
How to Filter and Search for Pet-Friendly Rentals
Well, expecting to find pet-friendly apartments in UAE is a bit unrealistic. You need a strategy, and through rental platforms, you can significantly improve your chances of success.
Rental platforms help you to easily choose the pet-friendly apartments in UAE you want.
Most major portals allow filters like “pets allowed” or “pet-friendly”, but these labels are not always accurate, so read the listing description carefully and make sure to go into more detail. Saving searches and setting alerts can also help you act quickly when suitable listings appear and book a home that matches your requirements.
It is better to use specific keywords in your listings. Phrases like “pets allowed”, “pet-friendly building” or “small pets only” often show more accurate results than filters alone.
Finally, when contacting agents or landlords, ask smart, direct questions. It’s important to get pet approval from the landlord or building management. So ask about size or breed restrictions, and ask about how rent will be paid. These initial conversations are crucial because they help avoid wasting time viewing the property and ensure that the property truly fits your needs.
Hidden Costs of Pet-Friendly Apartments
While finding pet-friendly apartments in the UAE is a win-win, many renters underestimate the hidden costs that may come with it. It’s really important to be aware of this, and if you’re not prepared, these extra costs can significantly impact your overall rental budget.
One common expense is professional cleaning fees. Some landlords require a deep cleaning or pest control upon vacating if you have pets, and this is the tenant’s responsibility. These fees may be non-refundable and will be charged regardless of the condition of the apartment, so it’s important to clarify this upfront to avoid any issues with your landlord.
Read the maintenance clauses carefully. Another key thing to check is this. Many rental agreements will state what you’ll need to pay for scratches, odors, or excessive wear and tear. In some cases, landlords will impose stricter damage requirements on tenants with pets, which can affect the refund of the deposit.
You should also be fully aware of the costs associated with insurance. Although not always mandatory, some landlords or buildings recommend liability insurance for dog owners, especially for larger breeds.
It is important to pay for insurance because it can protect you from unexpected disputes or claims.
Tips to Get Approved Faster With Pets
It is important to get a permit for renting with pets, and in this section, we will explain why.
Tenants who are proactive in handling pet issues are more likely to get a permit quickly.
An effective strategy for getting a permit is to prepare a resume for your pets. This resume should include vaccination records, municipal registration, training certificates, and a brief description of your pet’s size, age, and behavior.
Providing these in advance will reassure landlords and building management that your pet will be well cared for and unlikely to cause any problems. So, by following these steps, finding pet-friendly apartments in the UAE will be less of a challenge.
Having strong negotiation strategies will also help a lot. For example, if you can pay a slightly higher refundable deposit, agree to professional cleaning upon vacating, or commit to a longer lease, landlords will usually be more flexible. Collecting and earning these points is often less expensive than losing a good apartment, so try to create these.
All your efforts should be directed towards finding suitable buildings. Instead of trying to convince landlords with restrictive buildings, focus on finding pet-friendly apartments in UAE and target complexes and towers that are already known for accepting pets.
In such a situation, saving time, reducing application rejections and speeding up the approval process becomes significantly better.
Final Tips for Stress-Free Pet-Friendly Renting in the UAE
A quick checklist can make a big difference in finding pet-friendly apartments in the UAE. Keep the following points in mind:
- Confirm written pet permission in the contract
- Confirm deposit and cleaning requirements
- Review building codes
- Assess nearby parks
- Access to veterinary care
Top tips to avoid common mistakes
- Don’t rely on verbal confirmation
- Not all buildings in the same area have the same pet policy
- Consider long-term costs
- Don’t ignore maintenance or cleaning clauses.
For long-term planning, look to choose communities in Dubai that are pet-friendly. Think ahead about space, walkability, and access to pet services as you change your lifestyle.
With the right preparation, finding pet-friendly apartments in the UAE can be smooth and satisfying. If you’re ready to take the next step, check out verified listings on Homebook or ask our experts questions to find a home that’s right for both you and your pet.
