Official Import Rules
Saudi Arabia requires an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 21 days and not more than 12 months old), FAVN rabies titer test (≥0. 5 IU/ml), and a government-endorsed veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
An import permit from MEWA (Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture) must be obtained before travel — apply online. All documents require authentication by the Saudi embassy/consulate in the origin country.
Arrival through Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), or Dammam (DMM) airports.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel)
Rabies titer test (≥0.5 IU/ml)
Apply for import permit through MEWA
Health certificate within 10 days of travel
Government endorsement of health certificate
Arrive at Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), or Dammam (DMM)
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None if documentation complete
City & Housing Tips
Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have good vet care with many expat-oriented clinics. Pet ownership is growing rapidly in Saudi Arabia. Many modern compounds and apartments welcome cats. Indoor cats recommended due to extreme heat.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care in major cities, with several international-standard clinics. 24-hour emergency services available in Riyadh and Jeddah. Summer heat is extreme — cats should be indoor-only with AC. Flea and tick prevention essential year-round.
Find Vets in Saudi ArabiaExit Rules — Leaving Saudi Arabia
Exit requires a health certificate from a MEWA-approved vet and an export permit. Processing takes 5–7 working days. Documents may require additional embassy authentication depending on the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Increasingly yes. Cats hold a special place in Islamic culture, and pet ownership is booming in the Kingdom. Many modern homes and compounds welcome cats.
Cats must be kept indoors with air conditioning during summer when temperatures exceed 45°C. All modern Saudi homes have AC. Indoor cats thrive.
Most Gulf carriers (Saudia, Emirates, Etihad) transport pets as cargo only, not in the cabin. Check directly with your airline.
Community Tips
The rabies titer test for Saudi Arabia takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Have you moved to Saudi Arabia with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.