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You Can Take Your Furry Friends For A Meal As Abu Dhabi Restaurants Now Welcome Pets

Hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses across Abu Dhabi can now welcome your fur babies.

by Anupriya Mishra
You Can Take Your Furry Friends For A Meal As Abu Dhabi Restaurants Now Welcome Pets

Have you also had to leave your fur baby behind while visiting a new hotel or restaurant in town? And the accompanying guilt is so severe that you don’t feel like planning a vacation or even a meal without them. But what if we tell you that now you will be able to do all of this and more with your little furry friends? Well, that’s true! After all, hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses across Abu Dhabi can now welcome your fur babies.

New Rule For Pet At Hotels & Restaurants

As revealed in a report of the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the Department of Municipalities and Transport has announced an amendment to Chairman’s Decision No. (4) of 2018. This was issued under the Law No. (2) of 2012, and it governs public health, safety, and animal control. So, basically, under the new rule, hotels and restaurants with tourism licenses across Abu Dhabi can now welcome your buddies. Yes, the establishment can admit companions like cats and dogs. However, they have to meet a specific regulatory operational requirement.

Venues Must Have Designated Areas For Pets

These venues should have designated areas for pets. They must have priority given to outdoor spaces, like terraces, balconies, and patios. Indoor areas may also be allocated; however, health standards, guest comfort, and animal welfare must be maintained. With the aim of supporting the emirates’ goal of being a leading global destination and contributing to its strongest performance in international rankings, it showcases Abu Dhabi’s focus on inclusivity.

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Previously, They Were Mostly Prohibited

It should be noted that previously pets were mostly prohibited in restaurants, with there being exception of certified service animals. Under the new framework, flexibility for venues is offered, so that it becomes pet-friendly while also making sure that public health and safety are maintained. Not only this, but operators also get to decide whether to welcome pets based on the facilities, clientele and operational capacity.

So this means that now if you happen to be a pet parent, and you are thinking of stepping out, some restaurants and hotels will be able to welcome your beloved fur baby as well.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Mahmoud Ghazal from Getty Images Pro & Damedeeso (Images are for representative purposes only)

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First Published: December 26, 2025 1:46 PM