In a significant policy shift, Abu Dhabi has officially amended its municipal regulations to permit companion animals in designated hospitality venues across the emirate. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announced the regulatory changes on December 25, 2025, marking a departure from previous restrictions that exclusively allowed certified service animals in food establishments.
The amendments to Chairman’s Decision No. (4) of 2018, established under Law No. (2) of 2012, specifically enable hotels and restaurants holding tourism licenses to welcome pets alongside their owners. The revised legislation defines companion animals as domesticated pets that typically accompany owners outside residential settings, primarily encompassing cats and dogs.
Under the new framework, participating establishments must implement specific zoning arrangements to accommodate animal companions. The regulations mandate designated pet-friendly areas, preferably in open-air environments such as outdoor terraces or balcony sections. For indoor accommodations, venues are required to create appropriately enclosed zones that comply with established health and safety protocols while ensuring animal welfare standards.
The regulatory update emphasizes the importance of maintaining equilibrium between pet owners’ privileges and general public comfort. Establishments choosing to implement pet-friendly policies must ensure that their animal accommodation provisions do not compromise overall hygiene standards or disrupt the dining experience of other patrons. This balanced approach aims to foster a harmonious environment for all guests while progressively expanding pet accessibility in the emirate’s hospitality sector.
The policy revision reflects Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to modernize urban regulations in line with evolving societal trends and international best practices regarding animal companionship in public spaces.