:Regulations and permit for animal travel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
“Many families and travelers are interested in taking their pets with them while traveling via Saudi Airlines. To ensure the safety of animals and the smoothness of the travel process, the company provides procedures and facilities related to animal travel permits and passports for cats, dogs and other pets .This comprehensive guide aims to clarify the necessary steps and regulations related to carrying animals when traveling via Saudi Airlines, including health requirements and procedures necessary for transporting dogs, cats, and other pets.”
:General instructions for animal carriers to obtain an animal travel permit
1. Size restrictions:
- The animal carrier should be wide enough so that the animal can stand, turn and lie comfortably.
- For cats and small birds in the passenger compartment, the dimensions of the carrier must not exceed 40 x 32.5 x 52.5 cm (16 x 13 x 21 inches).
- Larger dog carriers are permitted for airspace, provided they meet the necessary size requirements.
2. Ventilation:
Adequate ventilation is crucial to ensuring a continuous supply of fresh air to the animal.
-Ventilation holes must be small enough to prevent the animal from escaping.
3. Leak-proof design:
- The carrier must be leak-proof to contain any accidents that may occur during the trip.
- It is preferable to place absorbent materials inside the holder to deal with any leakage.
4. Safety measures:
- The animal carrier must be securely closed to prevent accidental opening during flight.
- Make sure the carrier provides a safe and secure environment, which reduces stress on the animal.
5. Compatibility with aircraft specifications:
- Animal carriers must comply with the aircraft specifications to fit into the designated places in the passenger cabin and the cargo hold.
- For animals transported in the cargo hold, carriers must meet certain requirements to ensure proper ventilation and safety.
6. Stand accessibility:
- The rack should allow easy access to the animal, allowing the animal handler to reach it without causing unnecessary stress.
Recommendations about animal carriers for different types for issuing an animal travel permit:
1. Kittens and birds:
- Cats and small birds are allowed to be carried in the passenger cabin if the size and ventilation requirements are matched.
- Their holders must be placed under the seat in front of the passenger.
2.Dogs:
- Dogs are usually transported in the cargo hold.
- The carrier must provide sufficient space and ventilation for the dog’s comfort.
3.Guide dogs:
- Guide dogs accompanying passengers who are blind or have hearing impairments are transported free of charge.
- The animal carrier must comply with specified dimensions and ventilation requirements.
: What is the animal travel fee if an animal travel permit is issued
Saudi Airlines charges an additional fee for transporting animals to produce an animal travel permit. The cost of the trip is calculated based on the weight of the animal and its carrier, with the maximum weight allowed for the animal being 5 kg. Fees are subject to change, and it is recommended to contact Saudi Arabian Airlines for the latest information.
Special instructions for dogs, cats and birds when obtaining an animal travel permit
The government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia allows the entry of dogs (for hunting, guarding, and guiding the blind or those with hearing disabilities), cats, and birds, provided that they possess the necessary health certificates authenticated by Saudi embassies abroad. Live animals accompanying passengers must register on the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (Nama) website online
The importance of obtaining prior approval to obtain an animal travel permit
Transporting live animals, their products, derivatives, or any other biological animal materials by air requires obtaining prior approval from the competent authority, i.e. issuing an animal travel permit, which is the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Bird entry restrictions for animal travel permit
Live birds are not allowed to be transported to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia except after obtaining the necessary permits from the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. Proof must be provided that the birds are free of infectious diseases.
Traveling by land transportation:
When traveling by car
You can also travel by car with a pet. But for this, some special matters must be taken into account. Make full arrangements to make your pet feel calm before traveling. Try to have your pet sit in the front seat and purchase a pet-specific seat belt.
Secure the pet so that it does not fall out of the seat while the vehicle is in operation. If the road is long, stop the car for a while and walk. Always keep the car window open so your pet can breathe Better, especially in hot weather
When traveling by train:
. You need to make a first class reservation on the train. The good thing is that you will also have to pay a pet fare that is less than a plane fare. The train is considered an easy means of transportation for your pet to travel. The biggest problem that you may face is the disappearance of your pet in this wide space of the train. Therefore, you must make sure to tie it to your side or place it in an animal carrier or cage. If you want to release it, you must put on a pendant or collar that tracks the animals.
From The Seventh Bird, we have allocated for you various products:
Seven Bird Dog and Cat Collar with Tracking Necklace
Seven Bird collar with bell in bright colors for dogs and cats
:Everything you need during your travel
- Pet bag
Keep pets' belongings separate from your luggage. So she can get her supplies easily if needed. Thus, you have organized your belongings into a variety of easy-to-access items. Keep your clothes and your pet’s food in your bags. And do not forget to choose the appropriate carrier and cage for your pet before traveling.
From The Seventh Bird, we have allocated for you various products:
Sevenbird Transparent Multifunctional Dog and Cat Carrier Bag
Best Inside Cat and Dog Carrier Bag 34L×26W×42H cm
Seven Bird Cat and Small Dog Carrier and Crate
Metal bird cage with two food bowls and a stand from Seven Bird
- You won't get the same food you're used to giving your pet outside. So keep some food ready for your pets
From The Seventh Bird, we have allocated for you various products:
Hamy Yummy Wet Food for Kittens with Chicken and Turkey Chunks with Carrots in Gravy 400g
Wanpy Dog Wet Food with Lamb, Carrots and Peas 90g
Harrison's High Potency Parrot & Bird Food 454g
- Make sure to pack some fun toys for your pet wherever you're going to ensure they stay fully active and entertained on your travels.
From The Seventh Bird, we have allocated for you various products:
Trixie Cat Fishing Stimulation Game
There are some additional tips to help you and your pet feel comfortable while traveling
- You cannot take sick pets and pregnant women on board.
- Your pet must be at least eight weeks old (and on some international flights even longer) and fully weaned before travel.
- The weight of the pet must not exceed 8 kg in case you wish to take it with you in the cabin
- A large and convenient carrier for your pet that can allow him to stand, lie down and move around.
Choose a non-stop flight.
- Avoid extreme heat and cold, so planning to arrive at night to a hot destination will be better for your friend.
- Take a long walk before traveling and play with your pet.
- If your pet is accepted into the cabin, it is best to board as late as possible.