22 Apr
If you have ever hit the road with a pang of guilt for leaving your four-legged friend behind, the UAE now has the perfect solution: paw-cations. Across this sun-drenched stretch of the Gulf, a growing list of hotels and resorts are making it easier than ever to bring your pet along for the ride.
The region’s transformation into a pet-friendly playground is no longer a fringe movement, it is now mainstream. From Abu Dhabi’s quiet elegance to Dubai’s cosmopolitan buzz and Ras Al Khaimah’s rustic charm, the Emirates are rolling out the welcome mat for fur-covered guests. Hotels are not just accommodating pets anymore; they are catering to them with curated experiences, gourmet treats, and even beachfront dog bars.
Hotels across the UAE are tapping into the pet-loving travel segment with real flair. We're talking plush pet beds, eco-friendly bowls, welcome toys, and leash-on access to everything from terraces to dog-friendly beaches. Most places maintain simple ground rules; pets must be leashed in public spaces, some charge a fee or deposit, and weight or breed restrictions may apply, but the message is clear. Pets are now a priority, not an afterthought.
Some properties, like JA Hatta Fort Hotel or Banan Beach, go even further by embracing a /laid-back, all-paws-welcome approach with minimal restrictions and open spaces to roam. Others take luxury to the next level with tailored packages and elevated service like custom menus for canines and dedicated play zones.
Bold, vibrant, and perched on Jumeirah Beach, this hotel is a glam getaway for both pets and
their humans. With beachfront views, outdoor lounging areas, and personalized pet service, it is indulgence with
inclusivity.
A city stay with a community vibe. Dogs of all sizes are welcome (cats, sadly, sit this one
out), and with access to park areas and pet-welcoming eateries like Social Company and Lah Lah, it’s perfect
for urban pups.
Eco-conscious and artsy, this spot delivers thoughtful touches like toys, treats, and terrace
breakfasts at Open Sesame. Expect a nightly pet fee of Dhs200.
Pets under 10 kg are welcomed with open arms and plush amenities. For a fee of Dhs150 plus
Dhs50 per day, enjoy pet-friendly rooms in one of Dubai’s most scenic waterfront areas.
Located on Palm West Beach, this modern resort allows one pet per stay (10 kg max), with a
deposit and fee. Pool and beach zones are off-limits, but comfort and convenience remain high.
This luxury retreat turns pet travel into high art. With Zenzi Beach access, gourmet pet menus,
and chic in-room amenities, it is a pet vacation wrapped in five-star flair.
Tucked into the Hajar Mountains, this chalet-style hideaway is ideal for a peaceful
nature-filled escape. Dogs can roam freely, and nature trails offer a dose of scenic adventure.
Dog beach. Dog bar. Garden-view rooms. Enough said. This Hilton property is the blueprint for
laid-back luxury with pets, accommodating two dogs under 25 kg.
Boho tents, beach bonfires, and a fully pet-welcoming atmosphere? Count us in. This glamping resort offers barefoot vibes and tail-wagging freedom on Marjan Island.
As the UAE redefines what it means to travel with pets, these accommodations reflect a broader shift; one that values connection, companionship, and shared experiences. Whether it is a quiet hike in Hatta, a glam weekend in Dubai, or a beachy escape in Ras Al Khaimah, the Emirates are making it easier than ever to enjoy a pet-inclusive vacation. All that is left to do is pack the leash, grab the treats, and let your next vacation be one your pet remembers too.
AUTHOR’S BIO
ARSH BHARDWAJ
I am passionate about language, storytelling and the human urge to connect Having paid close attention to marketing and branding as a craft for some time, I'm eager as ever to indulge my passion for prose.