UAE Federal Law no.16 from the year 2007 was created to protect animals from abuse and negligence. It states that inadequate diet or undernourishment, unsafe transportation, as well as other forms of mistreatment (scientific experiments, cruelty, sexual abuse) are punishable by law. Animals if required should receive medical attention. Abandonment of animals, especially if infected is also against the law.

According to the law, the owners of abandoned or neglected animals will receive written instructions about animal welfare and will be required to pledge that the negligence will never reoccur. However, if the situation continues the owner will be penalized and will be held responsible for all expenses (veterinary bills, transportation, etc). Penalty for violating animal rights includes imprisonment with a maximum duration of one year and a fine of a maximum of 20,000dhs.

Read a full version of the UAE Animal Welfare Law, here.

Read a Full version of the UAE Animal Welfare Law at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment