The grace period for registering cats and dogs in Abu Dhabi officially ended on February 3, 2026, marking the start of mandatory enforcement for pet owners. Introduced by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), this initiative aims to create a comprehensive database that links pets to their owners via microchips and medical records. By formalizing these details, the government intends to improve the planning of veterinary services, streamline vaccination tracking, and expedite the process of reuniting lost pets with their families. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance animal welfare and manage the stray population more effectively across the emirate.

Individual pet owners can register their animals free of charge by visiting any licensed veterinary clinic. During the visit, a vet will verify or implant a microchip, perform a health check, and submit the necessary details through the TAMM platform using the owner's Emirates ID and UAE Pass. It is important to note that failing to comply with these regulations now carries a penalty of Dh1,000 per animal. Furthermore, the authorities remain strict on broader animal welfare standards, with additional fines of up to Dh2,000 for abandonment and Dh5,000 for neglect, underscoring the legal responsibility that comes with pet ownership in Abu Dhabi.