Pet-Friendly Living in Kuwait: A Complete Guide for Expats with Pets

Living in Kuwait is a wonderful experience, but for expats who own pets, it can come with a few challenges—especially when renting a home. Many newcomers search for pet-friendly apartments in Kuwait, only to discover that not all buildings welcome pets. As a trusted name in the Kuwait real estate market, Q8REALTOR regularly assists residents looking for rental properties that accommodate their furry companions. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about moving to Kuwait with pets, rules, and how to find a pet-friendly home.

1. TRAVELING WITH YOUR PETS TO KUWAIT

Bringing a pet into Kuwait requires following specific government procedures. This is especially important for expats relocating to work and live in areas like Salmiya, Mahboula, Jabriya, and other residential hubs.

To bring a pet to Kuwait, you must:

• Have a Microchip

  Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip for identification.

• Rabies Vaccination

  Your pets must be fully vaccinated against rabies and other necessary medical requirements.

• Health Certificate

  A certified vet must issue a valid health certificate within 10 days of travel.

• Import Permit

  You must obtain an import permit from Kuwait’s Ministry of Agriculture / PAAF. This is required before entering the country.

• Pet Passport / Health Card

  A complete vaccination record must be included.

• IATA-Approved Travel Crate

  Airlines require pets to travel in crates that meet IATA standards—large enough to stand, turn, and lie down.

• Pet-Friendly Airlines

  Most airlines operating to Kuwait have clear policies for pet travel. Some allow small pets in the cabin, while others only accept pets in the cargo hold. Always notify the airline in advance, especially if the pet is traveling in cargo, and confirm whether they need to check the import permit before boarding. Upon arrival in Kuwait, keep all original documents ready for PAAF officials.

2. FINDING PET-FRIENDLY APARTMENTS IN KUWAIT

One of the most common concerns for expats searching for rental apartments in Kuwait is whether the building allows pets. Many landlords include a “no pets” clause in rental agreements, which can make the search more challenging.

Why Some Landlords Refuse Pets:

• Concerns over property damage

• Noise complaints from neighbors

• Hygiene concerns within shared buildings

• Building policies that restrict animals

Because of these issues, it is essential to inform your real estate agent in advance if you need a pet-friendly home in Kuwait.

At Q8REALTOR, many of the listed properties across Kuwait www.q8realtor.com (Salmiya, Fintas, Mahboula, Mangaf, Sabah Al Salem, etc.) are pet-friendly, depending on landlord terms. We guide clients to buildings that welcome pets and understand pet ownership responsibilities.

3. PET-FRIENDLY SPOTS IN KUWAIT

Kuwait’s pet community is growing, and more public spaces are becoming pet-friendly. These places offer opportunities for pets to socialize and enjoy outdoor time.

Popular pet-friendly places include:

• Al Shaheed Park – a beautiful green space ideal for walks.

• Fur Friends Park (Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh) – Kuwait’s first dedicated dog park.

• Salmiya Gulf Road – a scenic area perfect for sunset walks with dogs.

Tips for Visiting These Spots:

• Check the rules and follow leash guidelines.

• Bring essentials—water, bowl, poop bags, first aid items.

• Avoid the midday heat; choose early morning or after sunset.

• Keep pets close and clean up immediately to maintain a positive environment.

• Let your pet wear a padded set of shoes specially during summer since the pavement can burn their paws.

4. PET MEDICAL EXPENSES IN KUWAIT

Veterinary costs in Kuwait vary depending on the clinic, location, and treatment. Understanding these expenses can help expats plan better when moving into pet-friendly accommodation.

Common Costs:

• Consultation: KD 3 – KD 10

• Vaccinations: KD 4.5 – KD 10

• Rabies vaccine: Around KD 5

• Deworming: KD 1.5

• Microchipping: KD 2.5 – KD 5

• Spaying/Neutering: KD 15 – KD 55 for cats; KD 40+ for dogs

• Emergency care or hospital admission may cost around KD 100 or more depending on cases

• Cremation (IVH): KD30

Affordable clinics such as HSE in Salmiya or Palm Agro often offer budget-friendly options. Some residents in Kuwait now also choose pet insurance, such as GIG Takaful’s pet plans, to help cover emergency care.

Highly specialized medical treatment is also available in hospitals such as International Veterinary Hospital (IVH) located in Mina Abdullah and Royal Animal Hospital (RAH) in Rai Industrial Area.

It is recommended to be selective of medical facilities which you will trust when it comes to medical care of your pets. Get to know the available medical facilities in the country and once you get to know each of them and who are giving the best care, stick with them.  They will help you in times of emergency and could be contacted anytime should you need follow throughs for your pets.

5. PET SUPPLIES

There were sprouting like mushrooms and readily available in every governorate or areas in Kuwait.  Most of them will have promotions vying for the attention of all pet owners.  However, it is still recommended to check the things you need online and get the best offer in town though prescription of healthy diet is not on promotion.

The reliable go-to-supply-market for all animal is located in Al Rai Industrial Area where you can find the cheapest animal crates, imported dry and wet food, treats, accessories, litter sand, cages, bird food, etc. 

6. PET ADOPTION/RESCUE/FOSTERING

Residents, whether newly arrived or living in Kuwait for a long time, who wanted to have pets, must and foremost, should secure from their landlord the necessary approval before bringing them home with you.  Various rescue groups are in operation and they do entertain applicants who wish to adopt and or foster since most of the times, they are full.  Adoption and rescuing are encouraged rather than buying a pet for personal enjoyment and companionship.

7. BRINGING HOME YOUR PET FOR GOOD

Leaving your beloved pet when you decided to go settle back home is frequently frowned upon.  Some expats would give it up for adoption by posting it online and or hand it over to their friends who can take care of them.  However, not all of these once-beloved-pets are successfully rehomed.  Most of them ended up on the streets becoming a stray.  Rescue groups are actively campaigning for responsible ownership by helping these expats in securing the necessary export and medical permits to take their pets with them.  Different airlines are available for pet transport.  Significantly, every country has its own rules when you bring them home with you.  It is highly suggested to check the quarantine procedure in your own country as well.

Overview

Owning a pet in Kuwait is absolutely possible. The key is planning ahead—understanding pet import rules, being mindful of medical costs, and working with the right real estate agent to find a pet-friendly apartment in Kuwait. With more pet events, adoption drives, and friendly communities across the city, Kuwait is becoming an increasingly welcoming place for pet lovers.

Q8REALTOR is always ready to help you find a home that suits both you and your pet, ensuring a comfortable and happy life in Kuwait.

Written by

Alma TANTOY, Senior Leasing Executive, Q8REALTOR