The Rise Of Pet Friendly Living In Dubai

For years, owning a pet in Dubai meant compromise. Dogs and cats were loyal companions at home but rarely part of city life. Beyond a few outdoor spaces and the occasional café terrace, the urban environment wasn’t built with four-legged friends in mind.

That picture is steadily changing. Today, pets are increasingly woven into Dubai’s lifestyle. From dog-friendly parks in Dubai to pet menus at cafés, grooming lounges that rival spas, and even birthday “pawties,” the city is evolving to welcome animals as part of daily life. It’s not a sudden transformation, but a steady shift - one that mirrors Dubai’s spirit of inclusivity and innovation.

The numbers tell their own story. Pet ownership in the UAE rose by around 30% during the pandemic, with the industry valued at over $300 million and projected to cross $2 billion this year. That growth has not only normalised pets in public spaces but also encouraged businesses, particularly in hospitality, to adapt.

Hotels once limited their definition of “pet-friendly” to small allowances: a water bowl here, a cleaning fee there, and plenty of fine print about weight limits or extra charges. While restrictions still exist in many places, more properties are now beginning to rethink their approach, offering packages and experiences that make travelling with pets easier, less restrictive, and more enjoyable.

Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis is one of the hotels that has leaned into this growing demand. Its Paws, Play, Stay package removes some of the common barriers, like weight restrictions and veterinary certificates, and replaces them with practical, pet-centered touches. Guests can expect shared breakfasts with their pups, an in-room dog bed with feeding bowl and welcome treats, a playful “pup-cuterie” plate, and a curated guide to nearby pet-friendly cafés, parks, and groomers.

Nina Petridis, the hotel’s General Manager says the aim is to reflect how people now see their pets. “We know that for many of our guests, pets aren’t just companions, they’re part of the family. Our role as hoteliers is to make travel feel seamless and inclusive, so guests don’t have to choose between quality time away and time with their pets.”

Just as the city adapts to global trends in technology, fashion, and wellness, it’s also embracing the global movement of pets as family. Across the city, restaurants, workplaces, and community hubs are trialing pet-friendly policies and experiences. The result? A city that no longer treats pets as an afterthought, but as integral members of its social fabric.

Global studies underline why: pets are proven to reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and strengthen social bonds. The ripple effect is that cities feel more connected, more community-driven, and yes, happier.

As Dubai continues to grow and redefine itself, the presence of pets in its cafés, parks, and hotels signals a city that recognizes joy in all its forms. For residents and travellers alike, that means a lifestyle that’s warmer, more human, and quietly more complete - because a city that welcomes pets is a city that welcomes everyone.