International dog adoptions: Adopt a rescue from the UAE
- tiina
- May 7
- 5 min read
Updated: May 16
At Stray Dogs Center, we care for over 1,480 rescue dogs — many saved from neglect, abandonment, unsafe conditions or surrendered by previous owner. While we work hard to rehome dogs locally, the number of dogs in need far exceeds the demand within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In 2024 we managed to rehome 260 dogs, but sadly our yearly intake is much higher, and has lead to our shelter becoming the largest in the UAE and 4th largest in the world.
We’re now reaching out internationally to find more forever homes. If you're based abroad and have put a lot of thought into adding a furry member to your family and have the ability to adopt, you could make an enormous difference in the life of a rescue dog.
🌍 Why consider international dog adoption?
Many of our dogs have been through a lot, yet they are resilient, affectionate, and ready to become part of a family. International adoption offers a new chance at life, especially when local options are limited.
For adopters, the reward is just as great. You’re not just welcoming a pet — you’re saving a life and opening space for another dog to be rescued.
“I adopted my beautiful husky, Shirin, from Stray Dogs Center, and I couldn’t be happier. From the very beginning, the team was supportive, transparent, and kind. I highly recommend them to anyone looking to adopt a rescue dog.” — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Aygun, adopter of Sirin (aka Janny)
🩺 Health, vaccinations & behaviour assessment
All dogs rehomed through international adoption are:
🐕 Spayed or neutered
💉 Fully vaccinated
📋 Accompanied by complete veterinary records that meet the import requirements of their destination country
🐾 Temperament assessed — we never send dogs abroad who show signs of aggression or serious behavioural issues
We want every adoption to succeed. Our aim is always to match the right dog with the right home, and we are honest and open about each dog’s personality, energy level, and needs.
🐶 What kinds of dogs are available for adoption?
We care for dogs of all kinds — mixed breeds, large breeds, even many purebred dogs including Great Dane, Chow Chow, Labrador, German Shepherd, Shiba Inu, Akita, Malinois, and Husky, just to name a few. However, very small dogs are rarely listed for international adoption, as they are often adopted locally and quickly. Most international adopters can expect to find medium- (knee height) to large-sized dogs, mostly the lovely natured 'UAE special' desert mixes in various colour combinations.
We do our best to showcase the dogs who are next in line for adoption on our website. Some wait in boarding while others get to live in foster homes. Have a look to see if there is someone you would like to know more about!
SEE OUR AVAILABLE DOGS FOR ADOPTION:
“What a wonderful charity. The process from the trial period to collecting the pet passport was smooth. Special thanks to Seema and Chico’s foster mum — they made everything so easy.”— ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steve, adopter of Chico
❄️ Special focus: The Husky relocation initiative
To many people's surprise we have a high number of huskies and malamutes in our care — here in the land of desert heat. Many were surrendered by owners who bought them as cute, fluffy puppies without realising they would grow into energetic dogs that need regular exercise and mental stimulation. These arctic dogs require experienced owners and climates better suited to their thick coats and active nature.
Our Husky Relocation Initiative helps place these dogs abroad, and thanks to an incredible sponsor, all relocation costs are covered. Adopters contribute only AED 1,000 (= EUR 250 / GBP 204 / USD 272) to help cover the dog’s veterinary bill.
This initiative offers:
Safe, breed-appropriate rehoming
Thorough health checks and records
A chance for each husky to thrive in a suitable environment
ADOPTED ABROAD: Betty was the first in our Husky Program to get rehomed abroad, all the way to Finland ❄️
“Betty was the first husky getting adopted in the husky relocation program, and we were so lucky to get her to Finland. She has changed our lives and filled our days with joy. We waited nearly a month for her to fly from Dubai, but it was well worth the wait and the process was very smooth.”— ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Pete, adopter of Betty
✈️ How the international dog adoption process works
Once you fill out our adoption form (non-binding), we’ll review your details and one of our team members will be assigned to contact you to help guide you through the process, including:
Travel options based on your location (TIP: you can also combine a vacation in Dubai and return with your new dog!)
Estimated costs (note: there is no fixed price — it depends on airline, season, route availability, and the dog’s size).
Timeline and preparation
Some airlines only offer seasonal direct flights, and others have restrictions for certain breeds or temperature conditions. We’ll help you understand what's possible and realistic.
📄 Step one: Fill out the international adoption form
If you're considering adopting a dog from Stray Dogs Center, your first step is to fill out our International Adoption Form. It’s a detailed but straightforward questionnaire designed to help us get to know you and your household and experience with dogs.
This information allows us to match each dog with the most suitable home — and each adopter with a dog whose needs and temperament fit their lifestyle.
There’s no commitment at this stage — it’s simply the first step in starting the conversation.
💛 Every adoption creates space for another rescue
Each dog that finds a home makes it possible for another to leave our overcrowded shelter in the remote corner of Umm Al Quwain — a tough environment, far from most adopters, where resources are stretched thin caring for over 1,480 dogs.
Adopted dogs free up a spot in our Boster Program at Bed & Biscuits, our trusted boarding partner in Dubai. There, dogs have more space, one-on-one care, and the comfort of air conditioning — a true relief after the harsh conditions of the shelter.
However, access to the boster program depends not only on adoptions but also on bosters/sponsors who help cover the cost of boarding. Every sponsorship gives one more dog the opportunity to move closer to a forever home.
That space, and that second chance, means everything to the next dog still waiting.
🐕 Are you ready to adopt a rescue dog from the UAE?
International adoption may feel like a big step, but for many of our dogs, it’s their only chance at a new life. If you’re in a position to adopt, and willing to open your home and heart, we’d love to hear from you.
You could be the new beginning one of our dogs has been waiting for.
“From the very first message to meeting our new family member at the airport, the process was clear, thoughtful, and reassuring. We’re so grateful to have adopted from Stray Dogs Center.”— ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Anna, husky adopter
Comments