UAE Passes Draft Law Imposing Jail Time, Up to Dh1 Million Fine for Illegal Animal Imports
The Federal National Council (FNC) has approved a new draft law that introduces strict penalties, including jail sentences and fines ranging from Dh100,000 to Dh1 million, for individuals or entities involved in the illegal importation of animals into the UAE through unofficial or unauthorized channels.
The legislation, passed on Wednesday, June 25, is a significant step in the UAE’s efforts to combat the spread of animal-borne diseases and protect public health, local ecosystems, and food security.
Enhanced Quarantine and Inspection Measures
Under the draft law, all animal shipments — whether entering, exiting, or transiting through the country — will be subject to enhanced veterinary quarantine procedures. These include rigorous inspections and health checks aimed at detecting infectious diseases and preventing their transmission to domestic animal populations or humans.
Officials emphasized that the new law will tighten border controls and reinforce the country's biosecurity protocols, aligning with global standards for animal health and disease prevention.
The move comes amid growing international concern about the cross-border spread of zoonotic diseases, with the UAE aiming to set a benchmark in proactive health and safety regulations.
More details about the implementation timeline and enforcement procedures are expected in the coming weeks as the law advances toward final approval and enactment.
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