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Airline Guide

Saudi Arabian Airlines

Last verified 2026-06Request a Quote
In-cabin not availableCargo availableSummer embargo

Cargo

Saudia Cargo accepts live animals on limited routes, subject to Saudi Arabia Ministry of Agriculture approval. Cargo pricing on request. Summer heat embargo enforced May–October at Saudi airports.

Route Restrictions

Cargo only. Saudi Arabia has significant restrictions on dog imports — cats are generally more accepted. Routes connect Saudi Arabia with Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Breed Restrictions

  • Dogs: strict Islamic cultural restrictions apply — Saudi Arabia limits dog imports significantly; service dogs may be excepted
  • All brachycephalic breeds subject to cargo restrictions

Summer Embargo

Cargo embargoed: May, June, July, August, September, October

Paws en route Notes

Saudi Arabia's religious and cultural restrictions on dogs make dog relocations into KSA among the most complex globally. Cat moves are more feasible. Always verify current Saudi Ministry of Agriculture requirements before confirming any Saudia cargo booking.

Done-for-You Service

Saudi Arabian Airlines's breed rules can disqualify your pet at the gate.

Our IPATA-certified team checks your exact breed against Saudi Arabian Airlines's current restrictions, confirms cargo route eligibility, and handles the booking so nothing falls through.

Get a Saudi Arabian Airlines relocation quote

Cargo Kennels

Saudi Arabian Airlines Approved Cargo Crates & Travel Kennels

For pets traveling in the hold, Saudi Arabian Airlines enforces strict IATA CR-82 regulations. Wire crates and soft-sided bags are prohibited in the cargo hold. We source and size IATA-compliant kennels for your pet — send us a note to get started.

Recommended: IATA-Compliant Hard Kennel

IATA CR-82 Hard-Sided Travel Kennel

  • Rigid plastic or fiberglass construction
  • Metal nuts and bolts (no plastic snap clips)
  • Single-piece, spring-loaded metal door
  • Sized for pet to stand, turn, and lie down naturally

Book with this airline?

We verify Saudi Arabian Airlines's policy before every booking.

Policies change. We call the airline, confirm your breed is cleared, and lock in the pet booking — not just the human seat.

Plan your flight

Common Questions

Saudi Arabian Airlines pet travel — frequently asked

Does Saudi Arabian Airlines allow pets in the cabin?

Saudi Arabian Airlines does not currently offer in-cabin pet travel. Pets may travel as cargo — see the cargo policy above for available options.

Are there breed restrictions on Saudi Arabian Airlines?

Yes, Saudi Arabian Airlines restricts certain breeds including Dogs: strict Islamic cultural restrictions apply — Saudi Arabia limits dog imports significantly; service dogs may be excepted and All brachycephalic breeds subject to cargo restrictions. Brachycephalic (flat-nosed) dogs and cats are most commonly affected. Contact our team for a breed-specific eligibility check before booking.

Does Saudi Arabian Airlines have a summer cargo embargo for pets?

Yes, Saudi Arabian Airlines suspends live animal cargo during May, June, July, August, September, October. Plan travel in shoulder seasons or contact our team to arrange alternative routing.

Popular Destinations

Pet import requirements by country

Each destination has its own import rules, microchip standards, and quarantine requirements. Check the guides below before you book.

Paws en route tarjoaa asiantuntevia lemmikkimatka- ja muuttopalveluita maailmanlaajuisesti. IATA-sertifioidut asiantuntijamme koordinoivat kansainvälisiä lemmikkikuljetuksia, koirien kuljetusta ja kissojen kuljetusta yli 150 kohteeseen – hoitaen eläinlääkinnälliset vaatimukset, tulliselvitykset ja ovelta ovelle -palvelun kaikkialla maailmassa.

IPATA — The Pet Shipping Experts