Your Guide to Discovering Dubai Pet Sitter Costs
Pet sitter costs in Dubai are all over the place. Search online and you’ll find prices ranging from AED 50 to AED 500+ for what sounds like the same service. The range isn’t random — it reflects genuine differences in what’s included, who’s doing it, and how much experience they have. This guide breaks down what pet sitting in Dubai actually costs and what you’re paying for.
Pet Sitter Prices in Dubai (2025)
| Service Type | Typical Price Range (AED) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Drop-in visit (30 min) | 60–120 | Feeding, water refresh, brief play/toilet break, photo update |
| Dog walking (1 hour) | 80–150 | Walk in local area, feeding if requested, photo update |
| Overnight pet sitting (in your home) | 200–400 | Sitter stays in your home, feeding, walks, company for your pet |
| Live-in sitter (per day) | 300–600 | Full-time care in your home while you travel |
| Holiday / multi-day package | 150–250 per day | Regular visits or stays, daily updates, feeding, walks |
| Boarding at sitter’s home | 120–200 per night | Your pet stays at the sitter’s residence |
Prices above are approximate Dubai market rates as of 2025. Actual costs depend on the sitter’s experience, your location, number of pets, and any additional services required.
Where to Find a Pet Sitter in Dubai
PETWITHIT Pet Sitter Directory
The PETWITHIT directory lists verified pet sitters in Dubai and the UAE with profiles, reviews, and contact details. A good starting point for finding someone local to your area who has been reviewed by other UAE pet owners.
Rover UAE
Rover is one of the most widely used pet sitter platforms globally, with a growing UAE presence. The platform handles bookings, payments, and insurance, and sitters are reviewed. Pricing is generally at the mid-to-upper end of the Dubai market but the vetting process and review system provide additional reassurance.
Instagram & Community Recommendations
A significant portion of Dubai’s pet sitter market operates informally through Instagram and WhatsApp. The PETWITHIT community channels and local expat groups regularly share recommendations for trusted sitters — community recommendations from people who have used the same sitter with their own dogs are often the most reliable endorsement.
What Affects Pet Sitter Prices in Dubai
Experience and qualifications: Sitters with formal animal care training, first aid certification, or veterinary backgrounds charge more — and for good reason. This is worth paying for if your dog has health issues or behavioural needs.
Your location: Sitters in Dubai Marina and DIFC tend to charge more than those in the outer communities. Travel time to your home is factored into pricing for visit-based services.
Number of pets: Most sitters charge an additional fee for each extra pet. A second dog or a dog-and-cat combination will typically add 30–50% to the base rate.
Breed and size: Some sitters charge more for large breeds or for dogs with specific needs (reactive dogs, senior dogs requiring medication, etc.).
Short-notice bookings: Last-minute requests — especially during Eid and National Day — can attract a premium of 20–50% above standard rates.
How to Choose a Pet Sitter in Dubai
Start with a meet-and-greet before committing to a booking, especially for overnight or multi-day services. A good sitter will welcome this; it tells you a lot about how they work with animals. Ask about their experience with your specific breed and size of dog. Check whether they’re insured — basic pet sitter insurance exists in the UAE and responsible operators carry it. Look for sitters who send photo and video updates during visits; this is standard practice for good sitters and reassuring when you’re away. For holiday bookings, especially during Eid when many sitters are also fully booked, lock in your dates as early as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pet sitting regulated in Dubai?
Pet sitting as a formal profession is not specifically regulated by a single body in Dubai — there is no required licence equivalent to what exists in some Western countries. This means the range of quality is wide. The best protection is referrals from people you trust, platforms with review systems (like Rover), or directory listings with verified reviews like those on PETWITHIT.
Should I use a pet sitting app or hire a local individual in Dubai?
Both can work well. App-based services like Rover provide structure, insurance, and reviews — useful if you’re new to Dubai or don’t have personal referrals. Local individual sitters often provide more flexibility, a more personal relationship with your pet, and can be more cost-effective for regular bookings. Many experienced Dubai pet sitters operate independently and are found through community word of mouth.
How far in advance should I book a pet sitter for Eid in Dubai?
At least 3–4 weeks ahead. Quality pet sitters in Dubai book out completely during Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha — these are the most-requested periods of the year. If you have a regular sitter you trust, lock in Eid dates as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. Last-minute requests during Eid are rarely successful and often end in compromise.
What should I prepare for a pet sitter visiting my home in Dubai?
A written note covering: feeding times and amounts, your dog’s routine, emergency vet contact (see our 24/7 emergency vet guide), any medical needs or medications, your dog’s quirks (reactive to strangers? Scared of noise? Escape risk?), and how to reach you. The more context you provide, the better the care your dog receives in your absence.
Are you a pet sitter in Dubai or the UAE? List your services on PETWITHIT and connect with pet owners in your area.
