Pet Sitting Market Size in UAE 2026

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a pet sitter in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, here’s something that’ll get your tail wagging: the pet sitting industry in the UAE is absolutely booming, and 2026 is shaping up to be the perfect time to jump in.

I remember when I first started using pet sitting services. Back then, finding a reliable pet sitter felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fast forward to today, and the UAE pet-sitting market has transformed into a thriving industry worth millions, with opportunities emerging faster than you can say “good boy!”

Understanding the Pet Sitting Market Size in the UAE

The numbers tell an exciting story. The UAE pet sitting market generated USD 25.5 million in 2024 and is expected to skyrocket to USD 44.1 million by 2030. That’s a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.7% from 2025 to 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing segments in the region’s pet care industry.

But what does this actually mean for you? Whether you’re a pet parent seeking trusted care or someone considering pet sitting as a side hustle, these figures represent a genuine opportunity. The market is expanding because more people in the UAE are welcoming furry friends into their homes and treating them like family members.

Breaking Down the Pet Sitting Statistics

Here’s what’s driving this incredible growth:

Pet Ownership Surge: Pet ownership in the UAE jumped by 30% during and after the pandemic. Today, there are approximately 1.5 million pet owners with over 2 million pets nationwide. Dogs currently dominate the pet-sitting market with a 71.76% revenue share, but cat-sitting is the fastest-growing segment, reflecting the increasing number of feline friends in UAE households.

Urban Lifestyle Changes: Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to busy professionals and families who travel frequently for work or leisure. When someone needs to attend conferences or take family vacations, you can’t always bring your pets along. That’s where professional pet sitters step in, offering peace of mind and quality care.

Premium Service Demand: Today’s pet parents aren’t just looking for someone to feed their pets. They want experienced sitters who provide updates, playtime, walks, and genuine companionship. This shift toward premium services is pushing the market value higher year after year.

How Much is the Pet Industry Worth in the UAE?

The broader pet care market in the UAE tells an even more impressive story. As of 2024, the UAE pet care market is valued at USD 24.4 million with a projected growth rate of 6.4% through 2030. Some industry projections suggest that the overall pet industry could reach USD 2 billion by 2025, encompassing all pet-related products and services.

This expansion covers everything from pet food and veterinary care to grooming and, of course, pet sitting services. The pet sitting segment, although smaller, is growing faster than many other categories because it addresses a very specific need: keeping pets happy and safe in their own homes when owners are unable to be there.

What Makes Pet Sitting Different from Other Pet Services?

Unlike boarding facilities or kennels, pet sitting allows pets to stay in their familiar environment. Tito gets anxious when he’s away from home, something many pet parents can relate to. In-home pet sitting eliminates that stress while providing personalized, one-on-one attention that boarding facilities simply can’t match.

The Growing Opportunity for Pet Sitters in Dubai and Other Emirates

If you’ve been considering becoming a pet sitter, the timing couldn’t be better. The demand for reliable, certified pet sitters far exceeds the current supply, particularly in major cities such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.

What Pet Sitters Can Earn

Pet sitting in Dubai offers an attractive earning potential. Daily rates for dog sitting typically range from AED 100 to AED 250 per day, depending on factors such as the dog’s size, breed requirements, and the level of care required. Cat sitting services generally cost between AED 70 and AED 150 per day, with some sitters offering visit-based pricing at AED 50 to AED 100 per check-in.

For professional pet sitters offering specialized services or caring for multiple pets, monthly earnings can be substantial. Many sitters working through trusted platforms earn between AED 3,000 to AED 8,000 per month as a side income, with full-time professional sitters earning even more.

Building Your Pet Sitting Career

The key to success in this growing market isn’t just loving animals (though that definitely helps!). Professional pet sitters need proper training, certification, and a platform that connects them with pet parents who need their services.

That’s where technology is changing the game. Modern pet-sitting apps make it easier than ever to start your pet-sitting business, get certified, build your reputation through reviews, and manage bookings seamlessly. Pet Watch, for example, offers aspiring pet sitters the tools to get certified, connect with pet parents in their area, and build a reliable income stream doing something they love.

Pet parents on Pet Watch love that they can check reviews, see sitter profiles, and communicate directly through the app. As a sitter, having that professional platform backing you up makes all the difference in attracting clients and growing your business.

UAE Pet Sitting Market Trends Shaping 2026

Several key trends are shaping where the pet sitting industry is headed:

Digital Transformation: Pet Parents Want Convenience. Mobile apps that handle booking, payments, real-time updates, and reviews are becoming the standard. Sitters who embrace technology and work through professional platforms have a significant advantage.

Certification Matters: As the industry professionalizes, pet parents are increasingly seeking certified sitters with proper training in pet first aid, understanding of behavior, and emergency protocols. Obtaining certification isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore; it’s becoming increasingly essential.

Specialized Services: There is a growing demand for sitters with specific expertise, whether that involves handling senior pets, administering medications, caring for exotic animals, or managing pets with special needs. Specialization can help sitters command premium rates.

Regular Updates and Communication: Today’s pet parents expect regular updates and communication, including photos and videos, during sitting sessions. The ability to provide these updates easily through an app or platform is practically mandatory.

Trust and Verification: Background checks, verified reviews, and identity verification are becoming industry standards. Platforms that prioritize safety and trust are winning the market.

The Regional Advantage: Why the UAE is a Pet Sitting Hotspot

The UAE offers unique advantages that make it particularly attractive for pet sitting services:

High Disposable Income: The UAE boasts one of the highest per capita incomes in the region, indicating that pet parents are willing to invest in quality care for their furry family members.

Expatriate Population: Dubai and Abu Dhabi host large expatriate communities that travel frequently, creating consistent demand for pet-sitting services.

Pet-Friendly Infrastructure: The UAE is becoming increasingly pet-friendly, with hotels, restaurants, and public spaces normalizing pet ownership and offering care services.

Year-Round Demand: Unlike seasonal tourism destinations, the UAE’s diverse population generates steady, year-round demand for pet-sitting services.

Getting Started as a Pet Sitter in 2026

Ready to become part of this growing industry? Here’s what you need to know:

Step 1: Obtain Certified Professional certification to gain credibility and acquire essential skills. Look for programs that cover pet first aid, animal behavior, and emergency response.

Step 2: Choose the Right Platform. Join a reputable pet sitting platform that provides insurance, payment protection, and connects you with vetted pet parents. Ensure they provide proper support and verification processes.

Step 3: Build Your Profile. Create a detailed profile that showcases your experience, certifications, and passion for animals. Include photos and be specific about what types of pets you can care for.

Step 4: Start Small and Build Reviews. Begin with a few clients and focus on providing exceptional service. Positive reviews are gold in this industry and will help you attract more clients.

Step 5: Communicate Effectively. Respond promptly to inquiries, provide updates during meetings, and be transparent about your availability and capabilities.

The Future of Pet Sitting in the UAE

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, the pet sitting market in the UAE shows no signs of slowing down. As more people embrace pet ownership and demand convenience, the need for reliable, professional pet sitters will only grow.

The shift toward premium, personalized pet care services means there’s room for sitters at every level, from those just starting out to experienced professionals offering specialized services. The key is professionalism, proper certification, and leveraging technology to connect with pet parents who need your services.

For pet parents, having access to a network of certified, trustworthy sitters through a reliable app means never having to stress about your pet’s care when life gets busy. For aspiring sitters, it means the opportunity to build a flexible, rewarding income stream in one of the region’s fastest-growing industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the pet care market in the UAE?

The UAE pet care market was valued at USD 24.4 million in 2024, with projections showing steady growth at a 6.4% CAGR through 2030. The broader pet industry, including all products and services, is expected to reach approximately USD 2 billion by 2025, making the UAE the largest pet care market in the Gulf region.

How big is the pet sitting market?

The UAE pet sitting market specifically generated USD 25.5 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 44.1 million by 2030, growing at an impressive 14.7% CAGR. This makes it one of the fastest-growing segments within the pet care industry, driven by increasing pet ownership and changing lifestyle patterns in urban areas.

How much do pet sitters make in Dubai?

Pet sitter earnings in Dubai vary based on experience, services offered, and the number of clients. Professional pet sitters typically earn between AED 3,000 to AED 8,000 per month as supplementary income, with full-time sitters earning more. Rates depend on the type of pet, duration of care, and additional services provided.

How much is pet sitting in Dubai?

Pet sitting rates in Dubai range from AED 100 to AED 250 per day for dogs, depending on size, breed, and care requirements. Cat sitting services typically cost between AED 70 and AED 150 per day. Visit-based services are also available at AED 50 to AED 100 per check-in, offering flexibility for pets that need less intensive supervision.

Ready to Start Your Pet Sitting Journey?

Whether you’re a pet parent looking for trusted care or someone ready to turn your love for animals into income, the UAE pet sitting market in 2026 offers incredible opportunities. Download the Pet Watch app today to connect with certified pet sitters or start your journey as a professional pet sitter. Get certified, build your reputation, and become part of the UAE’s fastest-growing pet care community!

By Monja Madan, Founder of Pet Watch App.

October 29, 2025