In today’s world, it’s difficult to find a home that doesn’t have a pet under its roof. According to an online survey taken by 27,000 people across 22 countries, 56% of participants have at least one pet living with them. On average, 33% of households globally have a dog, while 23% own a cat.
To put these statistics in perspective, 4 million cats and dogs are adopted from shelters each year in the US, while 85 million US families own at least one pet – and this is only in one country.
This data proves that cats and dogs have become more than just pets – they’re part of the family. Pet owners spend billions on their pets – amounts of which are dedicated to hospitality.
More often than not, when pet owners go on extended holidays or business trips, they set their dogs or cats up in pet boarding kennels or catteries. This is because so many hotels and serviced accommodations do not allow pets.
However, Google Trends data collected over a 12-month period shows that more people want to take their pets along on holiday. During this specific time, there was a 157% increase in Google searches for “pet-friendly hotels”, while “pet-friendly holiday homes” searches have increased by more than 60% and searches for “dog-friendly hotel” has skyrocketed by 450% in that same time period.
So, if your furry friend is a beloved member of the family and you don’t want to leave them alone the next time you spend 30 days or more in Dubai, then here are a few pet-friendly hotels and serviced apartments in the emirate.
Questions you should ask before choosing a pet-friendly hotel
1. Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Always triple-check that the hotel you’re looking to stay at is actually pet-friendly. Hotel pet policies are known to change quickly and frequently, with many websites not being updated right away. So, be sure to call the hotel directly and not take the word of any website, whether official or third-party, on the pet policy.
Furthermore, the words “pet-friendly” don’t always encompass all animals. For instance, dogs may be allowed at the hotel, but that doesn’t mean that cats are.
Make sure to get the proper confirmation and details of a hotel’s pet policy, as well as everything you would need to provide on your side – such as your pets’ vaccinations – when booking your stay.
2. Does the hotel have a weight or breed restriction?
Pet-friendly policies don’t always encompass every and all types of animals. Some might impose weight restrictions that only allow for cats and small dogs, or might only permit certain breeds into the hotel.
For the most part, most of these accommodations have some wiggle room in their limitations and will do their best to accommodate when asked, but it’s best to ensure that your hotel or serviced apartment’s pet policy includes your specific pet’s weight and/or breed.
3. How many pets are allowed per room?
This question is particularly important when travelling with multiple pets, as some hotels have a general pet policy of only allowing one pet per room, while others don’t impose a limit. Each hotel is different, so make sure to find out what their pet policy states.
4. Does the hotel charge additional pet fees?
Depending on the hotel’s policy, additional pet fees could range from free to charges that can nearly double the nightly room rate.
Whether the charge is per night, per stay or per pet, make sure you have a clear understanding of what you’ll be charged before making any reservation. Don’t forget to ask whether any portion of the fee is refundable if the room isn’t damaged during your stay.
5. Are pet travellers limited to undesirable rooms?
In the past, people travelling with pets were designated to the least desirable rooms, as these were the pet-friendly options. However, times have changed and this is no longer common practice – but that doesn’t mean that it has disappeared completely.
Be sure to find out which room you’ll be booked into, and if you’d prefer a different one, find out upfront if your request can be accommodated.
6. What pet-friendly amenities does the hotel offer?
You want the hotel to have a few essential amenities and facilities that your pet can enjoy during your stay. Some of the most common amenities are a grassy pet relief area, treats at check-in, pet beds and bowls in the room, doggy room service menus, spa treatments, pet-sitting services and restaurants with pet-friendly patios.
7. Can you leave pets unattended in the room?
There will be times, especially at night, when you want to go out and you can’t bring your pets with you, so you’ll want to leave them at the hotel alone for an hour or two. So, before booking any location, make sure to determine whether the hotel allows you to leave your pets alone while you step out for a bit to eat or run an errand.
8. Are there areas of the hotel that are off-limits to pets?
Most hotels generally don’t allow pets in the breakfast areas, restaurants, pools and fitness rooms, while some of the more extreme accommodations won’t even allow pets in the lobby. It’s imperative to know beforehand where your pets are welcome and where they are not.
Pet-friendly hotels and serviced accommodation in Dubai
The next time you’re on a long-term trip to Dubai, whether for business or leisure, you won’t need to leave your furry friends at home. Here are our amazing Sleep Partners that offer pet-friendly policies:
- Vida Downtown: Located in the heart of Dubai, this boutique hotel offers an unforgettable experience within walking distance of the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa.
- Jumeirah Living Marina Gate: Enjoy all Dubai’s upbeat Marina has to offer when staying at this exceptional destination that prioritises urban living, from its sumptuous interiors to its unrivalled service.
- Melia Desert Palm Dubai: Spend your days at a polo wellness oasis with a hint of Spanish charm. Set amidst a 160-acre polo estate, this contemporary resort is a haven for discerning travellers seeking memorable experiences infused with wellness and sport.
- Radisson RED Hotel Dubai Silicon Oasis: Perfect for tech-lovers, this slice of paradise offers a refreshingly different way to stay in Dubai’s tech playground, Dubai Digital Park.
Book. Sleep. Reward. Repeat.
If you plan to visit Dubai for 30 nights or longer, then you’ll need a place to stay. Lucky for you, you’ve come to the right place!
Thirty Sleeps Sleeper Partners offer affordable and commitment-free short-term stays when you book for 30 days or more. There are no rental contracts, no additional expenses and no hidden fees. All you need to do is pay one all-inclusive fee and enjoy all the perks of a fully serviced and equipped luxury accommodation.
Visit Thirty Sleeps today and find the perfect short-term rental accommodation for you.
