No. Owning a kangaroo in the UAE violates federal wildlife protection laws and local municipal ordinances, as the species is classified under CITES Appendix II. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) enforces strict prohibitions, requiring permits for exotic pets that are rarely granted for non-native fauna. Violations risk fines up to AED 200,000 or imprisonment under Federal Decree-Law No. 23 of 2020.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in United Arab Emirates
- CITES Compliance: Kangaroos are protected under CITES Appendix II, mandating import permits from MOCCAE, which are typically denied for private ownership.
- Local Permitting: Dubai Municipality and Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development prohibit kangaroo ownership via municipal bylaws, classifying them as “dangerous animals” requiring specialized facilities.
- Animal Welfare Laws: Federal Law No. 16 of 2007 on Animal Welfare prohibits the keeping of wild animals as pets without government-approved conservation purposes, with enforcement by local authorities.