Permanently export horses to the United Arab Emirates (UAE): certificate 2849

Use these forms and guidance documents to export horses to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on a permanent basis.

You cannot export cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses for fattening and slaughter. This applies to journeys from or through Great Britain to anywhere outside the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man. You can still export live cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses for other purposes. For example, for breeding and competitions.

Exporting from England, Scotland and Wales

If you’re in England, Scotland or Wales, you must apply for this export health certificate (EHC) using the online service.

If you’re in Northern Ireland, you must apply to DAERA.

1. Check what you need for your export

Find out about the requirements for export in the guidance notes.

Download a specimen certificate EHC 2849, version 1: Permanently export horses to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Support health certificate 2849SUP.

2. Apply online

You’ll need:

  • a Government Gateway account
  • a Defra account

If you don’t already have them you’ll need to register for these accounts, and so will your official vet or inspector.

Start now

Registration takes around 5 minutes. Official vets and inspectors will also need to have their registration checked by APHA.

Register and sign in as an official vet or inspector.

Read the accessibility statement for this service.

Applying online means you can:

  • see the status of your applications
  • always use the latest version of the EHC
  • copy existing applications
  • apply for multiple certificates

Exporting from Northern Ireland

If you’re in Northern Ireland you’ll need to upload your application for DAERA.

  1. Find out about the requirements for export in the guidance notes.

  2. Download and fill in EHC 2849, version 1: Permanently export horses to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Support health certificate 2849SUP.

  3. Upload your application.

Make sure you use the latest version of the EHC as they are sometimes updated. The latest version is on this page.

If you do not use the latest version, DAERA will not accept your application.

Help with your application

In England, Scotland and Wales, call APHA on 03000 200 301.

In Northern Ireland, call DAERA on 02877442060.

Find out about call charges.

Updates to this page

Published 29 November 2018
Last updated 30 August 2024 + show all updates
  1. Guidance notes updated regarding the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Act 2024.

  2. From 22nd July 2024, you cannot export cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses for fattening and slaughter.

  3. Guidance notes updated.

  4. Added a link to EHC online - a new digital service that allows exporters to apply for and manage their export health certificates online.

  5. First published.