The UAE's ban on the veterinary use of ciprofloxacin took effect on 1 November. The restriction covers nine veterinary products containing the antibiotic, including eight imported products and one registered locally. It is intended to protect the effectiveness of important antibiotics used in human medicine. Pet owners whose animals have been prescribed the drug should speak to their vet about suitable alternatives.

The details

The Emirates Drug Establishment's ban on the veterinary use of ciprofloxacin took effect across the UAE on 1 November 2026.

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone family and is used to treat certain bacterial infections.

The regulator introduced the restriction because this class of medicines is considered critically important for human healthcare.

The concern is that inappropriate antibiotic use in animals could contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making some infections harder to treat in people.

The restriction covers veterinary medicines and raw materials containing ciprofloxacin.

Nine veterinary products are affected, including eight imported products and one locally registered product.

The Emirates Drug Establishment has instructed relevant businesses to stop manufacturing, importing and supplying the affected products and remove existing stocks from the market.

Remaining products must be re-exported or disposed of according to approved requirements.

The decision followed an assessment of antimicrobial resistance data, including research submitted by United Arab Emirates University.

For pet owners, the practical implication is that treatment decisions involving this antibiotic may need to change.

Owners should consult their veterinarian rather than independently stopping or substituting prescribed medication.