Doha: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior, has called on individuals possessing animals and species classified as dangerous to register them through its website or via the designated email before the deadline on April 22. This initiative is aimed at ensuring public safety and adherence to applicable laws.
According to Qatar News Agency, the ministry stated that owning such animals or species without a license is a violation of Law No. (10) of 2019 and is subject to penalties including imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to QR 100,000, or both. The law also imposes a harsher penalty of up to 25 years of imprisonment if the violation leads to a person’s death or permanent disability.
Head of the Wildlife Department at the ministry, Dr. Dhafi Nasser Haidan, explained that the comprehensive survey to catalogue dangerous animals and species is part of implementing national legislation and Qatar’s international obligations. The list includes 48 species such as tigers, lions, certain dog breeds like Rottweilers and Dobermans, and primates like baboons and green monkeys.
Dr. Haidan emphasized the ministry’s goal of creating an integrated database covering the types of these animals, their locations, and the surrounding environmental conditions. This effort aims to ensure compliance with regulatory standards for their care, protect the well-being of owners and animals, and enhance environmental security in the country.
He mentioned that several coordination meetings have been held with entities including the Ministry of Interior, the General Authority of Customs, and the Ministry of Municipality to discuss regulations for possessing and importing dogs classified as dangerous, ensuring effective implementation.
After the registration deadline, the ministry will conduct field visits to verify conditions for registered owners and detect violations, taking legal action against non-compliant individuals. Additionally, specialized training programs will be launched for those responsible for caring for such animals, equipping them with necessary skills.
The Head of the Wildlife Section urged all owners to complete registration procedures before the deadline and warned of legal consequences for non-compliance, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and public safety.