The UAE government has finally banned citizens from keeping wild animals as pets, instituting punishments ranging from hefty fines to extensive jail time, The Good News Network reported.
Wealthy Emiratis have long held a penchant for keeping exotic animals like lions, tigers, and cheetas, as a status symbol.
The UAE's Law on Regulation of Ownership of Dangerous Animals now states that “only zoos, wildlife parks, circuses, breeding and research centers are entitled to keep wild or exotic animals.” Although zoos, circuses, and other institutions have been notorious for bad treatment of animals, the new law is still considered a huge victory for animal rights advocates.
The legislation will ensure swift action against civilians caught trading or harboring exotic species.
