Dubai Airport Drone Rules: What You Need To Know

Drone laws in Dubai are subject to change and it's important to check multiple sources for the most up-to-date information. As of January 2025, drone use is allowed in Dubai, but there are strict regulations in place. Drone flights for hobbyists, commercial operators, and foreign visitors are allowed but temporarily suspended. Drone flights for government operators are permitted. All drone operators must adhere to the general drone laws in Dubai, which include maintaining a distance of at least 5 km from airports and respecting citizens' privacy.

Drone flights are allowed but temporarily suspended

Drone laws in Dubai are constantly changing, so it's important to check multiple sources for the most up-to-date information. As of November 25, 2024, hobbyist drone flights were allowed in Dubai but temporarily suspended. Here's what you need to know about drone flights in Dubai:

Hobbyist Drone Flights

Hobbyists are allowed to operate drones in Dubai, but there are several important regulations to keep in mind. Firstly, all hobbyist drone pilots must obtain a license or authorization and register their drones. While drone insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for hobbyists. Additionally, it's crucial to respect others' privacy and avoid flying over people or large crowds. Drones should be operated at a maximum height of 122 meters (400 feet) and kept within visual range at all times. For safety, maintain a distance of at least 8 kilometers from airports and 3 kilometers from heliports.

Commercial Drone Flights

Commercial drone flights in Dubai are also allowed but temporarily suspended. Commercial operators must obtain a drone pilot license and register their drones. Unlike hobbyists, commercial drone operators are required to have drone insurance. Similar regulations apply to both hobbyists and commercial operators, including maintaining a safe distance from airports and heliports, respecting privacy, and adhering to height and visual range limits.

Foreign Visitors Drone Flights

Foreign visitors are permitted to fly drones in Dubai, but these flights are also temporarily suspended. Interestingly, foreign visitors are not required to obtain a drone pilot license, but they must register their drones. Drone insurance is not mandatory but is recommended for visitors. As with other categories of drone operators, foreign visitors should follow the same safety guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and responsible drone flying experience.

Government Drone Flights

Government drone flights are allowed in Dubai, and a government drone pilot license is required. Drone registration is necessary for government operations, and insurance is not required. It is important to note that specific regulations and guidelines may apply to government drone operations, ensuring the safe and secure use of drones for official purposes.

It is crucial to stay informed about the latest drone laws and regulations in Dubai by referring to official sources and government websites. The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) are the regulatory bodies responsible for drone safety and can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Drone registration is required for hobbyists and commercial operators

Drone usage in Dubai is regulated by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). Both authorities have set out rules and regulations for drone usage in the city.

Drone Registration for Hobbyists

Hobbyists are required to register their drones in Dubai. The process for registering a drone as a hobbyist can be done via the official GCAA website or through the My Drone Hub smartphone application. The following documents are required to begin the registration process:

• Copy of a valid Emirates ID
• Drone model number
• Drone serial number
• Camera model and serial number (if the drone has a mounted camera)
• Weight of the drone in kilograms
• Coloured photo of the drone

Once all the documents are submitted, the GCAA will review the application. This process can take up to 5 working days or more. After the review, the applicant will receive their UAS/Drone Registration Certificate within 12 working days.

Drone Registration for Commercial Operators

Commercial operators are also required to register their drones in Dubai. The process for commercial registration differs slightly from that of hobbyists. Firstly, the operator must pass the UAS GCAA Exam. After passing the exam, the operator can then apply for the commercial drone licence. The following documents are required for the application:

• Details of the organisation requiring a drone for commercial use
• Emirates IDs of personnel responsible for handling and operating the drone
• Passport numbers of all responsible parties
• Serial number of the drone
• Manufacturer information
• Weight of the drone without and with payload
• Model number of the camera installed on the drone, if applicable

Once all the information is submitted and the application form is completed, the GCAA will provide the applicant with the GCAA Commercial Drone/UAS Certificate.

Additional Information

It is important to note that drone laws in Dubai are constantly changing, and it is recommended to verify the regulations using multiple sources. Additionally, drone usage is only permitted in certain flying zones, which can be found on the "My Drone Hub" mobile application or by downloading the GCAA map.

Drone insurance is recommended for hobbyists and required for commercial operators

Drone laws in Dubai are subject to change, and users are advised to contact the Civil Aviation Authority in Dubai directly with any questions. However, according to some sources, drone use is allowed in Dubai, but the exact laws are not yet specified.

Drone insurance is an important aspect of owning and operating a drone, and it is recommended for hobbyists and required for commercial operators. Here are some key points to consider regarding drone insurance:

Why Drone Insurance is Important:

Even the most skilled drone pilots can encounter technical malfunctions, sudden weather changes, or unexpected obstacles that lead to accidents. Drone insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection from these risks. It covers damage to your drone (hull insurance) and any harm caused to others or their property (third-party liability insurance).

Recommended for Hobbyists:

While drone insurance is not always mandatory for recreational drone pilots, it is highly recommended. In some regions, such as certain states in the US, insurance is required for hobbyists. Even if not legally required, drone insurance protects you from financial liability in case of accidents or damage to your drone.

Required for Commercial Operators:

Drone insurance is typically mandatory for commercial drone operations. It demonstrates professionalism and boosts your credibility, and ensures compliance with safety regulations. Commercial operators may be required to obtain specific types of insurance, such as liability insurance, to cover potential risks to people and property.

Types of Drone Insurance:

Drone insurance policies can be customized to meet specific needs. In addition to hull and liability insurance, you can also consider payload insurance (for special equipment like cameras), ground equipment insurance, personal injury insurance, and monthly or on-demand insurance for short-term use.

Cost of Drone Insurance:

The cost of drone insurance varies depending on factors such as the amount of liability coverage, the value of the drone and equipment, the purpose of use, and the geographical location. Liability insurance is usually the most expensive, with annual coverage ranging from $500 to $1,000 for $500,000 to $1 million in coverage.

Where to Buy Drone Insurance:

There are several drone insurance providers in the market, each offering different strengths and specialties. Some popular options include SkyWatch.AI, AirModo, Bullock Agency, Avion Insurance, State Farm Drone Insurance, and DJI Drone Insurance.

In summary, drone insurance is an essential consideration for any drone owner, especially those using drones for commercial purposes. It provides financial protection, demonstrates compliance with regulations, and ensures peace of mind while operating your drone.

Drone flights must not be within 5km of an airport's outer fence

Drone laws are constantly changing, so it's important to verify using multiple sources to be fully informed. Drone use is allowed in Dubai, but exact drone laws are not yet specified. It is recommended that you contact the Civil Aviation Authority in Dubai directly with any questions regarding drone operations in the country.

Drone operators should always be mindful of the following:

• Do not fly your drone over people or large crowds.
• Respect others' privacy when flying your drone.
• Do not fly your drone higher than 122 metres (400 feet).
• Stay at least 8 kilometres (5 miles) away from an airport and at least 3 kilometres (1.86 miles) away from heliports for safety.
• Only fly during daylight hours and in good weather conditions.
• Do not fly your drone in sensitive areas, including government or military facilities. The use of drones or camera drones in these areas is prohibited.

In addition to the above, the following rules apply to individuals or private or recreational users:

• Fly UAVs/drones weighing 5 kilograms or less and only in the approved flying zone indicated in the 'My Drone Hub' application (i.e. the green zone).
• Register the UAV with the GCAA before flying.
• Do not fly the UAV/drone within 5 kilometres of the UAE airports' outer fence, heliports, helicopter landing sites, airfields, and in controlled zones.
• Maintain direct radio control link with the UAV/drone.
• Maintain frequency band restrictions (29.7-47.0 MHz max power 10 mW, or 2400-2500 MHz max power 100 mW).
• Take into consideration the effects of the frequency used on radio communication.
• Avoid collisions of the UAVs/drones with people, objects, other manned and unmanned aircraft.
• Do not harass or endanger people or threaten to damage property.
• Be responsible for informing GCAA when you intend to resell the UAV/drone.
• Do not equip UAVs/drones with drop or release devices.
• Fly the UAV/drone within line-of-sight and not more than 400 feet above ground level.
• Use the camera only in the flying zones and comply with relevant laws on privacy.

Drone users must respect others' privacy

Drone use is allowed in Dubai, but drone laws are not yet fully specified. Drone users must adhere to certain rules and regulations, with a particular focus on respecting others' privacy.

Drone pilots must not fly their drones near public or private property. This means staying at least 5km away from UAE airports, heliports, helicopter landing sites, and airfields. It is also prohibited to fly drones over people or large crowds. Drone users must also ensure they do not harass or endanger people or threaten to damage property. These rules are in place to protect the privacy and safety of individuals and private property owners.

In addition, drone users must only fly during daylight hours and in good weather conditions. They should also maintain direct visual contact with their drone and keep it within a line of sight, no higher than 400 feet above the ground. This helps to ensure that drone users are aware of their surroundings and do not inadvertently invade others' privacy.

Drone users should also be mindful of camera usage. While cameras are permitted, users must comply with relevant laws on privacy. This includes not equipping drones with drop or release devices and respecting individuals' rights to privacy and data protection.

By following these guidelines, drone users can enjoy their hobby while respecting the privacy and safety of others. It is important to stay informed about drone laws and regulations, as they may change over time, and to contact the Civil Aviation Authority in Dubai for the most up-to-date information.

Frequently asked questions