UAE lifts drone ban: Here's how to get your drone licence and fly legally

Dubai: Flying a drone in the UAE comes with specific requirements and regulations. As of January 7, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other UAE authorities lifted the conditional ban on individual drone use. However, only UAE residents and citizens are permitted to fly drones, provided they are registered, approved by the GCAA, and hold a certified drone pilot training certificate.

To operate a drone, users must first create an account on the UAE Drone app or website(drones.gov.ae) and use the platform to submit flight requests for GCAA approval.

How to obtain a drone training certificate in the UAE

To operate a drone in the UAE, you must have a training certificate from a General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)-accredited centre. This certificate is essential for registering as a drone operator and signing up on the UAE Drone app or website.

Accredited training centres for drone operators in the UAE

The GCAA has authorised the following training centres to provide drone pilot certification:

1. Versa Aerospace

• Website: www.versa-aerospace.ae

• Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Asayl Racing & Equestrian Club

• Email: registration@versa-aerospace.com | infodesk@versa-aerospace.com

• Hotline: +971 2 246 4317

2. Melaaha Drones

• Location: Fujairah, Alhail Industrial Area

• Email: info@melaaha.ae

• Phones: 050 551 3035, 054 437 3796

3. Emirates Falcon Aeroclub

• Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain

• Email: info@emiratesfalcons.ae

• Phones: 03 7854 444, 054 326 2721

Registering as a individual drone operator in the UAE

After completing your training and acquiring your certificate, you can register as an individual drone operator via the UAE Drone app or website. Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Hold a valid training certificate from an accredited centre.

• Ensure your drone weighs no more than 5 kg.

• Comply with all GCAA regulations.

Costs involved

Once your profile is approved, you’ll receive an email to pay the registration fee:

• Operator registration fee: Dh100 (one-time).

• Drone registration fee: Dh200 for recreational use, renewable every two years.

Using the app, you must also register your drone and submit flight requests. Upon approval, payment instructions for drone registration will be sent via email.

Drone flying restrictions in the UAE

To ensure public safety and compliance with GCAA regulations, drones are prohibited from operating in the following areas:

• Near public or private property.

• Within 5 km of airports, heliports, airfields, or controlled zones.

Can I use my drone in Dubai?

Recreational drone use remains prohibited in Dubai and is still "under review," according to a recent announcement by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. This update from the emirate's aviation authority comes in the wake of a federal decision lifting a conditional ban on individual drone usage.