How to Register a Drone in Dubai: Procedures and Requirements
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Why Do You Need a Drone License in Dubai?
National Security
Drones can be misused for anti-national activities such as surveillance, spying, and smuggling. A proper licensing system helps in monitoring and regulating drone usage
Public Safety
A Dubai drone permit ensures responsible handling of drones. It mitigates the risk of accidents and property damage in a densely populated city like Dubai. Authorities can easily track the parties responsible for potential loss or damage
Privacy Protection
The UAE drone laws greatly emphasize citizens’ personal and data privacy. Licensing helps to prevent unauthorized recording and photography using drones
Legal Compliance
Drone registration in Dubai ensures compliance with global aviation standards set by organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Adherence to these standards helps to maintain Dubai’s reputation as a global business & tourism hub
Drone Registration Requirements in Dubai
The drone registration requirements in the UAE are different for private and commercial users. The details are as follows:
Recreational or Private Users
Eligibility
Citizens or residents (i.e. individuals) must be at least 16 years of age to be eligible for drone registration in Dubai.
Documents Required
Copy of a valid Emirates ID
Proof of purchase or ownership of the drone
Drone details such as the serial number, model number, and weight in kilograms
Camera details such as the serial number and the model number (if the drone has a mounted camera)
A colored photograph of the drone
Commercial Users
Eligibility
Businesses seeking drone registration in the UAE must be legally registered entities in the UAE.
Documents Required
Complete details of the business organization
Passport numbers and Emirates IDs of all the personnel responsible for drone operations
Drone details such as the serial number, model number, and information about the manufacturer
Weight of the drone (in kilograms) with and without payload
Model and serial number of the camera (if applicable)
How to Register a Drone in Dubai?
1) Registration With the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
Visit the GCAA’s e-services portal and create an account
Select ‘Drone Registration Service’ and provide the required information about the drone
Upload the required documents and pay the registration fee. The registration certificate shall be issued after approval
2) Obtaining a NOC from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)
Drone operators in Dubai must also get clearance from the DCAA. The procedure is as follows:
Visit the DCAA’s Drone Portal
Apply for an NOC by providing details such as the purpose of use, area of operation, and GCAA registration certificate
Upload the supporting documents as required. The NOC shall be issued after approval
3) Registration for Commercial Use
The following additional licensing is required for operators who intend to use the drone for commercial purposes:
Remote Pilot License from the GCAA
Operating Certificate from the DCAA for commercial operations
Note: Drone users must follow the operational guidelines and fly only in designated areas. They must avoid restricted zones and also abide by the altitude limits and other safety regulations.
How Much Does it Cost to Register a Drone in Dubai?
AED 500 for government and commercial entities
AED 500 for a temporary commercial license
AED 100 for professionals, hobbyists, and tourists
AED 1,500 for an NOC to fly a drone once for commercial purposes
AED 3,000 to obtain a permit for aerial filming or advertising
Drone Laws in the UAE
Registration:
All drones must be registered with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) through their MyDroneHub platform
Operators must also register themselves as users
Licensing:
Recreational and commercial drone operators require a valid license from the GCAA or the respective local authority, such as the DCAA in Dubai
Flying Zones:
Drones can only be operated in approved fly zones, as outlined in the UAE’s airspace map available on the MyDroneHub app or DCAA’s platforms.
Flying near airports, military zones, residential areas, or other restricted areas is strictly prohibited.
Altitude Limits:
The maximum allowable altitude for drone operations is typically 400 feet above ground level unless special permissions are obtained
Privacy:
It is illegal to capture or distribute videos or photographs of individuals, private properties, or government facilities without explicit permission
Insurance:
Commercial drone operators may be required to have liability insurance coverage
Permitted Areas:
Recreational drone flights are restricted to designated areas such as parks or open spaces approved by the GCAA or local authorities
Line of Sight:
Drones must always be flown within the operator’s line of sight
No Night Flying:
Recreational drone flights are generally restricted to daylight hours
Special Permits:
Commercial operations, such as drone photography, delivery, or surveying, require special permits from the GCAA or the respective emirate’s aviation authority
Operational Requirements
Operators must comply with specific guidelines regarding safety, equipment, and air traffic regulations
Is it Worth Getting Drone Insurance?
Drone operations can result in mishaps, accidental injuries, and damage to other people’s property. This can result in legal claims and financial liabilities to the business. It is quite expensive to repair or replace sophisticated drones if they are lost or damaged during operations. Further, it is mandatory to insure commercial drones in the UAE. Hence, it is essential to get drone insurance to safeguard your business against potential losses, expenses, and liabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions on Drone Registration and Licensing
Is drone registration mandatory for all drones?
Yes. As per the UAE drone laws, registration is mandatory for both recreational and commercial drone users.
What are the penalties for flying a drone without a license?
Flying a drone without a license in the UAE can result in fines of up to AED 50,000, imprisonment for up to one year, and seizure of the equipment.
Is drone photography allowed in Dubai?
Yes. Drone photography is permitted in Dubai. However, drone operators must adhere to the rules & regulations of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).
Can tourists register drones for temporary use?
Yes. Tourists can register their drones with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). The registration fee is AED 120. New pilots must complete a basic RPAS training program at an authorized training center.
How long is the drone registration valid?
The drone registration in Dubai is typically valid for one year.
What is the fine for flying drones in unauthorized areas in Dubai?
Drone operators in Dubai can be fined up to AED 100,000 for flying drones in unauthorized areas. The fine amount depends on the nature of the violation. Serious violations can also attract imprisonment for up to three years.
Which drone does not require a license in Dubai?
No drones are exempted from licensing and registration requirements in Dubai. Both recreational and commercial drones must be registered with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
